Truesdale DREAM Scholarship Recipients Taking Advantage of Their RIT Experience

Thriving.

That’s the best word to sum up the status of Truesdale DREAM Charter School Scholarship recipients Deon Jeffrey BS ’26, Victor Sanchez BS ’26, and Abdul Macauley BS ’26. Now second-year students with several accomplishments under their belts, these young men share that they have much to be grateful for and many future aspirations. All three students look forward to staying involved with their community on campus, conquering challenging coursework, and moving toward their career goals.

Deon, who studies packaging engineering, says that one major personal achievement this year compared to last is developing time management skills. “I feel that I am managing my time more effectively--between classwork, extracurricular activities, and working at my job.” He enjoys his classes, goes to the gym on campus in his free time, and intends to complete two co-ops while at RIT. Deon hopes to find work in Rochester and stay local after graduating.

Like Deon, Victor explains that he has acclimated to planning ahead and allotting his time appropriately. “Being in Rochester and college is a big change for me from living in New York City. I have more independence now. I’ve learned that I need to take more time for myself and plan to finish my coursework early to enjoy more activities on campus.” Victor likes to play guitar, play Frisbee with his friends, and anticipates trying out for RIT Rowing next year. One of his biggest achievements last year was passing a very difficult class he was worried about. Upon graduating from RIT, he intends to complete a master’s degree in psychology and pursue his passion for helping others as a counselor or therapist.

As a biomedical sciences major, Abdul is making strides toward his goal of attending accelerated nursing school. “I’m trying to get more experience for my resume, including working on projects and research, so that I have a better chance at securing internships,” he shares. Abdul’s hobbies include playing basketball and participating with RIT’s Unity House. He also recently obtained his driver’s license, which he is very excited about.

Deon, Victor, and Abdul convey gratitude for their scholarship awards and for receiving an RIT education. They express how the move from New York City to Western New York was eye-opening to them, helping provide exposure to new environments and the chance to garner new life skills. Critical to their first year was involvement in the DDI Summer Experience program as well the tutoring support that continues to be a crucial resource.

“The tutoring has helped me understand my courses. I feel like I have a professor I can contact whenever needed,” says Victor.

“You have to make the best of what you have. I try to keep an open mind and take every opportunity presented to me. Getting the chance to get a good education and have good people around allows you to better yourself,” Abdul comments.

“Scholarship support is very important as a first-generation college student,” adds Deon. “I’m grateful for the chance to better my life. Thank you!”

Don, your heartfelt gift to establish the Truesdale DREAM Charter School Scholarship makes a life-changing impact on the lives of the student recipients every day. Your selfless generosity—and, further, your tireless leadership at RIT—is something to celebrate. Thank you for all you do to support students on their educational journey and for helping guide the university in our mission to shape the future and improve the world through creativity and innovation.