"Looking back at the past four years, I see myself as an individual who has learned to take chances, ask questions, and always be a part of something bigger than oneself. UMBC has instilled these very principles into my life by giving me the opportunity to delve deeper into community service and academic research."
Plans: Statistics Research Assistant
Magna Cum Laude
B.A., Political Science; B.A., Economics; B.A. Global Studies
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland
Mbalou has gained significant social science research experience in her time at UMBC, while also prioritizing her commitments to community service and civic engagement. She has worked with the Refugee Youth Project as a volunteer, student intern, and coordinator for several years. She has also served as a tutor with the Learning Resources Center and Cristo Rey Jesuit High School Mentoring Program. She was recognized for her work in the community with a Jacqueline C. Hrabowski Scholarship and France-Merrick Scholarship. A McNair Scholar, Mbalou researched political economics in Argentina and presented her work at Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD), which has inspired her to continue exploring global problems.