UMAA Legacy Scholarship Profiles

Awarded 2009 - 2010

Katie Kuretski

Why did you decide on the University of Miami?
Ever since I was a little girl, I have always dreamed of attending the University of Miami. Born and raised a ’Cane, I have attended almost all the home football games these past 18 years. My first Miami Hurricanes game I went to was when I was about 3 weeks old, and we beat the Florida State Seminoles. Even though I am so excited for all the athletic events and football games, there’s a lot more Miami has to offer, and that made the decision simple for me. I love everything about the University – its location, size, atmosphere, diversity, educational opportunities, and that feeling I get when I walk into the bookstore and see all that orange and green.

Why is the UM Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship important to you?
When I received my letter in the mail from the UM Alumni Association about the Legacy Scholarship, I was so excited and honored. I am so proud to receive this scholarship and to join the Hurricane family. This scholarship means a lot to me. Not only will it help my family and me financially, but it will help make my dream come true, as it will allow me to attend the school I’ve always wanted to attend – the University of Miami.

Who is the legacy that qualified you for this scholarship?
My dad, Jim, and his brother, my Uncle John are alumni. Also, both of my sisters, Jenn and Kim, currently attend the University of Miami.

What will you study?
I plan on majoring in Nursing and eventually becoming a Pediatric or Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

Awarded 2008 - 2009

Daniel Gonzalez

Why did you decide on the University of Miami?
Ever since I was a kid, I have always wanted to attend the University of Miami because my father attended the university and constantly recounts stories of his experiences and the quality of the education he was given there.

Why is the UM Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship important to you?
I was accepted into the university this year and was awarded several scholarships to aid me in paying the tuition. However, when the bill came, I discovered that I was still short about $1,900. I felt bad because aside from having to pay my tuition, my father would have to pay my sister’s tuition as well because she is also currently attending UM. The following day I received a letter from the University of Miami Alumni Association, opened it, and to my astonishment, found that I had been awarded the Legacy Scholarship. I was so shocked, that I read the letter about 4 or 5 times to reassure myself that it was real. I quickly ran to my dad to show him the letter. I was so happy that I received this scholarship because now I could finally help my father, after he had helped me so much, pay for my tuition. Our worries are over thanks to this scholarship; it is truly a blessing.

What will you study?
I intend to major in Biomedical Engineering because it combines all of the subjects that I enjoy most.

Awarded 2007 - 2008

Melanie Jones

What does the UM Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship mean to you?
As a recipient of the UM Legacy Scholarship I would like to state what an honor it is to be acknowledged by the Alumni Association, a cornerstone and support system for the University of Miami. As a transfer student from Ohio State University, the UMAA Legacy Scholarship gave me the ability to feel at home in Coral Gables instantly. It showed me I was welcome here, and not only that I belonged, but that I had people here waiting and willing to support me.

Who is the legacy that qualified you for this scholarship?
My grandmother, Simi Pearlman, known as Simi Fox when she graduated from the University of Miami. She couldn't be prouder of my acceptance into UM and the strong bond we will share when I become an alumna.

What are you currently studying and when will you graduate?
In the fall I will start my Junior year majoring in English with a concentration in Creative Writing as well as a minor in Judaic Studies, with the expectation of graduating in May 2010. What I look forward to the most this upcoming school year is my internship with the Jewish Community Center (JCC) where I will interview a Holocaust Survivor and later present their story to other JCC members, and in the process establish rich friendships with all participants.

What are your plans after graduation?
My dream is to become a writer - write for comedians, or sitcoms, or any facet that combines writing and humor. I believe that comedy is the best medicine for all pain.

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Yonit Rosengarten

What does the UM Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship mean to you?
This scholarship is important to me for both practical and personal reasons. I was always taught that education is one of the most important things a person can attain. My father always told me that one thing, that no one could ever take away from me is my education. In contemporary times, a college education is required and at times expensive, so I appreciate the added financial help from the legacy scholarship. It also means a lot to me personally to be granted this scholarship. I feel honored to be recognized by the Alumni Association and to be given this opportunity because of my father’s alumnus status at the university.

Who is the legacy that qualified you for this scholarship?
My father is the UM legacy. He attended both undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Miami.

What are you currently studying and when will you graduate?
I am expected to graduate in May 2010 with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in History.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I am hoping to attend law school.