At Loyola, learning means more than just good grades, or memorizing that mitrochondria is the powerhouse of the cell. The continuous dialogue between the teachers and students fosters true understanding. Over these past 4 years I haven’t just internalized historical facts and math identities, Loyola has also taught me how to learn. An essential part of learning is understanding the purpose and context of the material, and the Loyola community strives to apply this understanding to all aspects of student life. Inside and outside of the classroom I have learned to foster my gifts, talents and experiences, and use them to grow together, serve others, and fulfill my true potential.

I have finally completed my college search, and after considering all of the wonderful opportunities I have accepted an appointment at the United States Naval Academy, I am here today because of few generous donations, and for that I am extremely grateful. Thank you for providing me with this wonderful experience, I will treasure it the rest of my life. And to everyone who has invested in a student, whether with time in teaching, money by donating, or with the spirit of encouraging, thank you for all you have done for creating a community of excellence, generosity and service. Thank you for brining me to this point in my life.

Hello! I am a freshman in High School and a graduate of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Elementary and Middle School. The scholarship that I received from GB Charities has changed my life, it allowed me to make accomplishments that I would have never thought that I’d be able to achieve.

When I was three (3) years old my father passed away from a heart attack. My brother was born one (1) month after my father passed away. When I was five (5) I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. My brother was also diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes 2 months later. Our family had a lot of adjustments at this time.

Thanks to GB Charities I was able to attend Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School. I have been able to grow in a faith-based setting which has helped me to grow into the young adult I am today. I have learned to work hard, be patient and loving. I want to make a difference in the world. I have participated in many sports and choir. I have even had the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at Ripken Stadium. OLMC and my Mom have taught me so many morals and values and that every person has a voice.

I have had an internship at Johns Hopkins Hospital with the Teen and Children’s Council, here I share the patients voice with the doctors. Recently I have been given the opportunity to participate in the 1st Year Johns Hopkins Medical Student Whitecoat Ceremony. At the Ceremony, I will talk about being a patient at Johns Hopkins and my dream of becoming a doctor. The Medical Students will then honor me with a Whitecoat. I am beyond excited and honored to be able to have all of these experiences by the age of 14.

My brother and I have both been involved with the Juvenile Diabetes research Foundation. Here we become very involved with a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Together, my brother and I have become Youth Ambassadors for JDRF for the last five (5) years. One of the most exciting things we have done was become members of the JDRF Children’s Congress. In July, 2015 my brother and I went to Washington DC to talk to Congress about passing the Special Diabetes Program, which grants $300 Million in funds for Diabetes Research for 2 years. We met with Senator Mikulski, Congressman Ruppersberger and Senator Cardin. This was a great learning experience of how your voice really matters. The Special Diabetes program was approved, and there have been many breakthroughs for Type 1 Diabetes.

Through the GB Charities Scholarship, I have been given so many amazing opportunities already in life. I got an amazing education, social skills, and learned how important every person is to the world. I can never express how much gratitude I have. When I get older and hopefully have a successful career, I plan to give back to society and Catholic Charities with the hopes of making a difference for a young child/ adult as you have done for me. Thank you for giving me the life I am living today.