Class of 2026: Sabina Alvarez Prats

Nervous, yet excited for the new challenges that I was about to face. I knew nobody and was starting a new life here. However, I was ready to make connections and learn a new culture.

Incredibly proud and grateful for all the opportunities McDaniel has provided me. I’m leaving this campus with lifelong friendships and an amazing education that’s going to further my career.

I successfully completed a television production internship at the Community Media Center in Carroll County, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience. I was able to see and learn from industry experts and witness media being created. There I worked with two alumni who were helpful and essential parts of my learning journey. They took their valuable time to explain everything in detail and were happy to answer any of my questions. It was an extremely welcoming experience. I also completed an American Sign Language internship at McDaniel College as a lab assistant. I helped students practice their signs and plan activities for class. It was encouraging to see students become more comfortable and confident with their signing throughout the semester.

McDaniel College allowed me to become a good leader. I realized that I don’t have to be perfect and that leadership comes in many forms.

As the first person who’s going to graduate from the women’s wrestling team, I hope my fellow teammates can always remember me as someone who was committed to supporting a growing sport. I also founded the MC Cinema Club in the spring of my sophomore year and helped rebuild the Terror TV Club. I would love to see those clubs and teams keep growing since they mean so much to me.

During my time here, I had many amazing professors and faculty who influenced my learning journey. My Cinema professor, Jonathan Slade ’88, was one of the first people to believe in me while I was here. He introduced me to the world of cinema and taught me everything I know. He showed me the meaning of film and how it can significantly share stories.

I didn’t expect to meet so many individuals with so many different interests. The variety of majors and clubs provides spaces for people from all walks of life. I still talk to people I met my freshman year because of those club-organized events that brought people together.

I love hanging out in the television production studio. This is where many MC Cinema and Terror TV club-related events happen and where I took my all-time favorite class. I was also a teaching assistant in this room, so it holds a special place in my heart. That place gives me a sense of calmness and tranquility.

As simple as it sounds, I learned that everyone has different journeys and that life is not always linear. It’s OK to not do great on a test, it’s OK to relax and work on yourself, and it’s OK to not know what you want in the future, because college is a great place for growth and self-discovery.

“Thank you, America!” and “Puerto Rican Sign Language: The History of a Small Powerful Island”

I completed a 25-minute documentary regarding immigration and the culture shock people face when moving to the United States. I also wanted to focus on my island’s history and decided to explore and discuss the use of Puerto Rican Sign Language and how the language is endangered.

After graduating, I plan on working in both of my fields and expanding my career.

McDaniel College was my first experience living in the continental United States, so it will always hold such a special place in my heart. I got to meet many amazing individuals whom I plan on staying connected with.

Financial aid allowed me to enroll into McDaniel College. Growing up, I had always wanted to move to the United States. Getting this economic support allowed me to move and pursue both of my interests at the same time while removing the financial burden.