Scholarship Recipients

I was nine when I realized I wanted to be a journalist. I remember it so well - I was watching a VH1 memorial montage for Kurt Cobain a few days after he died. I thought to myself, 'I really want to write down how I feel about this. And I want other people to know!' And so, at the age of nine, I wrote my first letter to the editor of a local South African music magazine. I never got round to sending it in, but I remember it well.

I grew up in a family that believes very much in hard work, and helping others. I love to write, and I love to interact with people. I thought journalism was the best of both worlds. I also love to travel, so when I read about Columbia's M.S. Journalism program, I knew that I had to try out for it. That was about six years ago. I did my undergraduate degree in Media Studies and Psychology in Johannesburg, and some work experience freelancing and doing odd jobs, always with the course in the back of my mind. It was my dream.

When I found out that I was accepted, the initial happiness was replaced immediately with the thought: 'How am I going to pay for this?' My parents couldn't afford it, and neither could I. I had to take a loan out, but I was hesitant. When I found out I was receiving scholarship funds, it was the encouragement I needed. I thought, 'If the school believes in me, and is willing to fund me, then I should believe in me too.' I took a loan to cover the rest of the money, and here I am. It's sometimes scary to think of the money I owe, but I wouldn't be anywhere else in the world. I am so grateful to the alumni who contributed to my scholarship funds - and who also, without even knowing it - convinced me to come here through their contribution. I hope that I can make the school proud.

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. Coming from a hard working class family, I understand the importance of education and the need to always work hard to accomplish my goals. In 1999, three weeks after graduating from high school, I joined the United States Navy. In 2002, I moved to New York City with hopes of finding opportunities and become a professional. I was fortunate enough to be accepted at Sarah Lawrence College and received a Liberal Arts Bachelor’s degree in 2008. Through generous financial aid, I was able to attend and have a wonderful life-changing experience. During my time at Sarah Lawrence College, I developed an interest in journalism and desire to give a voice to people and their communities.

I've interned at WNBC News 4 New York and was able to work on Positively Black, one of WNBC’s longest running segments. I also assisted in the development and production of news by writing and formatting scripts for Weekend Today in New York.

I decided to go to Columbia School of Journalism to be taught by the best in the field and receive a great journalism foundation. Once again, I am fortunate to be part of this great school and thankful for their generous aid.

I grew up in Northern California and attended Hampton University where I earned a degree in political science with an emphasis in speech communications. After obtaining my undergraduate degree I enrolled at North Carolina Central University’s School of Law where I participated in trial advocacy, moot court, and was a senior editor for my school’s law journal. I practiced in the public sector for several years, working as a prisoner rights advocate and then prosecuting cases on behalf of the federal government. I have always had a desire to assist underrepresented individuals and my work was tremendously rewarding.

In 2003, I began specializing in entertainment law and my love for radio developed. I applied to the Graduate School of Journalism because after nine years of practicing law; I knew I was at a crossroads in my career. I decided to follow my passion of writing and storytelling. I was ecstatic when I received my acceptance letter from Columbia, but feared my real life financial responsibilities would prevent me from attending school full time. There is no way I would have been able to attend Columbia without the significant scholarship package I received, and I thank the School of Journalism and alumni. I am honored and grateful to be afforded the opportunity to study at the best journalism program in the country and look forward to pursuing my goal of hosting a radio talk show.