The Center for Career and Transfer had a big month of scholarships with two students awarded scholarships they will use upon graduating from QCC and transferring to a bachelor's program.
Melissa Da Silva Bento, a Liberal Arts-Psychology student who graduated in December 2023, was awarded $1,000 from the New England Transfer Association. While the scholarship only required a 3.25 GPA, Melissa maintained a 4.0 and was a member of the Psychology Club, Psi Beta Honor Society, Commonwealth Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa.
“This scholarship means a lot to me because I strongly believe that any financial assistance is crucial in pursuing higher education. The costs involved in obtaining a bachelor's degree, such as tuition and housing, can be overwhelming, Melissa said.”
Melissa described her time at QCC as transformative, thanks to an atmosphere of diversity and meaningful connections with peers and professors. Melissa was grateful for all the support she received at QCC, especially from Professor/Coordinator of English John Stazinski, Professor of Human Services/Coordinator of Commonwealth Honors Program Jean Kennedy, Professors of Psychology Jen Arner Welsch, Valarie Clemente, Eric Mania and Maura Stickles, and Coordinator of Transfer and Articulation Beth Fullerton.
While she is still deciding on a school for her bachelor’s degree, she is excited to keep studying psychology and eventually wants to pursue a master’s and doctorate degree.
“Witnessing firsthand how psychology can profoundly help people has reinforced my commitment to furthering my education in this field. I'm excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and deeply grateful for the opportunities QCC has provided me,” she added.
Another recent scholarship recipient is Human Services student Hannah Rosenkrantz who was awarded the Foster Furcolo Scholarship that will cover all tuition and fees at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Hannah has maintained a 3.74 GPA, while working as an EMT and serving on the Student Advisory Committee to the Board of Higher Education.
“When I came here in 2021, I wasn't even sure I wanted to go to college. But QCC provided so many amazing opportunities, from playing Nintendo in the Fuller and learning from dedicated professors, to joining the Student Government Association and making friends with some amazing people. I would not be where I am today without the support and encouragement of the QCC family,” Hannah said.