When Binta Balde discovered the opportunities that awaited her at The University of Toledo, applying and choosing the University was a no-brainer.
While exploring her college and career options, Balde was set on working in the medical field but unsure of her perfect path to get there.
“At first, I wanted to be a pediatric doctor, then I thought about being an ER doctor,” Balde said. “I realized that nurses are the ones that are closest to the patients, and I always wanted to be on my feet.”
Binta Balde, a first-year student from Columbus, was selected as one of three students for UToledo’s Presidential Scholarship, which covers the cost of tuition, room and board and offers a stipend for a summer experience.
Balde, a first-year student from Columbus, chose UToledo for the prestigious nursing program.
“I wanted to go to a school where they took nursing classes seriously,” Balde said. “And I saw that UToledo was one of the top programs in Ohio.”
She also was selected as one of three students for UToledo’s Presidential Scholarship, which covers the cost of tuition, room and board and offers a stipend for a summer experience.
Balde started her Rocket experience early, moving in a week before the rest of the incoming class through the Black and Latino Student Excellence Transition Program, which helps students start their college career successfully, along with getting to know other Honors and Presidential Scholars students.
“So far, I have met a lot of the older Presidential Scholars. They have given us great advice, and Dean Appel has been there to make sure everything is OK,” Balde said.
Dr. Heidi Appel, dean of the Jesup Scott Honors College praises Balde for her passion to help others in the community, now and in her future career.
“Binta is a powerful combination of heart and mind with an activist’s passion for social justice,” Appel said. “It’s a balance we hope all of our students achieve through our community-engaged curriculum.”
Although she’s only in her first year as a Rocket, Balde is looking forward to starting her nursing career in either pediatrics, trauma or cardiac care.
“I really feel comfortable here,” Balde said. “I know I have a place here because of the Presidential Scholars.”
