One of the three Second Generation Scholars chats about the importance of family and academics.
What is your name, major and year?
My name is Bria Hamlet. I am a senior who is majoring in health administration and public policy.
Where are you from (city, county, state)?
I am originally from Towson in Baltimore County, Md.
Who do you admire and why?
I admire my mom because of all that she has accomplished in a short period of time. She finished her Master’s in Social Work with a husband, two kids and a baby on the way. Almost 20 years later, she continues to make me feel like anything is possible.
What is your career goal?
I hope to be a manager for health communications. It would be a dream come true for me.
If you could change one thing around the world, what would it be?
I think the lack of patience in the world is incredibly troubling; I want to see more people slow down and take the time to understand those around them. I want them to make real connections. That is what I would change.
What do you like most about UMBC?
UMBC students are bright. We are proud of the fact that we are all very intelligent people.
What activities do you participate in on campus?
I have been a Peer Health Educator for the past two years, and I am currently the president of the Women of Color Coalition.
Who is the celebrity you would like to meet; what would you do with him/her?
I would love to meet Viola Davis of How to Get Away with Murder. She is phenomenal, and I would love to get sushi or authentic Italian food with her (those are my personal favorites). I cannot act, but I admire those who can.
What is/are your favorite thing(s) to do outside of UMBC?
I really enjoy yoga, blogging and trying new restaurants. I like to keep quite a low profile.
Where do you want to spend your next vacation?
I would love to visit Madrid, Spain for a summer. Latin culture is very fascinating to me and I want to witness it for myself.
What is your favorite genre of television (comedy, competition, reality, etc.) and why?
I am a huge fan of competitive shows that showcase artsy talents, like baking or fashion. I love to see people get creative and express their passions. I also enjoy classic comedies because they always make me laugh, even if I have the whole episode committed to memory.
What kind of music do you like?
I am very into alternative music. I like thoughtful lyrics and soulful beats. I want a song to inspire me.
If you met Dr. Hrabowski (UMBC President), what would you say to him?
Thank you for paving the way for young Black students at UMBC. I am proud to represent this institution. I would also ask him what he foresees in the future of UMBC.
Tell of your recent reaction to the Second Generation Scholarship during the W.E.B. DuBois Distinguished Lecture Series and how it impacted you and your family.
Winning the Second Generation Scholarship was a huge surprise. My parents are incredibly proud of me; they tell me often that I am much more ambitious and progressive than they were at my age. I appreciate having both financial and academic support from the UMBC community. I hope I am a good representation of a student who is aware, active and awesome at tackling issues of cultural competency at UMBC.
