Congratulations to all our First-Generation College Student Graduates! 

In honor of December graduation, we'd like to introduce a few of our first-gen grads, in their own words: 

My name is Madhia Zaidi. I am graduating with a B.A. in Biological Sciences. I went to Howard Community College before UMBC. I was attracted to UMBC based primarily on the academic reputation for my major as well as knowing several others from my high school whom I respected attending here ahead of me. This university has a very strong school of sciences, and I wanted to study under the best minds in the country.

The people that supported me while I was at UMBC were my family and friends. They helped me stay focused on my goals and supported me throughout my time at UMBC. I specifically want to mention my mother who stood next to me and pushed me to achieve my goals meanwhile she takes care of my kids relentlessly. 

I would say the experiences that helped me prepare for my goals after UMBC would be the lab classes and certain classes I took the last couple of semesters. They provided some hands-on experience that I feel is essential for acquiring a good job and help me grow as a person.

After graduating from UMBC, I plan on applying to physician assistant school. I’m going to shadow some doctors and get some working experience before I apply so I’m better prepared for the next chapter of my life.

This picture is me with my daughter. She is my strength and because of my children I want to be successful and achieve my goals so one day they are proud of me. I read it somewhere “success is a journey not a destination” and absolutely love this quote.