A Bowie State University senior hopes to break barriers in the design industry upon graduation in May.
Mardline Cade Prevot is an advertising design student at Bowie State and a Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) program participant and scholarship recipient. A first-generation college student, Prevot intends to break barriers in the design industry as a Black, queer creator and entrepreneur.
“TMCF has been an invaluable asset in my academic journey, providing essential support and opportunities for growth,” Prevot said. “My involvement began with the Invest in Your Next workshop during my freshman year, marking the start of a transformative relationship with the organization.”
Since then, Prevot said TMCF has “offered programs and experiences that have honed my skills, expanded my professional network, and boosted my confidence.”
Leadership Institute, Prevot said, was a pivotal moment.
“I was immersed in an environment of inspiration and empowerment,” Prevot said. “Networking with accomplished individuals and exploring diverse perspectives ignited my passion for leadership and broadened my horizons.”
Prevot later attended the Molson Coors Innovation Challenge, further developing an entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving abilities.
The Pitch in 2024 was Prevot’s culminating TMCF experience, however.
“The intensive program, featuring mentorship from industry leaders, equipped me with invaluable tools for corporate leadership,” Prevot said. “The competitive selection process and rigorous curriculum solidified my belief in TMCF’s commitment to student success.”
While professional development through TMCF is a big part of Prevot’s journey, it’s not all. Prevot also received the BlackRock Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year.
“It has significantly alleviated the financial burden associated with higher education, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and extracurricular pursuits,” Prevot said.
Personal growth has also been an added benefit of Prevot’s participation in TMCF activities.
“Through participation in its programs, I have experienced a significant enhancement of my communication and interpersonal skills, essential competencies for success in a corporate environment,” Prevot said. “The knowledge and experiences gained extend far beyond traditional classroom learning, equipping me with practical skills to navigate the complexities of the professional world.”
TMCF has helped Prevot skill up before entering the workforce in May.
“TMCF has been instrumental in my academic journey, not only through financial support but also through mentorship and guidance,” Prevot said. “The organization’s unwavering advocacy for students has motivated me to strive for academic excellence and to give back to my community upon graduation.”
