Spencer Gonce

For Howard Community College (HCC) business administration major and honors student Spencer Gonce, receiving a scholarship through The Rouse Company Foundation has provided more than financial support—it has given him the freedom to focus on his education.

“The scholarship helped because I didn’t have to think about the cost of college so much,” said Gonce. “I could focus on just going to school.”

Gonce began his academic journey at HCC as a dual enrollment student, taking an online business course while still in high school. Inspired by a family background rooted in finance and economics, he decided to pursue business administration with the goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

“My mom is an accountant, and my dad works in economics,” said Gonce. “I thought, well, they like it.”

His decision to apply for the James W. Rouse Scholars Program was influenced by his older brother, Kyle, an HCC alumnus and former Rouse Scholar.

“My brother Kyle thought it was a great program,” said Gonce. “So, I did my own research, applied, and got in.”

Established in 1992, the Rouse Scholars Program was designed for high school seniors who can commit to two years at HCC. With a cohort of other Rouse Scholars, students progress through a four-semester sequence of seminars emphasizing academic research, civic and community engagement, and leadership development. Students also work closely with dedicated advisors and participate in specialized courses designed to challenge and inspire them.

“The Rouse Scholars Program has introduced me to other students to expand my network, is educating me about the history of Columbia and James Rouse himself, and helping me to build leadership and career skills,” said Gonce.

As part of the honors experience, Gonce will soon begin a year-long honors Capstone project. He also interned with the Columbia Maryland Archives Summer Field School, which offers students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in public history and access the abundance of information about the community that Rouse created. Looking ahead, Gonce plans to transfer to the University of Maryland, College Park, where he will continue pursuing his goal of becoming a CPA.

“I am happy that I did apply [for the Rouse Scholars Program],” said Gonce. “It’s a good path where you learn a lot.”