The Newwave Foundation team is headed back to school! This week, we’re introducing you to Kayla Gauger, a Green Street Academy grad who is preparing for her first semester at McDaniel College! Kayla is one of our Newwave Foundation CollegeBound Scholars and we’re excited to share her story with you.

NWF: Hi Kayla, it’s great to talk with you! Can you share a little bit about how you’re doing these days in quarantine life?

Kayla: It’s honestly been draining to be in the house all the time. My parents have some health issues, so I run errands for them and help them get to the doctor. Otherwise, I have been staying safe at home.

NWF: Have you been able to stay in touch with your friends and family during this time?

Kayla: I’ve kept in touch with friends through Facetime. I’m talking a lot on the phone and it’s been nice to keep in contact with them.

NWF: How was your last semester of high school? What was your graduation process like this year?

Kayla: I was the valedictorian, so I got to stop in at school to record my speech. Because everything was virtual, it didn’t feel like a true graduation.

NWF: We’re sorry to hear that. We know its been a challenge for students and educators, and we want to let you know you’re doing a great job being flexible during this time. Can you tell us about what you’ll be studying at McDaniel this year?

Kayla: I’m majoring in criminal justice, but I’m also interested in psychology, so I declared a double major! I’m considering writing or women’s studies for a minor. All my classes will be online except for my first-year seminar.

NWF: What are you looking forward to most about college?

Kayla: I’m looking forward to being independent, the classes, and the flexibility of choosing your classes and working on your own pace.

NWF: Thank you so much for sharing with us, Kayla! Can you answer one last question? Just for fun, where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Kayla: In 10 years, I’ll be 27 so I will be done with school hopefully. I want to travel, I just don’t know where yet. I’d like to stay in an apartment and save up to buy a house. I’d also want to have a puppy – a golden doodle sounds adorable!

NWF: We love it! Thanks again Kayla. Best wishes for your first semester! We can’t wait to hear all your updates.

Interested in sharing your story with us? We’d love to connect! Visit our volunteer page or email us at info@newwave-foundation.org and a team member will be in touch!