Lawrence Caldwell

“I have come to understand that the key to overcoming a troubled past is realizing that one has the ability to direct the course of one's future, apart from one's own life circumstances.”

  • Program: 2010 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
  • Hometown: Germantown, MD

Biography

 

PROFILE: There are several “non-traditional” students in the 2010 Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship class. Most of these Scholars delayed college for a while and some are in their 40s and 50s. Lawrence Caldwell certainly qualified: he graduated from Montgomery College in suburban Washington, DC before he even possessed a high school diploma. Lawrence quit high school four years ago, was living on his own and taking care of his younger brother. While working a full-time job, he heard about the “Gateway to College” program offered by Montgomery College to high school drop-outs. The innovative program provided Lawrence the opportunity to simultaneously earn high school and college credits. He graduated with honors from college in mid-May and less than two weeks later picked up his high school diploma. 

INSPIRATION: The most influential person throughout Lawrence’s life has been his personal mentor, Joe Wilson. Joe always believed that Lawrence is capable of accomplishing great things and has done what is necessary to help him overcome struggles throughout his life. Joe challenged him to look within himself and act on his values before making any decision. Lawrence finds that he is most often proud of the decisions that he makes because of this advice. Joe continues to be an important person in Lawrence’s life and Lawrence believes that his continuing success is in part a result of Joe’s endless support. Lawrence is also thankful for everyone at Montgomery College who stood by him during his time at the school and who helped steer him toward the Foundation. 

ASPIRATION: Lawrence’s first stop in his career journey will be at George Washington University where he will seek a degree in both philosophy and psychology. Eventually, Lawrence hopes to attend law school and become a lawyer. 

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: For the past 18 months, Lawrence has worked full-time for Maryland Choices, a non-profit where he serves as a Program Support Specialist. There he manages student attendance, conducts community provider surveys, collects student behavior reports from public schools, and organizes community workshops. He worked 40 hours-per-week and still managed to take a full course load at Montgomery College and fulfill requirements for his high school degree.

ACCOLADES: Lawrence is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, was named to the Renaissance Scholars Honors Program, was a Dean’s List student, was awarded the Hispanic Student Academic Award, and graduated from Montgomery College with honors.
 
INTERESTING FACT: Lawrence earned a college degree before he earned his high school diploma. In addition to his work and school responsibilities, Lawrence also has the responsibility of being his younger brother’s legal guardian.
 
 

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