USI Foundation

I will always remember how I felt when I learned I had been awarded a Presidential Scholarship. Let me tell you the story.

Four years ago I was sitting in Steak n’ Shake with friends when my mom phoned to tell me that USI had just called offering me a Presidential Scholarship. I was so excited I couldn’t sit still, much to the dismay of the lady in the booth next to mine! Although I was happy and filled with gratitude at that moment, it cannot compare to what I feel today - four years later.

Because of the Presidential Scholarship – because of your generosity as donors, I have met great professors and had wonderful opportunities for enriching employment and campus activities. I have also been able to explore my strengths and interests to decide which profession to pursue.

During my four years at USI, I have met fascinating people and been given marvelous educational opportunities because of my donor’s generosity. I have not only enjoyed meeting my fellow Presidential Scholars, but I have also had the privilege to know some of the most talented professors in the world. They have supported me tirelessly as I have explored the academic opportunities here.

In my journey from the College of Education to the College of Businessand back again, the faculty and staff at this University have continually shown me, through their commitment to students, that this University is an exceptional place to live and work.

With their dedicated teaching they have pushed me to grow, and have introduced me to work opportunities which have allowed me to explore professions that interest me.

Because of the Presidential Scholarship, I was able to focus on being involved in college and finding out what I wanted to study. Because of the Presidential Scholarship, I was able to participate in campus organizations such as Student Ambassadors and the Honors Program, as well as work as a Spanish tutor.

Professors here not only helped me find this opportunity, but they have also encouraged me to work in a summer day camp with young students; to explore Human Resources at the Toyota plant; and to become a substitute teacher in area high schools.

I have learned so much more than what can be found in textbooks—I have learned to communicate with new people and evaluate my performance and skills in a wide range of employment scenarios and ultimately decide what I am best and happiest at doing.

I am not the only student here today who is thankful for the opportunities this prestigious scholarship has provided. On behalf of Presidential Scholars past, present and future, I thank all of you here present and I thank all of our donors who cannot be here today. I thank you for the gift of an excellent University education.

I thank you for a wonderful University experience. And perhaps most important of all, I thank you for giving me and my fellow scholars the excellent example of how essential it is to give back. We too, will someday imitate your example by helping others take part in the rich “legacy of learning” we have gained here at USI.

Just as I can never forget how valuable these four years have been for me, I hope each one of you generous donors will always remember how your support helps us to succeed, and that we are eternally grateful for your gift to us – the greatest gift a person can receive – an excellent education.

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