Scholar Spotlight

Jose Ayllon

To the McGowan Scholarship Fund:

A person is capable of achieving many things in life. However, sometimes that road to achievement can become a little challenging. Personally, I can be proud of a great number of things that I have achieved throughout the course of my studies, especially here at Marywood. However, I would have to admit that getting to where I am today has not been easy. It has taken a lot of sacrifice, dedication, effort, but most of all, support. From my family, I have received all the support in the world, as well from my professors, advisers, colleagues, and friends.

Unfortunately, in this case, that was not enough. I needed some financial support, and my Mom and family could not provide me with that particular kind of support. Not having my Dad with me any more makes things very difficult for me and my family. Thanks to God and all the wonderful people that He has sent to help me, I have been able to achieve the success I am very proud of today.

At the end of last academic year, I had decided that I was going to take a semester off, so I could work and save some money to pay for my education. I had explored all my possible choices and nothing seemed to be working out. I thought it was unfair, knowing that I have worked to the best of my ability and suddenly found myself with no other option but to take a semester off. However, once again God was there for me. Right before the semester concluded, I found out about a scholarship sponsored by a great man who, like me, had a dream, Mr. William G. McGowan.

I applied for this scholarship, and a few months later I received a call congratulating me on winning the scholarship. That moment and that call changed my life and my future completely. I still do not have enough words to thank everyone involved in this wonderful fund, for changing my life the way they have. All I can say is that it has been an honor to be the recipient of such a prestigious award. Thank you so much.

God bless you all.

Sincerely, Jose Ayllon