Jorge Cantaderio

What made you decide to attend the University of Maryland?
I fell in love with the University of Maryland campus many years ago when I took a field trip in elementary school. I remember walking along the campus feeling like I belonged. I couldn't imagine ever being a college student, especially being first-generation. Just standing on the campus motivated me to work hard so one day I'd be able to call myself a Terp. The University of Maryland had everything I was looking for. It allows for me to stay close to home, but also have the space to learn independence. After visiting the campus many times after my field trip, I knew the University of Maryland was the institution for me.

What major/career path do you plan on pursuing and how did you select that path?
I plan to major in architecture to hopefully one day become a licensed architect. I also plan to minor in real estate development to help me be a better architect. I decided to pursue a career as an architect because I've always enjoyed the process of design. I've always enjoyed exploring my creativity through various STEM courses. I've been surrounded by it, whether it was at home as my dad discussed his experience at work as a construction worker or at my school in class. I ended up in architecture because it allowed me to design spaces in which I felt comfortable and free. I want to be able to provide that same feeling to others. Through my work as an architect, I want to help underserved communities.

What clubs, community service, campus activities, or hobbies are you currently involved in or plan to take part in?
I am a freshman, however, I have already begun to find clubs and organizations I'm interested in. I plan to take part in the Boxing Club as it's an activity I've always been interested in but never knew where to start. I hope to learn the basics of boxing and it'll help me stay healthy and in shape. I'm also interested in joining Latino leadership organizations like the Association of Latino Professionals for America. I am open to learning about different organizations and clubs.

How has receiving this scholarship positively impacted your life?
As I was applying to college, the daunting thought of not being able to afford to go never left. At some points, it demotivated me to continue applying. I knew I had to keep on pushing through because I had worked very hard. After getting into the Incentive Awards and Maryland Promise programs, all I could feel was relief. I felt as if a weight had been lifted off of me. I will be the first in my family to attend college and on a full-ride scholarship. I showed my family and friends that anything is possible through hard work and determination. I will now have a chance at college. I look forward to all the opportunities and growth from this scholarship.

What are your future goals after graduation?
After I leave the University of Maryland, I hope to have secured a job in my desired field as an architect. Through my work, I want to be able to help underserved communities all over the world. I also would love to learn new skills and information, so I'd consider going to graduate school. I want to continue to learn more in life, not just facts but the stories of other people. I would also love to stay in contact with the University of Maryland to help bring opportunities and resources to future generations of students.