Scholarship Recipient Speech – Rebecca M.
Rebecca M. is a Boston University student, and the 2015-2016 Grand Worthy Advisor for Massachusetts Rainbow. She made some remarks about her education, and how a scholarship from the Grand Lodge has helped her gain the experience and education she desires. Read her remarks below:
“Thank you for the opportunity to share what a scholarship from Grand Lodge means to me. Currently, I am entering my senior year at Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Boston University pursuing a degree in Speech Pathology and a minor in Deaf Studies.
This past year, I volunteered in the Mass General School of Health Professions in the Speech, Language, and Literacy center. I observed Speech Pathology graduate students work alongside professionals in the field to make a difference in the lives of children with speech difficulties. I was able to observe a young boy expand his language abilities and get excited about reading out loud to his parents for the first time. The impact that these health professionals had was inspiring because these are skills that our patients will use in their daily lives.
One of the most influential experiences that I have had so far in college was last semester in my clinical processes class when I was assigned to work with a woman who had suffered a stroke. I had ten minutes to work with her and planned a task that would address one part of her particular difficulties. After our session together, the woman thanked me and moved on to the next student’s session. This woman had volunteered to attend over a dozen practice sessions, all because she was dedicated to improving her speech abilities. This showed me the importance of the work that I will do and the need that there is for competent physicians in my field.
Entering my senior year, I currently owe $20,000 in student loans. Taking advantage of three employment opportunities helps with incidentals such as books and supplies. I have also stayed involved in community service, because I feel it is important to give back to my community, and have served a year as Grand Worthy Advisor of Massachusetts. Your commitment to helping students pursue their education has afforded me the opportunity to give a voice to those who would otherwise be silent. Once again, I would like to thank you for this opportunity.”