Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson of Ringwood, New Jersey is a Visual Arts major and she has a GPA of 3.9. Emma’s an aspiring artist and holds many goals, one of them being to one day have a showcase in a museum. In her hometown, she’s often won in local art shows.

Emma has been involved in activities such as teaching art classes to elementary students and painting windows for small local businesses. She often volunteers at elementary schools to help teachers with bulletins or any art projects. Emma has a creative personality and, besides art, also enjoys making clothes, jewelry, and upcycling furniture. 

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Ellie Chiu

Ellie Chiu of Edison, N.J. is an Elementary Education major. 

At Ramapo, Ellie is involved with the Future Teachers of America, United Asian Association, and the Women in Business clubs. Off-campus, Ellie works at STEM Academy, a day camp for kids during the summer.

Michael Johnson

“I am extremely proud of all the accomplishments I’ve made so far in college. From starting with being accepted to Ramapo College and to now receiving this scholarship,” says Michael Johnson of Hillsborough, N.J. He is a Music Industry major and an active member of the college community.

At Ramapo, Michael is an active participant in the Super Smash Club, Music Club, and Hiking Club. In his free time, he likes to do charity walks with his friends and family from home.

Kaeli Knott

Kaeli Knott of Edison, N.J. is an English and Literary Studies major. In high school, they were in their school’s National Honors Society.

At Ramapo, Kaeli has been active in the Leaders in Service program, which offers volunteer work opportunities off-campus. They also serve as a campus tour guide for the Admission Office.

Kaeli has been involved in off-campus activities, such as working as a server and host at the Mason Jar, which gives them the chance to create connections with their customers.

After graduation, Kaeli plans to receive a teaching certification to become an English teacher.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Sharleen Lee

Sharleen Lee from Wood Ridge, N.J.is a Psychology major.

Hannah Mildner

Hannah Mildner is a Political Science major with a minor in Public Policy.

Paul Bernhard

“I would like to pursue a career that involves museum work or historical research,” says Paul Bernhard, a History major from Waldwick, N.J.

Paul is involved with Ramapo Gamers/E-Sports, the Smash Club, and the Hiking Club. Off campus, he works with Meals on Wheels and is currently performing driving jobs for people in his community.

In high school, Paul was a proud member of the track team. 

Emily Vassallo

Emily Vassallo is a freshman from Mahwah, NJ majoring in Social Work.

Keidi Kyle

Keidi Kyle of Oakland, N.J. is a Biology major with a 4.0 GPA. She is passionate about public health and its role in ameliorating the racial, ethnic, and class disparities in access to healthcare.

She is involved in the Pre-Med/Pre-Health Club and plans on attending medical school.

Rebecca Gathercole

“I hope to create art that will bring people happiness,” says Rebecca Gathercole of Cranford, N.J. An aspiring screenwriter, Rebecca is a Communication Arts major concentrating in Digital Filmmaking.

Rebecca is a member of the Honors Program, RCTV and the Literature Club. In high school, she was the President of the Latin Club and was an active member of the Girl Scouts. She received the “Distinguished Girl Scout Service Award” for her volunteer work. 

Nick Graessle

Nick Graessle grew up in Whippany, N.J. The freshman is a Law and Society major who would like to either go into law enforcement or attend law school. His first semester resulted in a 3.5 GPA.

“I always liked helping people with their problems and the idea of justice which is why I chose a Law and Society major. I believe that all the experience I have gained through my life has put me on this path and to this career.”

Brendan P. Kuhn

Brendan P. Kuhn is a History major from Point Pleasant, N.J. “I’m proud that I consistently earned Honor Roll status throughout middle school and high school,” he says. He currently has a GPA of 3.75.

At Ramapo, Brendan is involved in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy Club, and he recently worked as the soundboard operator for the Theatre Department’s fall production of Antigone.

Jean Horton

Jean Horton of Ridgewood, N.J.is an International Studies major. She has a 3.6 GPA and has achieved Dean’s List standing. At Ramapo, Jean has been active in the College Honors Program and her dorm’s Residence Hall Council. She enjoys attending on campus events, both to learn more and have fun. “Upon the completion of my degree, I aspire to ease or alleviate the tribulations others have.”

Mary Rose Young

Mary Rose Young of Princeton, N.J. is a Biology major on a pre-med track. At Ramapo, she has been active in Ramapo’s Honor College and the Biology Club.

She volunteers at Teaneck Tutoring and the Oakland Rehabilitation Center. She also is a certified EMT and volunteers at a First Aid and Rescue Squad in her hometown.

Post-graduation, Mary Rose plans to attend Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) to continue her education in healthcare.

Coquette Cruz

Coquette Cruz of Paterson, N.J. is a Psychology major. She has a 3.6 GPA, received Dean’s List in her first semester at Ramapo and was offered a place in an honor society.

She interned with Oasis – A Haven for Women and Children, where she sorted and gave out donations, aided the summer camp staff, and worked under the director of education to help with lesson plans for the school year.

Coquette has also volunteered at many different public service organizations, performing jobs such as wrapping presents for families who could not afford to buy them for the holiday season, and aiding in a naturalization ceremony for those who received citizenship.

Caleb Herbst

Caleb Herbst is a junior Political Science major with minors in Public Policy and Psychology.  He is dedicated to children’s issues, currently working as an advocate for the Partnership for America’s Children and as an elected trustee on the River Edge Board of Education.

Caleb is very involved on campus.  Caleb serves as the undergraduate member at-large on the President’s Advisory Council, the chair of the School of Humanities and Global Studies (HGS) Dean’s Advisory Council, and the HGS school senator in the Student Government Association.  He is also a student member of the College’s Academic Integrity Board, a Peer Facilitator for the Honors program, and an alumnus of the Leaders in Service program.

Caleb is leader in many clubs, organizations, and honor societies on campus.  He has served as the president of Tau Delta Phi fraternity, the president of Democracy Matters, and the secretary of the Philosophy Club.  He is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society, Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, and serves as the secretary of Pi Sigma Alpha, the political science honor society.

Máté Forgács

Máté Forgács of Clifton, N.J. is a Business Management major. He has a 3.9 GPA, is currently on the Dean’s List, and has been recognized by many social organizations for his academic success.

At Ramapo, Máté has been active in the Esports Club, Rock Climbing Club, and Enactus.  He plans to become more established in the Esports scene, attend rock climbing competitions as he improves over time, and become more involved in sustainability approaches and community engagement.

Máté has volunteered for Apple Montessori and currently helps manage his parents’ family business. “With this experience, I hope to one day manage my own business and help pave the way for the future of the economic world.”

Elizabeth Lopata

Elizabeth Lopata of Mahwah, N.J. is a Finance major. On campus, she is an active member of the chess club and part of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council. “I’m doing my best to fully engage myself in my college experience as I pursue my career goals.”  She plans to attend graduate school to earn an MBA.

When she’s not on campus she spends her time tutoring younger students. “I’m hoping to instill a love of higher learning in them, just as I discovered for myself.”

Brendon O’Reilly

Brendon O’Reilly of Teaneck, N.J. is a Psychology major with a minor in Theatre.

At Ramapo, Brendon has been active in several activities, including Leaders in Service and the Honors program.  He is also involved in Technical Theatre and was recently the light board operator for “The Sonic Life of A Giant Tortoise,” performance on campus.

Brendon has also been involved in off campus activities, including the Master Fencing Academy, where he hones his fencing skills and earned third place in the “Grapes of Wrath” Tournament.

Upon graduation Brendon hopes to continue on the path of psychology and earn his PhD.

Michelle M. Park

“I’m proud of my academic achievements all throughout high school and plan to use that same determination throughout my college years,” says freshman Michelle M. Park of Mahwah, N.J. Michelle is a Nursing major and part of the College Honors Program.

She is a multi-year recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes her work with children and young adults with disabilities at Camp Sunshine as well as her volunteer time as an elementary worship leader at her church. During her high school years she shared her love for music by being a part of the marching band, jazz band, symphonic band, chorus, and pit orchestra and she plans on joining the pep band at Ramapo.

Scott Roman

Scott Roman of Wyckoff, NJ is a Communications Major, with a concentration in Visual Communications Design.

Scott has been involved in multiple activities, including BBYO and The Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduation, he intends to pursue a career in Graphic Design.

Sarah Browning

“Attending Ramapo College of New Jersey is one of the best decisions I ever made. It is challenging me academically and developing me professionally while strengthening my abilities as an athlete,” said Sarah Browning on learning of her scholarship award.

A freshman from Kinnelon, NJ, Sarah’s goal is to earn a B.S. in Biology and complete the academic requirements to be accepted into the joint 3+3 program with Rutgers School of Health Related Professions to earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She hopes to one day help rehabilitate pediatric oncology patients or veteran amputees. The Honors College student, who was the starting catcher for state softball champs Immaculate Heart Academy High School, will also be behind the plate as part of Ramapo College’s softball team.

Paul Kozakiewicz

Paul Kozakiewicz of Bergenfield, NJ is a Nursing major. He has a 4.0 GPA and is a proud member of the Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society. He hopes that future classes and clinical experience will help him decide exactly what field of nursing to pursue after graduation.

At Ramapo, Paul has been active in the Nursing Student Organization and works for the Center for Student Involvement in CSI Design.

Paul has also been involved in off–campus activities and organizations, including working a seasonal job at Panera Bread and contributing to the Extra Life charity benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Timothy Boccio

Timothy Boccio is a Communication Arts major in the School of Contemporary Arts.  His concentration is Visual Communication Design.

Colette Barca

Colette Barca is a Mathematics major in the School of Theoretical and Applied Science.

Shannon Audet

Shannon Audet is a Theater major in the School of Contemporary Arts.  Her concentration is Design/Technical Theater.

Marithe Adiong

Marithe Adiong of Dumont, NJ is a Nursing major. She has a 3.8 GPA.

At Ramapo, Marithe has been active in several organizations and activities, including FASA (Filipino American Student Association) and United Asians Association.

Off campus, Marithe has volunteered at Englewood Hospital and Dixon Homestead Library.

Sarah Murphy

Sarah Murphy of Jackson, NJ is a Psychology major and Biology minor.  She has a 3.96 GPA.  Sarah has made Dean’s List throughout all four years at Ramapo.

Sarah has been active in several organizations and activities at Ramapo, including the Health Awareness Team, Resident Hall Council, and a research lab within the Psychology Department.  She has served as a Peer Educator at the Center for Health and Counseling Services.  She also volunteers for Sage Day High School.

“Attending Ramapo has been one of the best decisions I’ve made because the Psychology faculty have played an integral role in my success as a student.  They have worked with me to make sure I stayed on track to getting into graduate school….Not having to worry about the price of my education has allowed me to focus on my studies and get me where I am today.”

Ryan Corbley

Sabrina Forte

Alyssa Rabinowitz

Alyssa Rabinowitz of North Bellmore, NY is currently an undeclared major. She has a 3.9 GPA. She has been nominated for membership in the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and The National Society of Collegiate Scholars.

Alyssa is involved in the Ramapo Chorale, and serves on the executive board of Hillel.

Off campus, she serves as a volunteer tutor for Teaneck’s Math Adventures and Word Play, and also volunteers at House on the Hill Day Care.

Houda Essafi

Houda Essafi is a sophomore from Waldwick, NJ majoring in Psychology.

Emily Inserra

Emily Inserra of Bogota, N.J. is a double major in history and communications arts with a concentration in global communication and media.  She has a 4.0 grade point average.  She is a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society.

At Ramapo, Emily has been active in several organizations and activities, including Alpha Psi Omega Theater Honor Society and the American Studies Club.

Jessica Bowman

Jessica Bowman of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., is a literature major. She is proud to have graduated from Bergen County Academies in Hackensack, N.J.
At Ramapo, Jessica is a member of Relay for Life, Colleges Against Cancer, the Literature Club and Leaders in Service. As a high school student, she completed an internship at Random House’s Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. Jessica said this experience confirmed her interest in publishing. She helped establish Healing Meals, which provides healthy meals for cancer patients and their families.
Jessica plans to pursue a career in publishing.

Grace Maute

Grace Maute of Manahawkin, N.J., is a social work major. She is considering a minor in Spanish and/or photography.

At Ramapo, Grace is a member of Ramapo Pride, the treasurer and event planner for Active Minds, a volunteer photographer for the Ramapo News and a volunteer in the Women’s Center.

Grace spends her summers working as a camp counselor in Pennsylvania. Grace plans to work toward a MSW and to work with children.

Christine Jaipersaud

Christine Jaipersaud of Bogota, N.J., is a biochemistry major. She is considering a minor in psychology.
At Ramapo, Christine is a member of Biology Club and the Chemistry/Biochemistry Club.
Christine plans to become a pharmacist and to conduct medial research. She is eager to apply for an internship so that she may test out the field and gain hands-on experience.

Sarah Murphy

Sarah Murphy of Jackson, N.J., is a psychology major and a biology minor. She has a 3.93 grade point average.

At Ramapo, Sarah is a peer educator for the Health Awareness Team, part of the Center for Health and Counseling Services. She is secretary of the Laurel Resident Hall Council.

Sarah plans to attend graduate school and to earn a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in psychology. She would like to become a counselor for adolescents. Sarah is also considering becoming a professor.

Sarah Murphy

Sarah Murphy of Jackson, N.J., is a psychology major and a biology minor. She has a 3.93 grade point average.

At Ramapo, Sarah is a peer educator for the Health Awareness Team, part of the Center for Health and Counseling Services. She is secretary of the Laurel Resident Hall Council.

Sarah plans to attend graduate school and to earn a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in psychology. She would like to become a counselor for adolescents. Sarah is also considering becoming a professor.

Tyler Van Vliet

Tyler Van Vliet of Blairstown, NJ is a History major and a Political Science minor. He is active in RC Hammer. Tyler has a 3.40 grade point average.

Laura Majewski

Freshman Laura Majewski is majoring in Psychology. She has earned a 3.82 grade point average. Laura is from Succasunna, NJ and is a graduate of Roxbury High School.

Megan Janesky

Megan Janesky of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ is a Biology major. She is a member of the Pre- Med/Pre-Health Club, Dumbledore’s Army and Ramapo Pride. After graduation, she plans to pursue a doctorate degree in Physical Therapy. “This scholarship has given me the chance to go to my dream college and receive the full college experience,” she said. Megan has a 3.85 grade point average.

This scholarship has given me the chance to go to my dream college and pursue my dream of becoming a Physical Therapist.

Brianna Skuriat

Brianna Skuriat of Linden, NJ is an Accounting major. She is an office assistant in the School of Humanities and Global Studies Office. Brianna is active in a sorority and Leaders in Service. She has a 3.82 grade point average.

Jessica Cimicata

Freshman Jessica Cimicata is from Lyndhurst, NJ and graduated from Bergen County Academies’ Academy for Visual and Performing Arts. In high school, she was a costume designer for plays and musical productions, a member of the concert choir, and artistic director for a production of “The King and I.” She volunteered during the summer as a camp counselor at a camp for children with special needs and disabilities. At Ramapo, Jessica is a Theater major concentrating in Design/Technical Theater and has a 3.32 grade point average. Jessica plans to work in theater design and technical theater.

With the money this scholarship provides, I am hoping to attend graduate school to further learning in my field and continue to pursue my dreams.

Emily Harris

Emily Harris of East Brunswick, NJ is interested in Psychology and Sociology, and focused on Community Mental Health. At Ramapo, she also plans to pursue Elementary Teacher Certification. An accomplished athlete, Emily helped the East Brunswick High School Varsity Volleyball team reach the semi-finals in 2011. As a JV shortstop for the school’s Softball team, she helped them place first in the Middlesex County Regional Tournament. She’s also played club volleyball and helped people with disabilities play basketball. This experience has had a lasting impact on Emily, especially when she elicited a smile from a 12-year-old boy not able to walk or talk and who shot the basketball from his stroller. Emily has a grade point average of 3.60.

This scholarship will allow me to continue my studies at Ramapo College, which will prepare me to excel in the job world.

Evan Harris

Evan Harris of East Brunswick, NJ is an Environmental Science major who plans to pursue Elementary Teacher Certification. During his four years at East Brunswick High School, he helped disabled people play basketball. He also held jobs as a camp counselor and a baseball umpire. He was especially moved by being partnered with the same basketball buddy for four years, a young man he considers his friend. Evan says, “He taught me that people are all basically the same. I look at how hard he works every day and am grateful for the things that I once took for granted.” Evan has a 3.55 grade point average.

Joshua Davidson

Joshua Davidson of Butler, NJ is interested in Economics. At Eastern Christian High School in North Haledon, NJ he is a record holder in Pole Vault. Joshua completed National Youth Leadership Training and was named a Trig-Star Champion. He earned the Eagle Scout Award and received Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. Joshua was the lead actor in a play and three musicals and, as a member of the Class Council, helped plan the prom. He also sang, played guitar and served as a Chapel Workshop Leader.

Sarah McConkey

Sarah McConkey is a Social Work major who is also studying Substance Abuse Counseling. Sara intends to enter a graduate social work program upon graduation and become a licensed social worker. Sarah’s experience with undergraduate research projects at Ramapo College has inspired her to plan for her eventual pursuit of a Ph.D. in counseling. Sarah is a member of the Judicial Board and the Academic Integrity Board as a peer facilitator, and a Girl Scout troop leader. She is the president of the Psychology Coalition, vice president of Feminists United and a Social Justice Coalition member. Sarah has earned a 3.87 grade point average and is a Ramapo Presidential Scholar and an Edward J. Blaustein Distinguished Scholar. She is from Wayne, NJ.

Javier Tejada

Freshman Javier Tejada is from Newark, NJ and is a graduate of Seton Hall Preparatory School in West Orange, NJ. For two years in high school Javier was a paid intern with the Metropolitan Golf Association. Javier tutored middle school students in Math. Three times he visited the Dominican Republic as part of an education outreach program held during Spring Break to tutor rural high school students in English. Javier also is proud of having been named captain of the Junior Varsity Golf team and the Cross-Country team, where he was the top freshman runner. At Ramapo Javier is majoring in Biochemistry.

John Saunders

John Saunders of Atlanta, GA is interested in Psychology. Jack is also interested in music and studio art. At Saint Francis High School he was a member of the Varsity Wrestling team and the Outdoor Adventure Club, and participated in skiing, rafting, hiking and camping trips. His artwork was displayed at school and entered into local competitions. In addition, Jack volunteered evenings and weekends at the Atlanta Community Food Bank. He writes and performs songs and started a band. With YouTube videos as his instructor, Jack learned to play the didgeridoo. He wanted to attend a college where “I can continue to develop and share my skills in music and art, and learn more about psychology.” Jack has a 2.53 grade point average.

Maria Procopio

As a high school student Maria Procopio of Vineland, NJ earned college credit from Seton Hall University and Cumberland County College, and her transcript is a series of AP courses. Maria, who is a Biology major, ranked first in a graduating class of 66. She played Varsity Volleyball for four years and served as the team’s captain in her senior year. She also was a member of the Varsity Cheerleading, Soccer and Track & Field teams. Maria was awarded her school’s Junior Science Award and was chosen as a school representative for the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership. An accomplished pianist, additional out-of-classroom activities include volunteering at South Jersey Regional Medical Center and at the annual St. Padre Pio Festival, donating her hair to Locks of Love and tutoring. Maria, who has a 3.92 grade point average, would like to pursue a career in the field of medicine.

I would like to thank the people who provided this scholarship.Their generosity will help me achieve my goals and it is truly appreciated.

Stephen Portnoy

Involvement with his school’s DECA team inspired Stephen Portnoy of Leonia, NJ to major in Business Administration. He served as secretary and president of his school’s DECA club and as northern region vice president for the statewide DECA program. He held the position of attorney for Mock Trial competitions. He earned a Rookie of theYear award for his participation on the swim team and was a member of the Service Club. In his spare time, Stephen is an auxiliary member of the volunteer fire department and in the summer, works as a lifeguard. Stephen says, “I plan on using the leadership abilities I have honed in DECA and on the swim team in the Anisfield School of Business.

David Nole

David Nole of Sicklerville, NJ participated in a Project Acceleration program through Seton Hall University in which he completed an Introduction to Teaching course. He enrolled in Honors and AP classes throughout high school. David was a committed member of the school’s Varsity Cross Country and Spring and Winter Track teams. He was selected for the Teen Prevention Education Program, a course offered to seniors on an invitation-only basis that develops trained peer educators. He participated in Future Teachers of America, the Spanish Club and served on the Executive Committee for the Class of 2011. David’s guidance counselor said, “David does not need a title to lead.” He shows respect for others and dedication to all that he does.

To those who provided this scholarship–thank you for allowing me to continue my education and pursue my academic goals.

Patricia Nunez

Patricia Nunez of Newark, NJ may have taken more science classes in high school than most. That’s because she attended Science Park High School. Her hard work resulted in a good grade point average and ranking in her graduating class. A science teacher at the school described Patricia in glowing terms as conscientious, punctual, organized, confident, mature and responsible and concluded that Patricia will be a valuable component to Ramapo College.

Sarah McConkey

Sarah McConkey is a Social Work major who is also studying Substance Abuse Counseling. Sara intends to enter a graduate social work program upon graduation and become a licensed social worker. Sarah’s experience with undergraduate research projects at Ramapo College has inspired her to plan for her eventual pursuit of a Ph.D. in counseling. Sarah is a member of the Judicial Board and the Academic Integrity Board as a peer facilitator, and a Girl Scout troop leader. She is the president of the Psychology Coalition, vice president of Feminists United and a Social Justice Coalition member. Sarah has earned a 3.87 grade point average and is a Ramapo Presidential Scholar and an Edward J. Blaustein Distinguished Scholar. She is from Wayne, NJ.

Nicholas Helmstetter

Freshman Nicholas Helmstetter is from Union, NJ. In high school Nick was involved with the student council as class vice president and executive board member. He was a Vacation Bible School group leader at his church and co-president of the Catholic Youth Organization, and worked at a homeless shelter, quadriplegic center and nursing home and at NJARC, a school for children with disabilities.

This scholarship will help me to pursue my dreams of becoming a high school math teacher and boost my development of leadership skills.

Jessica Donovan

Freshman Jessica Donovan is a graduate of Bergen County Technical High School in Teterboro and has taken classes at Bergen Community College and Fairleigh Dickinson University. In high school she was captain of the girls’ bowling team. As part of the 2009 Teen Arts Festival Jessica won a Silver Medal for Broadcast News and a Gold Medal for Technology Display as part of the NJ Skills USA competition. Jessica is dedicated to writing, creating poems, essays and short stories which she describes as “both artistic and therapeutic.” Jessica plans to become an English teacher.

Sarah McConkey

Sarah McConkey is a Social Work major who is also studying Substance Abuse Counseling. Sara intends to enter a graduate social work program upon graduation and become a licensed social worker. Sarah’s experience with undergraduate research projects at Ramapo College has inspired her to plan for her eventual pursuit of a Ph.D. in counseling. Sarah is a member of the Judicial Board and the Academic Integrity Board as a peer facilitator, and a Girl Scout troop leader. She is the president of the Psychology Coalition, vice president of Feminists United and a Social Justice Coalition member. Sarah has earned a 3.87 grade point average and is a Ramapo Presidential Scholar and an Edward J. Blaustein Distinguished Scholar. She is from Wayne, NJ.

Kyle Plucinsky

Kyle Plucinsky of Denville, NJ is a graduate of Morris Knolls High School. He was the captain of the Swim and Cross Country Teams and earned the Boy Scout Eagle Award in his sophomore year. He attended Jersey Boys State to participate in a mock trial program. He said the experience not only helped him better understand the 2008 presidential election, but gave him the skills to help run a mock election at Morris Knolls. Kyle, who has a 4.00 grade point average, has demonstrated leadership capabilities in Project LEAD, organizing freshmen orientation and activities and as a member of the Student Government Association. He also is active with the Indian Lakes community as a member of their swim and track teams and as a lifeguard.

I am now able to focus on my education with all of my attention without worrying about how to pay for school.

Ashley Tamkutonis

Ashley Tamkutonis of Matawan, NJ raised money for victims of Hurricane Katrina and Relay for Life, volunteers at a residence for senior citizens and assisted with freshmen orientation. She garnered many acceptances into academic honor societies and took to the stage at her high school for the Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Spring Musical, variety show and the fall drama and spring musical productions. Ashley is a Biology major with a 3.17 grade point average. After Ramapo, she plans to continue her education in medical school to specialize in pediatrics.

The scholarship allows me to be able to attend college and incur as little debt as possible, which I am extremely thankful for since I hope to attend medical school after graduating.

John Critelli

John Critelli of East Brunswick, NJ has a different high school experience than most students. He was home schooled, all the while focusing on what he would need to succeed in college. Along the way he earned 15 college credits at Middlesex County College. Before becoming a home-schooled student, John’s comics were routinely published in the school paper. As a homeschooler, he created a comic strip that took non-speaking video game characters and gave them the ability to talk. He posted the comic strip on a blog he created and soon his site was drawing 10,000 visitors. At Middlesex John joined the Backstage Club, a club in which he wrote and presented a stand-up comedy routine. John is in his first year at Ramapo and has earned a 4.00 grade point average. He plans to major in Business Administration/ Marketing.

This scholarship gives me a big head start in life.

Joseph Lewandowski

Joseph Lewandowski, who is president of Ramapo’s television station, RCTV, says his involvement there sometimes feels like a full-time job. He enjoys the challenge of building respect for the station and drawing students to return each week. The Communication Arts/ Journalism major is the sports editor of The Ramapo News. The senior has earned a 3.97 grade point average. Joe is also a writing tutor for the Center for Academic Success. He is from Whitehouse Station, NJ and plans on a career as a sports writer or a film critic.

Paulina Rodrigues

“I have worked at Advanced Dental Care in Mahwah, shadowed at multiple dental offices for over 300 hours and I did the Gateway to Dentistry externship with UMDNJ,” says Paulina Rodrigues. “I also did implant research at Dr. Shuman’s dental practice.” Paulina is a senior majoring in Biology who has earned a 3.87 grade point average. On campus Paulina is a member of the Ski and Snowboard Club, the Rock Climbing Club, and Phi Delta Epsilon. She works at Valley Stables and at the rock wall in the Bradley Center. “Paulina was accepted to multiple dental schools and will be going to the University of Maryland,” reports professor Rena Bacon, advisor to students planning to attend medical school or dental school. Paulina is from Wayside, NJ.

It will help me afford dental school.

Sarah McConkey

Sarah McConkey is a Social Work major who is also studying Substance Abuse Counseling. Sara intends to enter a graduate social work program upon graduation and become a licensed social worker. Sarah’s experience with undergraduate research projects at Ramapo College has inspired her to plan for her eventual pursuit of a Ph.D. in counseling. Sarah is a member of the Judicial Board and the Academic Integrity Board as a peer facilitator, and a Girl Scout troop leader. She is the president of the Psychology Coalition, vice president of Feminists United and a Social Justice Coalition member. Sarah has earned a 3.87 grade point average and is a Ramapo Presidential Scholar and an Edward J. Blaustein Distinguished Scholar. She is from Wayne, NJ.

My scholarship is enabling me to begin my life in the workforce essentially debt-free. It’s a godsend.

Kathleen Carpio

“I have decided to pursue a career in law, and face any challenges that await me,” says freshman Kathleen Carpio. Kathleen is from Hackensack, New Jersey and is a graduate of the Academy for the Advancement of Science and Technology. In high school Kathleen participated in a biology research elective, and was named a National Ventures Scholar in recognition for her academic achievement. She participated in the concert choir during three years. At Ramapo Kathleen is majoring in psychology.

Alyssa Johnson

“I plan to pursue a medical degree,” says Alyssa Johnson from Monroe Township, New Jersey. In high school Alyssa took a number of honors and Advanced Placement courses, and was a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. She participated in the American Legion during all four years of high school.

The scholarship has allowed me to attend a great college and the education I receive will open the door to many wonderful career opportunities.

Jillian Grimaldi

“My short term goal is to teach English,” says Jillian Grimaldi. “Long term, I hope to do research on how the mind functions in terms of writing ability and develop techniques that would aid in teaching students to write well.” Jillian is from the Township of Washington, New Jersey and is a graduate of Immaculate Heart Academy. During her four years of high school Jillian was editor of her high school newspaper, participated in Junior Statesmen of American, and was a member of the Writer’s Guild, serving as president. She received the Silver Award from Girl Scouts. Jillian is a freshman at Ramapo majoring in Literature.

This scholarship means the ability to study the subjects that I love and work towards reaching my dream of practicing Psychology.

Magdalena Dimeska

Magdalena Dimeska is from Macedonia and is in her second year at Ramapo College. She is majoring in literature and has earned a 3.28 grade point average. She transferred from Bergen Community College where she earned an associate’s degree. Magdalena came to the United States when she was 16 to pursue studies in mathematics or physics, however her passion was to study literature. “My mother said that a person who goes to the USA carrying 70 pounds of books (including ten copies of Dante’s Inferno) can never be a good math professor,” Magdalena says. In her home country Magdalena earned first place in a literary contest in 2001 and was a delegate to the Model United Nations for three years. “I would like to get my master’s and then Ph.D. in literature,” she says. “I believe the day will come when I can go home to Macedonia to pass on the knowledge I have gained and make a difference.”

Joseph Lewandowski

Joseph Lewandowski, who is president of Ramapo’s television station, RCTV, says his involvement there sometimes feels like a full-time job. He enjoys the challenge of building respect for the station and drawing students to return each week. The Communication Arts/ Journalism major is the sports editor of The Ramapo News. The senior has earned a 3.97 grade point average. Joe is also a writing tutor for the Center for Academic Success. He is from Whitehouse Station, NJ and plans on a career as a sports writer or a film critic.

After meeting the Friends of Ramapo recently, it was further cemented in my mind how much their generosity means to me. By not having to worry about funding my way through school, I can use my time to pursue the avenues I am passionate about (such as RCTV or the Ramapo News).

Martin Cohen

Martin Cohen of Woodcliff Lake, NJ is majoring in Economics and Finance. He serves as assistant to the executive director of the Eastern Economic Association, a not-for-profit corporation whose objective is to promote educational and scholarly exchange on economic affairs that is based at Ramapo College. Martin is a member of the Federal Reserve ChallengeTeam, Hillel and the Ultimate Frisbee Team. The junior has earned a 3.85 grade point average and plans to obtain a doctorate in Economics and become a professor. Martin says, “This scholarship means that I have the recognition and support of my school in my future endeavors.”

My scholarship will assist me in my future endeavors by allowing me to afford graduate studies more easily.