Get to Know Forman Scholar Sairis Jimenez!

Sairis Jimenez cares deeply about the health and well-being of her hometown community, and by studying environmental science at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, she hopes to gain the skills necessary to ensure Salem’s continued conservation. Learn more about Sairis and the plans she has for her college career.

Why did you decide to study environmental science?

I’ve noticed my community suffering from water quality issues for years, and this urgent environmental challenge encouraged me to pursue a future career in water conservation. After I receive my degree, I want to make a difference in this world by working with communities to improve their water quality and pursue solutions for the other environmental issues that negatively impact them. Hopefully, I’ll have an opportunity to give back to Salem because my hometown has been instrumental in forming me into the student and future leader I am. 

What is your favorite memory from your time in high school?

I remember being in my sophomore year chemistry class and working on an experiment with two of my classmates who I had never spoken with before. I ended up forming two of my greatest friendships through this assignment.

What does pursuing higher education mean to you?

The college experience is important because, for one thing, it enables students to build relationships with a diverse range of people who they might otherwise never have met. College also serves as a vital link to future careers by connecting students with mentors, opportunities, real-world experiences – and potentially even future colleagues. You never know whose path you’ll cross even years after graduation.

What are you hoping to gain from the college experience?

Through my time at Rowan, I’m looking forward to meeting new friends, strengthening my independence and gaining practical knowledge I can use to jumpstart my future career.

How has the Forman Acton Foundation contributed to your growth as a person and as a student?

The Foundation has been indispensable as I navigate the transition from high school to college. Among other things, I’ve been challenged to enhance my communication skills and come out of my shell a bit more. It’s been such a blessing to have the opportunity to focus first and foremost on my education without having to worry about the cost of college or the prospect of figuring out college alone.