Incoming freshman Maira Mercado has been named one of four students nationwide to receive a $100,000 scholarship by Ronald McDonald House Charities/Hispanic American Commitment to Education Resources.
To apply for the scholarship, students must have maintained a strong academic record, displayed service to the community, and demonstrated significant financial need.
The first in her family to attend college, Mercado graduated first in her class of 422 at Arlington High School and also presided over various clubs and organizations, making her a prime candidate for the award. Still, she said, "I was very surprised and really proud. It was the best scholarship I had received and I knew it would help me a lot."
Asked why she chose to put her scholarship to use at CMC, Mercado says she appreciated the College's practical focus and the successes awaiting many of its graduates. "I like how it combines a liberal arts education with the leadership emphasis," she says. "I think the small size gives it a better, more personal education. It also provides a lot of great extracurricular and career opportunities."
Mercado plans to double-major in economics and mathematics and looks forward to an active role in campus activities. "I'm sure there are many more things I will be able to do," she says.
Mercado says outside of school, she enjoys drawing, creative writing, rollerblading, and being outdoors.
Peter Jung '10