Scholar, Advocate, Future CFO with Kayleah

Transcript

When looking for a college, I wasn’t just looking for a degree. I was looking for a place where I could grow, find my voice, and truly belong. For me, that place is the University of the District of Columbia. I’m an international student from Jamaica, majoring in accounting and finance, and I first heard about UDC through people from my hometown who were already here.

Hearing their stories made it feel real. This wasn’t just another school, it was part of a community I could be a part of. Then my twin sister was recruited by the track and field team, and that really solidified my decision. When I first arrived, what really stood out to me was the people. The staff didn’t just guide me academically, they poured into me.

As someone who was naturally introverted, I didn’t always feel comfortable speaking up, but at UDC, I was encouraged, supported, and challenged to step outside the box. In this close-knit community, I felt safe enough to be bold. That led me to student government, first serving as secretary and now as USG president.

I also serve as vice president of the Caribbean Student Association and was selected as a HBCU White House Scholar. UDC didn’t just give me opportunities, it helped me believe I was worthy of them. What makes UDC different is how connected everything feels. Your professors know you, your peers support you, and your growth actually matters.

It’s a place where you can step into leadership and build relationships that shape your future. After graduation, I plan to sit for the CPA and become a tax consultant at a Big Four accounting firm. UDC didn’t just give me education, it gave me confidence, purpose, and a direction.