Lucero Orozco
Alvernia University
Lucero Orozco is a visible and energetic leader at Alvernia University, working closely with other students on a variety of community engagement activities both on and off campus. As a graduate of Reading High, a Healthcare Science Major and a member of Alvernia's prestigious Reading Collegiate Scholars Program, Lucy is well-deserving of this award.
The Reading Collegiate Scholars Program provides college readiness programming for students at Reading High School, and provides a highly competitive full scholarship at Alvernia for the top ten graduates of the program. A scholarship recipient herself, Ms. Orozco has worked for each of the past two years as a tutor at Reading High, helping students prepare to successfully graduate from high school and pursue their education at the college or university of their choice. Especially impressive is Lucy's ability to serve as a role model for students with a skill and grace seldom encountered in a young woman of her age. Ms. Orozco has emerged as an inspirational leader for her fellow college students who participate in the program, as well as a mentor to those high school students who themselves aspire to be college-bound graduates of Reading High School-just like her.
Personal Statement
Over the years, I have grown and learned to become a better mentor to serve individuals in and outside my community. I have heard people say negative things about students from Reading Sr. High School, which did not make me feel good because I am from Reading. Over time, I became more aware that individuals from Reading are not provided the same opportunities as others. This awareness motivated me to be a mentor and role model, to demonstrate that there is hope and that everyone can achieve their goals in life with determination. While in college, I am part of a team that provides opportunities to high school students to improve their academic skills through an afterschool program. In addition, we provide one-on-one tutoring and help with the college processes. Knowing that I come from a similar background as the students that I mentor creates a stronger connection and builds trust to assist them with what they need. I believe that education is important to bridge the social and economic gaps to make a community better.
