BIOGRAPHY

Hi! My name is Rose Mascarenhas and I am a sophomore studying agricultural and biological engineering. I'm passionate about sustainability, music, and reading. I enjoy playing my clarinet in various music ensembles on campus and participating in environmental organizations. Recently I've gotten more into doing all types of physical activity, from biking to resistance training to swimming, and my love to stay active is what initially sparked my interest in Illini4000. I'm excited about the idea of pushing myself past my limits this summer and working with the team towards an important goal.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I spent a lot of time biking this summer and was looking to continue ways to do that on campus when I heard about Illini4000. It's super cool to bike across the country and I was planning on applying anyways, but what inspired me most was when I learned about their mission and the Portraits Project. Listening to and sharing other people's stories in the face of a problem that friends, families, and communities have to struggle through for long periods of time can provide the emotional support that gets people through tough times. I hope what we do here makes a difference in people's lives, and I'm excited to ride for such an important cause!