Name:
Leah Vercelli

Hometown:
Elgin, Illinois

Residence on campus:
Jaeger Hall

Class Year:
Freshman

Major/Minor:
Health Science major with a minor in Spanish

Future aspirations: 
I hope to go to medical school after graduating and become a pediatrician.

Hobbies/Interests:
Mainly music, I play the guitar and the clarinet. I am also on the Programming Board where I help with hosting student events on campus like the talent show and Club Neon. We plan social activities for students on campus and bring in a variety of entertainment. 

Favorite spot on campus: 
Probably the dorm rooms, just hanging out with friends and walking around. 

Favorite meal from the Coal Ben:
Chipotle Chicken Wrap

Favorite memory on campus:
It would probably be orientation and being able to meet all the new people.

Why did you choose to attend Benedictine University?
It was really strong in science which was what I was looking for, and it was smaller. I also received a scholarship.

Do you currently hold any positions on campus?  In clubs, organizations, offices? 
I am a member of the American Medical Student Association and Programming Board.

Which scholarship did you receive? 
The Benedictine Award – full tuition.

What has this scholarship done for you/mean to you?
It means that I can graduate without having tons of debt afterward, and I will be able to start my career and life sooner without having to worry about paying off school.

Could you have made it through school without this scholarship?
I would have had a lot of debt after graduating. My parents are supporting me with my housing costs, but they definitely would not have been able to afford the whole amount of tuition and living expenses. It would be much, much harder if I didn’t have a scholarship.

What would you say to the donors/philanthropists that made your grants and awards possible?
I would tell them that I really am very thankful and they are giving me the ability to go on to the career I want. With the career I’ve chosen, I will be able to give back to other people who need help in the world. It makes my education so much easier that I can focus on my studies instead of the financial part.

What is the best part of being a member of the Benedictine community? 
I really like how the school promotes diversity. Sometimes, when you go to schools that don’t promote diversity, you aren’t prepared for the real world where people are different from you. It is a reality check. I’m able to learn from people who aren’t just like me. I really feel like I am part of a family and that everyone is willing to help you.

When you graduate from Benedictine University, what do you look forward to most?
Knowing that I’ll have a good education behind me that will get me into medical school is definitely something that will be nice. Once I am successful in my career, I look forward to being able to give back to the University and be able to support students like I was supported.