Biosketch
- Name: Deaondre Gabriel Vidal
- College: Kennedy College of Sciences
- Major: Computer Science
- Hometown: Lynn, Massachusetts
- Favorite hobbies: Collecting cool pencils, creating video games
- What is your favorite thing about UMass Lowell (UML)? UML offers a diverse community of students that I was accustomed to back in my hometown. This diversity allows you to learn a lot outside of the classroom with every interaction you have. I am grateful to go to a school that keeps this community alive and well.
- What are your future goals? I want to pursue cyber security and hopefully one day create a mobile adventure video game. I also have a passion for mathematics.
- What has being involved with the RHSA meant to you? It has given me the insight that I needed to be successful throughout my first year in college. I am a person who likes to have as much information as possible when diving into a new chapter of my life. Being a part of RHSA has given me the opportunity to gain as much information as I could in order to navigate the university. I have also developed great friendships within the program.
- Looking back, what advice would you give to yourself in your first year of college? I would recommend being more involved with school, I would also tell myself to prioritize scheduling. My first year was a bit hectic since I didn’t have a great sense of organization. My second year I was able to take some initiative and improve this skill.
- What advice would you give fellow students? I would recommend that students take any opportunities offered to them. Opportunities have been the reason for my success throughout my first year at UML. They have been the reason why I have found my passion in mathematics and continue to pursue a career where I can apply that knowledge.
- Why did you choose to attend UMass Lowell? I chose UMass Lowell in order to be close to family. My plan for my life has been to establish a good foundation while having my family close.
- What does it mean to you to be a first-generation college student:? To me, being a first-generation college student is a privilege that I can participate in and an opportunity to make my family proud.
- What inspires you to want to help first-generation students in the RHSA? Without RHSA, I would’ve never found my calling in mathematics. To repay them for the kindness they have given me, I have taken this role to support their success for the years I am at UMass Lowell. Peer/Team leaders help in this process by giving you early exposure, which I believe is crucial for establishing a comfortable transition into your first year of university.