Hey everyone! My name is Juanita Benavides-Alcala, and I am a senior in the Elementary Education/Special Education program at Towson University at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG). I first found out about USG in 11th grade, when I came to a Young Professionals Conference that was held here on campus. I remember attending a variety of information sessions and different events, which started my love for this campus. My love for teaching, however, started in preschool and has only grown since then.

I am a product of Montgomery County Public Schools, and after graduating from Gaithersburg High School I went to Montgomery College. I ended up receiving the Clifford and Camille Kendall Endowed Scholarship. It is full tuition paid for two years at MC, and two years at USG. After applying to my program and being accepted at Towson, I was excited to start my journey! I find new things to fall in love with at USG everyday. From my classes, to student life, to leadership opportunities, there is always something to look forward to during the week. I am a part of the Towson Council for Exceptional Children. I was also a USG Student Ambassador, a student blogger and a student worker for the Center for Student Engagement and Financial Resources. I wear many hats here at USG, and enjoy doing so.

In the future, aside from convincing the world to come to USG, I want to become the Secretary of Education for the United States Department of Education. Among my lengthy agenda I have mapped out, I plan to support schools like USG, which provide so many opportunities with so many benefits.

Hope to see you on campus soon!

I find new things to fall in love with at USG everyday. From my classes, to student life, to leadership opportunities, there is always something to look forward to during the week. I am a part of the Towson Council for Exceptional Children. I was also a USG Student Ambassador, a student blogger and a student worker for the Center for Student Engagement and Financial Resources. I wear many hats here at USG, and enjoy doing so.
Juanita Benavides-Alcala