Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal: Palmarin, Jorge

Talent Merit Scholarship Recipient

My name is Jorge Palmarin, but most people call me JJ. I grew up in Hyde Park/Mattapan, and I’ve lived there my whole life. Where I’m from has shaped me in many ways, not just because of where I live, but also because of the community I grew up in. I went to a few schools in Boston before I found the one that challenged me the most while also feeling like a place I fit in, which was Boston Trinity Academy. Growing up there from 7th to 12th grade is where I built friendships, found role models, and faced challenges that pushed me to grow. The environment my parents raised me in gave me both pride in who I am and motivation to figure out who I want to be in life.

I am Puerto Rican, and my heritage plays a big role in my identity. I see it in the traditions my family follows, the food we cook at home, and the holidays we celebrate together. Even simple things, like spending time with relatives or hearing stories about past generations, connect me to my background. My heritage gives me a sense of belonging and reminds me that I am part of something larger than just myself. It’s something I carry with me and hope to pass on in my own way as I get older. My family is made up of my mom and dad, my grandparents, my aunts and uncles, and lots of cousins. These are the people who have had the biggest impact on my life. They’ve taught me lessons about responsibility, hard work, and staying close to the people who care about you. At the same time, they’ve supported me in school, in sports, and in everything I’ve tried to do. Even though every family has ups and downs, mine has always been the group I know I can count on. Looking at my background, I know that where I come from, my heritage, and my family have all shaped the person I am today.

I decided to enroll at UMass Dartmouth because it felt like the right fit for me. The College Now program really seemed like it would help me get a head start on college and feel more confident about the transition from high school, which it has. I also liked that the campus is small, and the class sizes are smaller, which makes it easier to build connections with professors and classmates. The location is convenient too, since I can stay close to home while still having the space to grow independently and experience college life on my own.
 
I am studying business with a focus on finance because I’ve always been interested in how money works and how businesses make decisions. My plan is to do well in my classes and maintain around a 3.0 GPA while also growing as a person. I want to become more responsible, confident, and independent during my time here. I also hope to take advantage of opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, whether that is through clubs, networking, or other experiences that can help me figure out what I enjoy and what I want to do in the future.

Even though I’m not completely sure what career path I want to follow after college, I see my time at UMass Dartmouth as a chance to explore different options and discover what I’m passionate about. I want to make the most of the smaller campus and supportive environment by asking questions, seeking guidance from professors, and learning as much as I can. By focusing on my studies, personal growth, and exploration of different paths, I hope to be prepared for the opportunities and challenges that will come after graduation.

I want to use my education in business and finance to make a difference not only for the people around me, but also on a larger scale. I’ve been given so many opportunities and support from the communities I’ve been part of, and giving back feels like the least I can do. Whether it is through donations, supporting local programs, or helping businesses grow, I want to use what I learn to create opportunities for others and help them make smart financial choices. I hope that even small actions can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

My time at UMass Dartmouth will also help me grow in many ways, personally, mentally, and academically. The skills I learn in finance, combined with the experiences I have here, will give me the tools to make a positive impact not only locally, but potentially globally. I want to find ways to help people succeed, whether that is by teaching financial literacy, supporting small businesses, or contributing to causes that improve communities around the world. By learning and growing myself, I can better understand how to help others and make decisions that have a real impact.

Even though I’m not completely sure what career path I’ll take, I see my education as a way to give back and make a lasting mark on the world. Using the knowledge and opportunities I gain at UMass Dartmouth, I hope to help family, support local communities, and even reach people farther away who could benefit from financial guidance or support. I believe that by focusing on both personal growth and helping others, I can make a difference and leave a positive impact on the world.