FROM WEST BALTIMORE

From navigating the challenges of growing up in West Baltimore to being a first-generation college student and earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princaya Sanders and her journey are testaments to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and perseverance. Through the UMB CURE Scholars Program, she found the support, experiences, and encouragement needed to overcome obstacles, pursue her passion for helping others, and inspire the next generation to believe that their future has no limits.

I went on to do some of the stuff that my bullies will never do. Opening cadavers, graduating college... If they're watching so sorry but it's just the truth.

Princaya

"First Gen: From West Baltimore" continues the journey that began seven years ago focusing on five teens in middle school. Now young adults, they continue to defy the obstacles of poverty and stereotypes. With high school diplomas and a fear of the unknown, this year they enter a world of competitive high stakes to make their dreams of college and professional degrees a reality.

I promised myself that education is first. I will be able to help the next generation of students in my family who want to go to college.

Princaya

In 12th grade, academic pressure intensifies along with the challenge of college applications. Not able to afford college tuition or housing, they must also navigate the complex world of financial aid. By the spring of senior year, they celebrate their many acceptances.

But putting together the financial packages necessary for full funding is the greatest barrier to achieving their college dream. Remembering the inspiring words of Ray Lewis, they continue the journey.

We got a deal. We're finishing this race, right?

Ray Lewis

10th grade, a year of extraordinary achievement, suddenly crashes in March 2020 with pandemic upheaval. The isolation of virtual learning and lack of resources in their community intensifies the trauma. Messages of hate and racism accelerate with the killing of George Floyd, fueling their fear of police.

Encouraging them to pursue their college dream, Wes Moore inspires them to continue their quest.

Anyone who tells you the journey is easy, is not telling you the truth, but just know the journey is not yours to make alone.

Wes Moore

Determined to succeed, Princaya, Shakeer, Davioin, Tyler and Courtney are excited to be accepted at the most prestigious public high schools. Competing with Baltimore’s best, challenged as never before, they realize each grade counts not only for high school, but also for college.

On a special trip to Annapolis, they are inspired by a visit with Maryland State Senator Jill Carter.

You may not always win... but you can push a little further in the right direction.

Jill Carter

8th grade is a year of incredible pressure. To be accepted at one of the few highly competitive college preparatory high schools in Baltimore, they must get very high scores on a city mandated standardized test. And now as young teens, they begin to realize the racial stereotypes that define youth in their neighborhoods.

They made us to where we don’t even like ourselves.

Tyler

In middle school, Princaya, Davioin, Courtney, Tyler and Shakeer already have dreams for a better future. Unaware of the many barriers to success plaguing their community, they focus on education to take them to the world they want.

I believe the world doesn’t control what you do, you determine what you want to do.

Davioin