Statement of Purpose

November 18, 2020

“Seek respect, not attention. It lasts longer. -Ziad Abdelnour”

Throughout my life building strong and deep connections with people has been something that is very important to me. I strive to exhibit empathy and compassion in all of my relationships because these two traits are what build trust between individuals. As a student in the public leadership scholars program, and as a part of the University of Maryland community, my goal is to learn how to approach diverse groups of people and situations with an open mind and a helping heart. I hope to earn respect in my communities not only as a leader, but as a friend to anyone who needs me. In high school I tried to be a leader in the smaller communities that I was a part of. My school had well over 3000 students, but as captain of the track team and President of the chamber choir I brought people with common interests together and worked to create a safe space for people to be their truest selves. I feel like I am my truest self when I am helping others and setting a positive example, which is a huge reason I came to UMD and scholars. I loved the idea of connecting with students at a large school, but also having the tight knit community of a living and learning program. Being a positive person and building strong relationships with other students here at UMD are my main goals for my next two years in scholars and four years in school.