Markese Lewis

What brought you to the Pivot Program?

I was actually enrolled in college before my incarceration and was studying business management. When I was young, I always wanted to have my own business. Growing up, it didn’t matter what it was, I just knew at a young age I wanted to work for myself. It’s been a few years since I’ve been in a curriculum setting, but when I heard about the Pivot Program, it really seemed like something I would be interested in. I’m here to gain all the knowledge, resources, and skill sets that I need to be successful, whether I choose to go the corporate route or the entrepreneurship route. I also felt like being a returning citizen, there’s so much negativity attached to your name from your background. And I feel like having Georgetown’s name attached to this program is changing that. It’s definitely a privilege and honor to be here. 

How did it feel to start the program?

I was so excited. It’s a new opportunity, and I’m very privileged to be here because I know that a lot of people applied or were trying to get into the program. And so many others could have been selected or chosen. But the fact that I was chosen, it really meant a lot. I’m still just as excited as I was the first day.

What are your interests outside of the classroom?

In my free time, I love spending time with my family and friends and enjoying the city. I love to cook as well.