2017 Graduate, Maci Senior, talks BDS and life after high school.

Current School and Major?

Howard University, Major: Criminology, Minor: Spanish

Of all the schools in Baltimore, what attracted you to BDS?

I came to BDS in 7th grade, the first year the school opened. I wanted to be a fashion designer and I didn’t want to go a regular school because I couldn’t pursue my passion at a regular school.

Once I started exploring the three pathways, I was attracted to graphic design. I was interested in lettering and typography, more than drawing and sketching in the fashion department. Besides my interest in graphic design, my teachers had become my best friends and I had become best friends with other students at BDS. There were a lot of things I couldn’t do or get at a regular school, such as the resources that were offered at BDS. There are quality art supplies and the technology is very advanced.

What did you love most about being a student at BDS?

The resources and the relationships… The atmosphere. It’s artistic, fun and informal. Everybody there is different, so you’re just comfortable with being yourself.

What college or career aspirations did you have after you graduating from BDS?

I plan to go to law school – Howard Law. After that I am trying to join the FBI. I want to work to end sex trafficking. I’ve always been interested in working in the sex trafficking field because I love Law & Order SVU and saw stories on the show often.

What advice would you give to our current students?

1. When it comes to arguments and drama – it’s not that deep. That stuff isn’t as important as it seems.
2. Work your hardest. Applying to college is so serious. Average is just not enough.

Do you feel that BDS was instrumental in helping you achieve your goals for the future?

Definitely. I definitely know myself and I’m more comfortable with who I am, expressing what I have to say and articulating myself to others. BDS opens your eyes and widens your perspective.