Class of 2022: Dominique Henriques Melo

Dominique is a quiet powerhouse, intelligent and empathetic leader, and exceptionally engaged community member. During the past four years, she has made significant contributions to many communities at UMBC and beyond. Dominique served on the Sondheim Steering Committee, collaborating to plan the annual retreat and social activities for her fellow Sondheim Scholars. She was an active participant and leader in UMBC’s Center for Democracy and Civic Life, where she served as an intern, led an Alternative Spring Break program about immigrant health equity, and participated in the STRiVE leadership retreat. Dominique served with the Esperanza Center all four years of UMBC, first as an ESL teacher and later as a health clinic volunteer. Dominique’s dedication to academic excellence led her to become a URA Scholar, an LSAMP Scholar, a research assistant in the Social Determinants of Health Lab, and a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Semi-Finalist. After graduation, Dominique will work for Centro Sol, a program in Baltimore City that connects Latino youth with mental healthcare, apply to medical school, and pursue a career in equitable medicine.

A few thoughts from Dominique on her time as a Sondheim Scholar: 

What are you most proud of from your time at UMBC?

I am most proud of learning the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone to try out new experiences.

What is your most memorable public service experience as a Sondheim Scholar?

Teaching English at the Esperanza Center as my freshman year service learning opened so many doors for me in my college experience. I ended up volunteering with them all 4 years and I met other organizations that work with immigrants through them, one of which I will be working with full-time next year.

What was your favorite Sondheim event?

My favorite Sondheim event was the first retreat in 2019. Being together for 3 days with fellow scholars created a close bond between us that we still carry with us even 3 years later.