From Aberdeen, Maryland, is Maxwell Scholar Salome Tembo. She is a freshman biochemistry student who decided to attend PUC because of its quality education at an affordable cost, which was a major factor for her. Since being at PUC, Salome has loved being surrounded by a diverse group of people. “It’s inspiring to learn from different perspectives and experiences,” she shared.

What does it mean to you to be one of PUC’s Maxwell Scholars?

Being a Maxwell Scholar is a validation of the hard work I put in throughout high school. It’s an honor that shows my efforts didn’t go unnoticed.

How do you balance school and social life?

I’m still figuring it out, but what helps me is planning my day by writing everything down and being realistic about what I can accomplish. It’s all about finding a balance that works for me.

What responsibilities come with being a Maxwell Scholar? How do you handle them?

My main responsibility is to maintain strong grades. For me, this requires discipline and keeping God at the center of everything. With Him, I feel empowered to achieve my goals.

How do you get out of a funk when you’re not motivated?

When I lack motivation, I remind myself why I’m here—the sacrifices my family and I have made—and I turn to prayer for strength and clarity.

What kind of support do you receive from faculty and staff?

While I haven’t had many personal interactions with faculty yet, they’ve been very approachable and available, not just for academic support but also for building meaningful connections.

What do you appreciate most about your department?

I really value how collaborative everyone is. Since many of us are pursuing similar goals, there’s a sense of community and mutual support that helps us all grow.

When you’re not studying, what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy going to the gym, listening to music, and catching up on sleep.

What advice do you have for high school students considering PUC?

Come with a clear plan for your goals, but stay open to new experiences. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, and make the most of every opportunity you have.