On Monday, October 25, approximately 175 students gathered in McIntyre Lounge to give thanks. The event was not an early Thanksgiving dinner; it was the inaugural Scholarship Information Session Luncheon, where freshman, sophomores, juniors and seniors took the time to give thanks to those who have played a tremendous role in their success – the College’s scholarship donors.
Following remarks from representatives from the Office of Advancement and External Affairs as well as the Office of Financial Aid, students wrote thank you notes, expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to attend Saint Peter’s.
Some proudly proclaimed that due to scholarships and financial aid, they were the first in their families to attend college. Others expressed how grateful they were to have someone help alleviate a portion of their financial stresses. Many couldn’t believe all of the opportunities they were provided with at the College, thanks to the support of the donors.
Not only were the students grateful for the prospect of furthering their academic studies, they were appreciative of all of the co-educational programs that Saint Peter’s provides outside of the classroom, from volunteer and service projects, to organized clubs and activities, to internships with prominent, local companies.
Marc Percella ’12, an accounting major from Bayonne and recipient of the Charles A. and Joan Fiumefreddo Endowed Scholarship, strives to take advantage of each and every opportunity that the College provides. A member of the Accounting Society, Percella secured an internship with Siegel & Gluckman CPA, where he applies the knowledge that he learned in the classroom to everyday, real-life scenarios.
Amanda Maldonado ’13, a political science major from Bayonne and recipient of the Bastek Endowed Scholarship, is on her way to becoming an attorney. Enrolled in the pre-law program, Maldonado says the financial aid she received has helped her tremendously and that she is also eager to explore as many chances for enrichment as she can. A member of the College’s Model United Nations team, Maldonado was the only freshman to compete at the Model UN Conference in Boston last year. When she isn’t tutoring, she can be found working at the River School in downtown Jersey City.
Everyone had a different story to share in between writing their notes and lunching with fellow classmates, but one thing was certain: the young adults were incredibly thankful for the kindness of those that had walked the halls before them, and were eager to someday be as generous and selfless to future Peacocks. Based on this year’s success, organizers hope to turn the luncheon into an annual event.
For more information on how to fund a scholarship, contact the Office of Advancement and External Affairs, (201) 761-6114.