These Scholars Teach Us a Thing or Two About Resilience

This week, GSK honored Philadelphia and Research Triangle residents with GSK Opportunity Scholarships to attend college or universities. Each of these individuals were dealt a difficult hand of cards in life--some developed serious medical conditions, others suffered from abuse or poverty, and one young woman was homeless. If there is one common thread amongst these people from different walks of life, it is their amazing resilience. 

Through it all, these students demonstrated drive and commitment to education to fulfill their dreams, and to turn their negative experiences into a way forward.  We can all learn a thing or two from them.

With the GSK Opportunity Scholarships, these students will have the opportunity to continue their education and lead healthier and more productive lives.

To our 2013 scholarship recipients--we're proud of you! You inspired us, you reminded us to be grateful for all that we have and to give back to others.  And now a round of applause, please, for our 2013 GSK Opportunity Scholarship recipients:

Glen Casey, Philadelphia, PA, will use his scholarship to study political science at Temple University, and focus on educational policy in order to help students achieve their full potential.

Francis Days-Sellers, Research Triangle, NC, will use her scholarship to study early childhood education at Durham Technical Community College with a goal of helping families make good choices, with an emphasis on education.

Ryan Donaghy, Philadelphia, PA, will use his scholarship at Community College of Philadelphia and plans to eventually pursue a career in nursing or social work to help families dealing with serious health issues.

Tamisha Hardee, Philadelphia, PA, will use her scholarship to study at Community College of Philadelphia and plans to pursue a career in nursing.

Suzanne Hugus, Research Triangle, NC, will use her scholarship to complete her degree in communication and psychology at North Carolina State University and seek a master's degree in social work.

Tanazja Leonard, Research Triangle, NC, will use her scholarship to attend North Carolina Central University and study nutrition and food sciences in hopes she can help people make healthier eating decisions.

Meko Noel, Philadelphia, PA will use her scholarship to study psychology at Temple University.  She plans to become a psychologist or psychiatrist so she can help homeless youth.

Yalisa Rodriguez, Philadelphia, PA will use her scholarship to study speech communications at Millersville University. 

Elizabeth Rojas-Steinbrecher, Research Triangle, NC, will use her scholarship to pursue a degree in psychology at the University of North Carolina with the ultimate goal to attend medical school and lead a life helping others.

2013 GSK Opportunity Scholarship Winners in Philadelphia.