Julia Bonfrisco

Julia Bonfrisco’s journey at the University of Maryland has been one of discovery, growth, and resilience. As a first-generation college student from a single-parent household, the path to higher education was not always clear, but it has been incredibly rewarding. Coming from a background where higher education was a distant dream, stepping onto the UMD campus was a moment of triumph not just for Julia, but for her entire family.

At UMD, Julia has pursued a double major in Kinesiology and Psychology, driven by a deep passion for understanding the connection between physical and mental health. The university's dynamic environment has allowed her to delve into these fields, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience that have shaped her academic and career goals. Julia’s role as a Student Administrative Assistant in the Department of Kinesiology has given her the opportunity to support fellow students and engage closely with faculty, deepening her understanding of the academic landscape and honing her organizational and communication skills.  Beyond academics, joining Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. has given Julia a strong sense of community and belonging. Through this sisterhood, Julia has developed leadership skills and contributed to initiatives that uplift the Latinx community on campus, including serving on the sorority's leadership team as academic chair and chapter recruitment and retention chair. These experiences have been deeply fulfilling, and she is proud to be part of a collective effort to make a difference.

Balancing work, studies, and extracurricular commitments has been challenging, but it has taught Julia invaluable lessons in time management, resilience, and the importance of community support. Her experience at Maryland has not only equipped Julia with the knowledge and skills needed for her future career but has also instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility to give back and pave the way for others who, like Julia, are navigating the complexities of higher education for the first time. UMD has been a place of growth, not just academically, but personally, and Julia is proud to be part of UMD’s vibrant and diverse community.