Sophomore year has been full of a wonderful mix of coming back to a group of old friends and communities on campus while also incorporating new faces and activities into my life here. I have had a rigorous and rewarding semester of classes which have shaped my decision to double major in community health and psychology. I am very excited about my future course of studies and look forward to combining these two majors to study my interest in mental health in marginalized communities. Outside of academics I have taken full advantage of Tufts’ outdoors club and enjoyed hiking the beautiful New England fall in the White Mountains during many weekends. I am excited to return to the mountains next semester covered in snow! I also have loved continuing to play on the club ultimate frisbee team and volunteering in a cognitive neuroscience lab on campus. I am so grateful for this opportunity to learn with wonderful and inspiring professors and classmates who exposed me to new ideas and challenge me every day. Thank you MVYouth for your generosity and for making my college experience possible. I can’t wait to see what the next two years have in store!
Madeleine Moore - University of Chicago
My past year at the University of Chicago has been thrilling. Over the summer, I was granted the opportunity to travel to China. I stayed in Chengdu and Beijing for a month and worked as the Director-General of a camp dedicated to teaching middle and high school students about Model UN and the skills involved. Once returning home, I worked as a news intern for the MV Times. Back at school, I have continued to pursue a degree in Economics and a minor in History. This quarter, I was able to take a class called the Economics of Crime, taught by Steven Levitt, author of Freakonomics. It was the most interesting and engaging class I have taken. With the help and encouragement of MVYouth, I have been given so many wonderful travel and learning experiences. I cannot wait to see what the next year has in store!
Charles Parkhurst - UCLA
I’m more than halfway done with college! Never have two years of my life flown by so quickly. Despite my many wonderful experiences making the time feel shockingly short, I’m thrilled to think I’ll have a degree from UCLA in just a year and a half. Being an upperclassman, I am able to choose classes from a diverse array of topics in political science that are directly related to current global issues. Classes examining the international politics surrounding nuclear theory and analyzing the international relations of China kept me thoroughly engaged this year. Even better will be next quarter as I begin studying for the entrepreneurship minor. Taking courses such as Marketing Principles for Entrepreneurs and Technological Commercialization makes me actually look forward to the hours of schoolwork ahead. As far as the road beyond UCLA, I’m genuinely interested in going into politics, I’m prepping for the LSAT, and I also have a passion for trading futures so I may not be fully decided, but it’s certainly not due to a lack of interest or options. I’m excited and grateful for each and every avenue MVYouth has made possible for me to pursue through their amazing efforts and generosity.
Anne Ollen - Barnard College
This fall I was fortunate enough to spend the semester studying at New York University’s campus in Accra, Ghana. There I took classes with some of Ghana’s best professors in the fields of African history, sociology, literature, and psychology. I also had the opportunity to take a traditional drumming class at the University of Ghana where I learned to play music from the Ga and Ewe people of southeastern Ghana. Studying in Accra allowed me to challenge my prior understandings of the legacies of slavery and colonialism in West Africa, and learn more about how Ghana’s identity as a post-colonial nation effects its socio-political climate today. In addition to taking classes, I volunteered at B.A.S.I.C.S. International, which is an after-school program, in a fishing village near Accra, that provides academic assistance and social services to children of the community. There I got to learn more about certain challenges facing the Ghanaian school system, and how NGOs like B.A.S.I.C.S. are working to alleviate these issues. This semester was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed me to live a new country, learn about a different culture, and meet lots of amazing people. I would never have gotten this opportunity if it was not for the support and generosity of MVYouth. I am so grateful!
Marlla Lemos - UMASS, Boston
This past semester at UMass Boston has been full of exciting experiences and opportunities. Attending a University that is so close to the heart of Boston allows for classes to extend beyond the four walls of the classroom and into the city. My English class ventured into the historic city on a hill and explored places such as The Boston Athenaeum, Museum of Fine Arts, and Mapparium. If it weren’t for this English class I would not have gotten to know Boston as well as I do now and been introduced to resources such as The Boston Public Library, where I now spend many afternoons preparing for my classes. Living near Boston has also allowed me to broaden my perspective on life and society beyond the Island which is incredibly valuable, since growing up on the Island led to a relatively sheltered childhood. All of the opportunities I now have within my University are possible thanks to the MVYouth scholarship. This scholarship has allowed me to attend a University that challenges me intellectually, while also presenting opportunities to grow as an individual in a diverse environment where there is much to be learned from my peers and the city nearby.
Samantha Hargy - George Washington University
My first year at The George Washington University has been full of crazy ups and downs. Moving from Martha’s Vineyard to a bustling city was difficult, but I have had some amazing experiences in DC. I was standing outside the White House when the results to one of the most historic presidential elections were announced. I watched comedian Seth Meyers live during his first ever shows in DC, scored tickets to the National Christmas Tree Lighting, and traveled to the Library of Congress to fulfill an assignment. In my classes, we had the opportunity to see some outstanding speakers, such as Senator Bernie Sanders and National Security Council Press Spokesperson Emily Horne. My professors are ambassadors and authors and qualified beyond belief. I would not have had these opportunities if not for the generosity of MVYouth and I will be forever grateful that you all have allowed me to go to my dream school in the heart of our nation. I can't wait to see what the next three years have in store for me.
Chris Aring - Olin College
My first semester at Olin College of Engineering has been one of the more life changing experiences in my life. All of my assignments were based on team projects and team building exercises which helped make me a better team player and more aware of how other people work. I think it is important to work on projects with groups and not individually because the real world is not about isolation and solo work; the real world is about working with others, sharing ideas, and making connections. I have already met and worked with students who have worked for various companies like Google, Microsoft, SpaceX, and many more. Many of these students are only sophomores and got their job offers from the career fair here each semester. At the career fair, companies show up and students get to walk around and meet with actual engineers from each company. I met with a few businesses and ended up being asked by the members at the Boston Scientific booth to apply for a Co-Op or internship. I decided to hold off on the offer because I wanted to get my first year under my belt before taking a semester long break. It was a great experience that I don't think I could have gotten anywhere else. Being given the opportunity as a first year student to talk with head engineers from Microsoft, Google and other companies is something I don't think many kids get at other schools and it motivates me to work even harder.
Casey McAndrews - Hamilton College
Life at Hamilton continues to be new and exciting every day. Because of the open curriculum, I’m taking the courses that really interest and challenge me. Everyone here is kind and hardworking and it feels so rewarding to be able to be part of this community. I joined the club soccer team at the beginning of the semester and that has been one of the highlights of my college experience so far. There’s no better way to end a day of classes and studying than playing soccer with some of my closest friends. I was also excited to be recently accepted into the Hamilton Reads program for next semester, in which I will be a reading tutor for a second or third grader from a local elementary school twice a week. Thank you MVYouth for this scholarship and for allowing me to attend my dream school. I will be forever grateful as I move through these next four years.
Olivia Jacobs - Hamilton College
It is hard to put all of my thoughts and feelings regarding my first semester at Hamilton College into words, but I will do my best! My classes last semester greatly inspired me. I was assigned at least 100 pages of reading every weeknight, but the hours spent pouring over books were well worth it. My eyes have been opened to the vast world around me. I now understand, with clenched fists, America’s system of mass incarceration and the horrifying realities occurring inside American prisons; I have delved into religious studies, exploring Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Mormonism; I have studied the history of discrimination driven by concepts of race and gender; I have read about the evolution of the American public education system. Aside from academia, I’m interning at a local middle and high school, working in the counseling office and running girls empowerment groups. Working with the kids is the highlight of my week. I am also in the Hamilton Equestrian Club, riding twice a week and loving it. The College has so much to offer, and there is never a day when I feel bored or restless. Hamilton has truly become my home, and I cannot thank MVYouth enough for allowing me to attend such a remarkable school.
Kaela Vecchia-Zeitz - New York University
I always knew I loved visiting New York City as a kid, and living here for the past five months has solidified that love within me. During the week I spend many hours in NYU’s gorgeous Bobst Library where I travel up to the 8th floor study room and look out onto the sprawling city scape - the Washington Square Arch, Chrysler building, and Empire State building all within view. I also volunteer at the Hebrew Union College soup kitchen, just a couple blocks from campus and help with the publishing of the Minetta Review, one of NYU’s literary magazines. NYU’s Silver School of Social Work has been a warm and welcoming community that I’m so honored to be a part of. Along with the amazing resources NYU offers, I’ve also explored the amazing resources of the city - some of my favorites being trips to the MET, a Claudia Rankine reading, and seeing the play Party People at the Public Theatre. I never imagined that NYU would be such a perfect fit for my education. And there is no way I would’ve found that out without the immense generosity of MVYouth. Thank you.
Anne Ollen - Barnard College
I had another wonderful semester this fall! Sophomore year has proven to be challenging as my classes have become increasingly rigorous. Yet, I am continually amazed by the programs, the professors, and my peers at Barnard. The opportunities that the college and city have provided to me are incredible. Studying at Barnard and living in New York City is a dream come true! This spring I am declaring my major to be Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies. I am also planning to study abroad next fall in Accra, Ghana. I’m excited to travel to another country to pursue my degree and immerse myself in another culture. I’ve had an amazing experience in college thus far, and I am eager to see what my future holds at Barnard and abroad. Thank you again for your continued support!
Lee Faraca - Cal Poly
I'm greatly indebted to MVYouth, and I honestly don't know what I would do without it. The engineers at Cal Poly have a saying "Friends, grades, or sleep... choose 2". While it's a joke, there's an element of truth to it. The financial aid I've received makes college a lot less stressful and lot more enjoyable. Instead of needing a part time job, I can explore different clubs and focus on school. I'm working with the club "Engineers Without Borders". We're designing and installing a water sanitation and transportation system for a village in Nicaragua. It's a really fun experience, learning the design process and aspects of building, all of which will benefit those in need. On the weekends, there are plenty of National Parks to explore and soccer games to be played. Academically, this year is dedicated to the math and physics behind engineering. I still have absolutely no idea what an Eigenvector is (or how to cook something besides pasta), but I'm super excited to continue my college experience, made possible by MVYouth.
Galya Walt - Tufts University
During my first semester, Tufts has proven itself to be the right school for me. Everyday my classes, friends and student groups at Tufts affirm my decision to become part of the Tufts community. Tufts thrives off the constant support students give to each other. I am strongly encouraged to try new things, which has caused me to join ultimate frisbee, take a class on Zen Buddhism and apply for lab positions as a freshman. Though I am in the library often, I truly enjoy almost all my readings and assignments. My professors this semester created engaging and challenging environments that I was excited to be a part of. After this semester, I am planning on majoring in biopsychology, and I am looking forward to exploring that field further. The process of finding a new community and interests has been very exciting, and I feel so grateful for the opportunity to be doing that at Tufts.
Madeleine Moore - University of Chicago
My past year at the University of Chicago has been thrilling. Over the summer, I was granted a scholarship from my school to travel to Cuba to improve my Spanish and learn about the culture. I lived in a small apartment in a residential neighborhood of Havana, known as Vedado. Each day in Havana brought new adventures from mastering public transportation, taking salsa classes, walking into a celebration of Carnival, and discussing the politics and economics of Cuba with my neighbors. Cuba is a rapidly changing country that I highly recommend visiting. This academic year I have been able to dive deeper into my major of Economics, which never ceases to amaze and challenge me. In addition to classes, I have continued to participate in the Model United Nations Club. This year, I was granted the opportunity to run two committees, one based in Brazil in 2014 and the other in China in 1912. Overall, my experience with the University of Chicago has been delightful and has provided me with so many opportunities. I am grateful for MVYouth and their generous support of my education.
Charles Parkhurst - UCLA
What a tremendous year it’s been for me here in Los Angeles. It’s impossible to detail all of the virtues of this amazing journey - a journey that I never would have gotten to experience had it not been for the efforts and generosity of MVYouth. I’ve just recently wrapped up fall quarter for my second time. Although living in my fraternity and taking an extra class made for a busy few months, I managed to tackle each one while also waking up at six in the morning or earlier on a regular basis to trade on the stock market. I may just be in my second year, but I’m already sad thinking that I’m a third of the way through my time here. In little over a year I’ve formed lifelong friendships, studied with world class professors, and grown astoundingly in capability and self reliance. Looking back on life altering experiences, there is nothing more wonderful to happen to me than receiving this support from MVYouth. Thank you!
Anne Ollen - Barnard College
My first few months at Barnard have flown by, but I have already experienced so much. My academic classes are challenging but rewarding. Everyday I learn a great deal from my professors and peers. Since arriving I have joined a youth-mentor group, the Columbia Against Cancer Society, and the Committee for Student Life at Barnard. These groups have allowed me to actively engage with my new community. Life in New York has given me a variety of new opportunities. I have attended a UN Committee Panel, a TED talk, a fashion show, and even a few Broadway shows. I am excited to see what the next three years have in store for me. As a result of my scholarship, I can take advantage of every opportunity without the worry of debt. I am so grateful to be attending my dream school and to be living in this amazing city!
Lee Faraca - Cal Poly
First and foremost, let me thank you again for your generosity. Transitioning from 18 years in a small community to a 20,000+ college across the States has been a huge change. There’s some adjustment, but I’m meeting new people and experiencing so much. Engineering is a lot more work than I thought it would be. Cal Poly’s motto is “learn by doing”, and they focus heavily on concepts and hands on learning. Yesterday I did some engineering surveying in a cow pasture, which was a nice break from hours of calculus homework. And yes, engineers do have social lives. The week is busy: class, homework, and a little pick up soccer, but the weekends are open for trips to Yosemite, Avila Beach, and LA. All of this has been possible because of MVYouth, an organization I’m deeply grateful for and indebted to.
Galya Walt - Tufts University
This year I decided to take a gap year to study in Jerusalem before attending Tufts University. I am part of a program of 39 American and Israeli teenagers studying, volunteering and interning together. Each day here reaffirms my decision to take time to develop my interests before diving into college life. I have been studying Jewish philosophy and texts alongside a wide range of people who constantly force me to question my own ideas and truths. Twice a week I volunteer with Eritrean refugees at an after school program. We are building personal bonds with them and it feels good to be a steady force in their lives. I am so grateful to MVYouth for giving me the opportunity to spend time learning about myself, my culture and my interests so I will be more mature and ready to fully seize my college experience next fall when my scholarship officially begins.
Madeleine Moore - University of Chicago
Each day invites a new adventure. Currently, I am enrolled in four different classes. In one of my classes we are discussing Bhagavad Gita, which is a portion of text from the Mahabharata touching on the role of dharma, knowledge, and death in one’s life. This discussion, with only the students and the professor, was the most powerful, confusing, and influential discussion I have ever been a part of. Not only is the University of Chicago incredible, but the city of Chicago is full of opportunity. Museums, architecture, waterfronts, pizza three inches tall, and giant sculptures of food are just a few things you can find on a casual stroll along the streets of Chicago. MVYouth has allowed me to focus all my energy into my classes without having to worry about getting a job or paying the bill each quarter. I am receiving an incredible education and exploring a fantastic city thanks to MVYouth.
Charles Parkhurst - UCLA
UCLA really is the dream school that I imagined it to be. Traveling three thousand miles from home into the college world has been my greatest step yet towards true adulthood. Now, only a few months in, I have already had so many amazing experiences. Studying with world class professors, pledging the fraternity of Beta Theta Pi, and learning to live and manage all my responsibilities has already been quite the exciting journey. The rigorous academic workload and competition, made more difficult by some of my own medical complications, has been stressful and formidable at times, but has been a great success so far. The challenge is motivating and rewarding. I’m extremely excited for the future and immensely grateful for the opportunity that MVYouth has given me to spend the next four years at such an astounding institution.