Michigan Chapter of Mid-America Association of Educational Opportunity Personal Essay Scholarship
(MI-MAEOPP)

As a Communication major, I want to learn as much about the Irish culture as I can (and other cultures I encounter in Europe) and will enjoy communicating with a society that is so different from my own. While Ireland is similar to America, the rural lifestyle of the Tully Cross community will make living in Ireland an interesting cross-cultural experience. I am also excited to learn about the culture of my family's past as part of my family history lies in Ireland. I hope to meet many new people, learn about their lifestyles, and develop many alliances with people throughout Europe.

2005-2006 Recipients

Crystal Larabel overcame great challenges in her life, emerging as a leader with a humble heart.  Crystal chose to share her difficulties with others by volunteering as a spiritual retreat leader at Aquinas.  In sharing her story, she inspires countless others. Mature beyond her years, Crystal is a caring and considerate woman who has great plans for the future.  Yet, her focus is not on herself but on those who are hurting or less fortunate.

Elisabeth Godin was involved in a hit and run car accident at age four.  Her closed head injury caused her life to be changed forever, yet Elisabeth works hard to excel, using her talent as a writer to compensate for difficulties in oral communication and concentration.

Elisabeth is pursing a degree in Elementary Education with a major in Learning Disabilities. She volunteers time leading and organizing spiritual retreats and is a tutor for ESL students.  Elisabeth Godin has committed her entire life to what she enjoys most -serving others.

2004-2005 Recipients

Kelly Simon knows that good must always prevail.  She arose from darkness to create a brighter future for herself and for the people in her life.  Not long after beginning college, Kelly delved into the new world that was open to her, as she began providing care and building homes for the homeless.  A diligent student, she strives for success in her academics and in her natural ability to ease the sufferings of all humankind.  She reaches out to the timid, shares her heart in friendship, and is determined to keep growing into a young woman of fortitude and generosity.

Ten years ago Truc Tran and his family left Vietnam to pursue a better education and a more secure future.  Adapting to a new language and culture create challenges most Americans could never imagine.  Truc’s trials are further complicated by the responsibility he carries in assisting his family to meet the needs of his severely, handicapped sibling.

But Truc’s persistence endures.  Long ago, he decided his life’s purpose: to serve as a neurologist, caring for the poor.  Truc’s focus never wavered; his ambition drives him toward success as a student, as a leader, and as a selfless, spiritual person.

Monique's personal strength motivates her to excel academically and to participate in various community activities. She is involved in Habitat for Humanity, Aquinas College Thespians, and Son-Rise, a program that works with autistic children. Monique's commitment makes her a role model to other students, and she plans to serve as an urban high school teacher involved with Upward Bound students.

Philip motivates others through his outgoing and likable personality. He cares deeply about performing his best and improving the lives of other people. His compassion shines through his volunteer activities, which include Habitat for Humanity and Casa Hogar, an organization that raises money for children in Peru. In addition to these activities, Philip also runs cross-country, not to be the fastest runner, but simply because he is proud to say he is in the running. He looks, not for rewards or recognition, but to work to the very best of his ability.

Kelly Simon, Truc Tran, Jenny Williams, and Julia Wojciechowski