Howley Scholar of Distinction

Since my first day at Merion, my gratitude for being named a Howley Scholar of Distinction has only grown. The Howley Foundation has given me the opportunity to pursue outstanding academics as I also seek to reach my fullest potential. I am here thanks to the great help of the Howley Foundation. I could not imagine myself at any other school. Merion has such a welcoming sisterhood that I knew I needed to be a part of it. I am indeed fortunate to be here where I enjoy close connections with my dedicated teachers, multiple service opportunities, and many wonderful friendships. From day one, my teachers have not only inspired me personally, but they have created an atmosphere where all students can gain confidence and advance their learning. I never expected to build the strong friendships that I now have. I highly value these relationships as we walk together on our journey at Merion. True to our sisterhood, we will support one another through any challenge. I am in every possible honors class. It was definitely hard at first, but I am proud to meet these challenges. I am now used to the workload, and I understand what is expected of me. My favorite course is Honors Spanish. I am constantly learning not only about Spanish but also about myself.

I am fortunate to be involved in several of the activities offered here including Mercy Mission Corps, a service club, Mathletes, Swim team, and Chorale. Mercy Mission Corps is my favorite because I love helping others and seeing the positive impact it has on their lives. The club encourages leadership and provides many opportunities to build confidence by going out of our comfort zone and helping others. We now have a passion to serve. At the St. Francis Inn, we serve food to those experiencing homelessness, and we further work to ensure a secure feeling through friendly communication. I have also prepared meals for hungry families. These experiences sooth my soul as I know I made a difference in people’s lives, even if it was a small one. I am inspired to do more and more.

Being a Howley Scholar of Distinction means the world to me. I have been exposed to many opportunities that will definitely help me grow and develop. I am inspired to find my true self as I explore the brilliant academic environment in which I am immersed. This first year of my Mery journey has been extremely fulfilling, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds. Whatever the challenges ahead, I know I will meet them with the extraordinary skills I have obtained through the honor of being a Howley Scholar of Distinction. Without the Howley Foundation, I would not be in this perfect place, nor would I have the confidence that I am worthy of these accomplishments. I am incredibly grateful to The Howley Foundation. I know I will continue to grow academically, personally, and spiritually.

I am very grateful to be chosen as a Howley Scholars of Distinction. Thank you for this opportunity to be in the Merion Mercy class of 2026. I am delighted that I am attending Merion. Here, we have a very strong sense of community and sisterhood. On my visit day, the people I met made me feel like I already belonged here, and we remain close friends today. Merion also had the most challenging academics of any other school I considered. My favorite class is Honors Spanish. Even though my language background was weak coming from grade school, I am very excited about learning Spanish now, and I am making great strides. I love my teacher, Mr. Crossland.

I am also very grateful that here in my first year, I have made many friendships that I believe will last a lifetime. Music has long been a very important part of my life, and here I have the opportunity to grow and explore across many musical formats. I participate in three music groups: Orchestra, Chorale, and a Flute Trio. I also started guitar lessons this year, and I have fallen in love with the instrument. I play piano, flute, and guitar, and hope to learn more instruments as I go. Outside of school, I take piano lessons and am a member of the Rowan Youth Orchestra at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey. Aside from musical activities, I ran on the Cross Country team in the fall, and I also participate in the Film & Discussion Club. I know I am in the perfect place for me to grow and develop academically, spiritually, and emotionally. I extend my great thanks to the Howley Foundation, and I am honored and grateful to be named a Howley Scholar of Distinction. Because of you, I have been able to become a part of the Merion Merion community and all the amazing experiences and opportunities that otherwise I would not have. I am very grateful for your support.