HHA, Class of 2019: Jacqueline Roldan

Hampstead Hill Academy, Class of 2019

Jacqueline “Jacky” Roldan, a proud graduate of Hampstead Hill Academy, is a shining example of what it means to be a BCP scholar, leader, and changemaker.  She credits HHA with helping her develop the confidence, leadership skills, and academic foundation that prepared her to excel in high school and pursue her passion for the culinary arts.

BCP School Experience

Jacky attended HHA from Pre-K through 8th grade, spending ten years as part of the school community. For Jacky, Hampstead Hill Academy was more than a school—it was a second home. During her ten years at HHA, she built lasting relationships with teachers, staff, and classmates while participating in programs such as Leaders Go Places (LGP), which helped prepare her for the academic and service-learning expectations she would encounter in high school and beyond.

High School Journey

Mergenthaler Vocational-Technical High School (Mervo), graduated Valedictorian of the Class of 2023.

As a Culinary Trades student, she combined academic excellence with leadership and community involvement. She served as Chair of Fundraising and Activities for the Student Government Association from 2021–2023 and participated in several enrichment programs, including Adelante Latina, the International Traveling Club, and Building Steps.

Her hard work and dedication resulted in perfect attendance throughout high school and approximately $500,000 in scholarship offers. In recognition of her achievements, she was selected as the 2023 commencement speaker for Hampstead Hill Academy’s closing ceremony.

College Journey

The Culinary Institute of America

Following graduation, Jacky enrolled at The Culinary Institute of America to pursue her passion for cooking and hospitality. While she was one of only five Baltimore City students selected to receive a full four-year scholarship to McDaniel College through the CollegeBound Foundation, she chose to follow her dream of building a career in the culinary arts.

Where They Are Now

Jacky is currently studying at The Culinary Institute of America, where she is building the skills and experience needed to turn her passion for cooking into a career. Her long-term goal is to become a restaurateur. She is excited by the opportunity to combine creativity, entrepreneurship, and culinary excellence while pursuing a profession that brings her joy.

Q: What is your favorite Hampstead Hill Academy memory?

Considering the amount of years I have spent at HHA, 10 years to be exact, I consider it my second home. Always feeling such delight whenever I see a familiar face from a teacher or staff member I had the opportunity to grow a connection with. 

I have made so many wonderful memories at HHA that it’s hard to pick just one favorite. I think from the great friendships I was able to make to the fun trips we took, my favorite memory has to be the annual HHA Nights. A night to enjoy with friends and families filled with tasty treats as well as fun games in order to win amazing prizes! I have yet to meet another person who has had an opportunity like this in their school and as an HHA graduate, it always has me coming back with my younger brother (who is also an HHA student).

Q: How did HHA and BCP prepare you for high school and beyond?

I want to thank the Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) for helping to create and grow the wonderful HHA community. I had the great fortune to be a part of. Like a domino effect, each is able to help push one another to a greater standard of success. Due to the Pre-K to 8th grade HHA curriculum, HHA’s unique Leaders Go Places (LGP), and the sound advice I had received, I felt more than prepared for Mervo. I knew not to let anyone or anything deter me from my path to excel and work hard. Thank you, HHA and BCP!  

Q: What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become a restaurateur. Throughout the years my love and passion for cooking has only grown, especially as I test out a different recipe. Having seen others create a living through culinary arts, it enticed me to do the same, because it’s what makes me happy. Ever since I’ve entered high school, my main focus has been on searching for any way to move me further along my career path. Hence, why I have chosen the schools that I did, always being able to pick up a new skill, opportunity, or learning experience.