My name is Maria Domenique Margaret Mary Lorenzo (oh yeah, it’s a mouth full) and I was born in Brooklyn, NY. I moved to Levittown on Long Island when I was a toddler, so I am not really a city girl just yet. I grew up in a very close, Italian-American, family. My mother is a very strong influence in my life. She taught me to love myself no matter what and to never lose faith. She never expected me to be the perfect student, athlete, or person, and I believe the laid back attitude is what actually allowed me to succeed… on my own terms. I was captain of my varisity lacrosse team two years in a row, I have been working for two years now, and graduated 3rd in my class all because I wanted to; no one else was putting pressure on me. With the support of my family, friends, and boyfriend I really found myself in high school. I learned to be independent, yet accepting of others into my world.

I expect college to be rewarding in a lot of aspects. I will gain an even greater education than prior, I will make new friends who share their own unique stories and backgrounds, and I will further develop myself as a person. I hope to maintain a high GPA and decide on my major, as well as explore the beautiful city I can now call my second home.  I’m still getting accustomed to the new routine, but I am staying optimistic.

Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes,you can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own, and you know what you know, and you are the guy who’ll decide where to go. – Dr. Seuss