Nicole Sybesma

Nicole Sybesma, a Literature major, credits writing for providing her with critical, analytical and communicative skills. A selfdescribed voracious reader and writer, Nicole, a senior, plans to attend graduate school to obtain a Ph.D. and become an English professor. Nicole also writes poetry, a vehicle, she says, that has opened a window into better understanding herself and language. “Writing is the cornerstone of our society,” says Nicole. “Good writing skills are imperative to all disciplines and occupations, particularly in a global economy.” Nicole is from Mahwah, NJ and has a 3.58 grade point average.

Awarded Scholarships

2011

Lally, Garvin 84 Writer's Scholarship

Garvin Lally graduated from Ramapo in 1984 and became a freelance writer. He started as an Economics major and graduated with a degree in Communications. The oldest of five children, his sister Gina recalls that he published a paperback book of poetry. He met his wife, Julie on a business trip to China, while working and writing for a college life magazine called DORM.

Tragically, Garvin died at age 28 in an airplane crash in Chile, South America in 1991. His wife Julie established this scholarship in Garvin’s memory to perpetuate his love for writing and for Ramapo College. Gina says Garvin would deeply encourage any student that has a passion for writing to do so. “It is a powerful vehicle for self-expression that can not only be beneficial to the writer, but also can give others an intimate experience, understanding, hope, laughter, love, and so much else.”

Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in writing, literature or poetry.