Emily Crespo came to UML for its affordability – and for the River Hawk Scholars Academy, now a supportive community for first-year, first-generation college students.

Inspired by a summer program, Carolina Reyes is determined to become an English teacher at Lawrence High School.

Tim Murphy says his experiences at UMass Lowell have increased his confidence along with his expertise.

Brigid Archibald always wanted to be a superhero. Now the editor of the student newspaper, The Connector, she sees journalists as today’s heroes.

Kylie Letendre, who struggled in school due to ADHD, wants to help children with learning disabilities.

After switching from mechanical engineering to English, Troy Lafond uses his writing skills to excel with two student organizations.

Michelle Garcia, a rising spoken word poet, is also learning how to write poetry for the page.

Edward Morante says his studies in education and English, and his participation in the DifferenceMaker program, are preparing him to teach children of all ages.

Fahad Alden says college is about finding where your passions and skills align.

David Rosario says his professors help him to stay focused and motivated.

Melisa Hussain’s experience as a visibly Muslim teenager inspired her honors thesis.

Roberto Rivera combined a B.A. in English literature and Spanish and Italian with a master’s degree in education to become an ESL teacher in the Lawrence schools.

Tariq Brathwaite’s superpowers — creativity and work ethic — have already taken him farther than he dreamed possible.

Taylor Carito signed up to work on The Connector, the student newspaper, at the beginning of freshman year. Now she’s editor-in-chief, and her involvement has shaped her college experience.

One faculty member opened a door for Adeja Crearer, and it changed her life.

Emmy Misail won an Honors College creativity fellowship to draw comic strips under the guidance of an art professor.