Attending: Bloomsburg University
Award Use: Tuition
Travel Stipend Use: Travel between home and college (multiple trips)

Symone is intent on putting herself and her younger brothers on a different path than the one they’ve traveled so far.

Symone moved to Philadelphia from California when she was in elementary school and started positioning herself for college right away. She played a caretaking role for herself and her brothers while also seeking opportunities with National Honor Society, student council, and various girls’ leadership programs, finding a home with Philadelphia’s Camp Sojourner, where she progressed from camper to counselor to office intern.

Sports were always an important outlet for Symone, but one she limited to ensure she pulled in top grades during senior year and still had time to work and help cover her family’s bills. She's excited to pick up sports again at Bloomsburg and knows her Girls with Grit peer mentor will help her navigate the delicate balance of performing well academically and athletically. Symone also welcomes the advice of her Girls with Grit adult mentor as she becomes the first in her family to attend college.