We are continuing our graduation spotlights today with the man, the myth, the legend: Joshua Budram!
Last month, Josh graduated from Prince George’s Community College with his A.S. in Engineering. However, that’s not the end of his postsecondary education journey! In the fall, he will be attending A. James Clark School of Engineering where he will pursue a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and a minor in technological entrepreneurship and corporate innovation. We reached out to learn more about his academic accomplishments and what earning this degree means to him:
What does it mean to you to earn this degree/certification?
Earning my associate’s degree in engineering represents far more than an academic milestone. It stands as a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and the belief that anything is possible. Growing up in a small and underserved town in Jamaica, the odds were not in my favor. Yet this achievement proves that with determination, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose, it is possible to rise above difficult circumstances and carve out a future of your own making.
This accomplishment is not just a personal victory. It is a source of inspiration and guidance for others, especially the younger members of my family. It allows me to be a visible example for my nieces, cousins, and those who look up to me. I want them to see what can be achieved when you commit to your goals and believe in your potential. Through my experience, I aim to show them that their dreams are valid and within reach, no matter where they begin. I am dedicated to offering support, sharing what I have learned, and encouraging them to pursue their own paths with confidence and courage.
What role did PeerForward play in seeing your through your postsecondary education journey?
PeerForward played a pivotal role in shaping my postsecondary journey. Coming from a background where college felt out of reach because of the financial burden, the program helped me see beyond my immediate circumstances and believe in the power of education to transform my future. It equipped me with the tools, mentorship, and confidence needed to navigate the college process and inspired me to become a leader and motivator among my peers. Because of PeerForward, I did not just find a path forward, I helped others find theirs too.
How did your friends/peers influence, inspire, or motivate you to achieve your educational goals? How did you do the same for others?
My friends and peers played a powerful role in motivating me to reach my educational goals. Watching them overcome obstacles with determination reminded me that success is possible even when the odds are stacked against you. But at the heart of my drive was my family, especially my mother and sister, who constantly reminded me of my potential and encouraged me to never give up. Their unwavering belief in me became my foundation. In turn, I made it a point to pour that same encouragement into others. Whether by sharing resources, offering guidance, or simply leading by example, I worked to show my peers that their dreams were valid and achievable too.
What was the biggest obstacle to your postsecondary education and how did you overcome it?
The greatest obstacle in my postsecondary education was the financial burden. Tuition, books, and living expenses added up quickly and made the path to a degree feel uncertain. To overcome this, I took initiative by expanding my network, connecting with mentors, and being proactive in applying for every scholarship opportunity I could find. I stayed committed, organized, and open to guidance, and through that persistence, I was able to secure the support I needed to continue my education.
Why do you choose to serve as a PeerForward Alumni?
I choose to serve as a PeerForward Alumni because I know firsthand how powerful guidance, encouragement, and representation can be in a student’s life. Being able to walk alongside students as they discover their potential, set goals, and take ownership of their futures is incredibly meaningful to me. Sharing my story is not just about reflecting on where I have been. It is about using my journey to inspire hope and possibility in others. I believe that when students see someone who looks like them, who has faced similar challenges and persevered, it can ignite something powerful. Serving in this role allows me to give back to a community that once poured into me, and it reminds me every day why access and support matter.
