Claire Knauss, ‘25

Supported by the Pauline & Shirley Smith Scholarship

“Receiving a scholarship helped ease any anxieties I have had about affording my degree. I want my donors to know that their support made a huge difference to me and did not go unnoticed. A college education shapes our futures, and the uncertainty of whether we can afford it gets in the way for far too many of us.

“For anyone worried about affording college, I would tell them that they are making a wise financial decision by choosing to pursue higher education at Chesapeake College. I’d also tell them to apply to every scholarship they possibly can and fill out the FAFSA every year.

“My future plans are to transfer to Salisbury University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Film Studies with a minor in Sociology.

“There are far too many memorable moments from my time at Chesapeake College because I was part of the Student Government Association (SGA)! I helped plan and host many on-campus events. I made so many connections and met people who I now consider my best friends.”

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Isaiah Robinson, ‘25

Supported by the Herman F. & Dorothy Mielke Family Endowment Fund

“Being a first-generation college student, you have to worry about so many things: a job to support yourself, earning good grades, maintaining and nurturing friendships, providing for your family, and being the first in your family to blaze the path to a degree. Having all of those things on your plate is a lot. I am very thankful that, [because of my scholarships], money was not a stressor for me.

“I would give this advice to those worried about the cost of college: if you were working a lot before you came to Chesapeake College, you may have to cut your hours back. But scholarships can help fill the financial need gaps you may have.

“My future plans are to attend Washington Adventist University to receive a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. I’d also like to further my education by also attaining my master’s in music therapy and a Ph.D. in music.

“One memorable moment for me, during my time at Chesapeake College, was when the TRiO program took students to complete a ropes course. I had so much fun and felt care free. I could relax and forget about which assignment was due and just be a kid outside again!”

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Joseph Collins

Supported by the Caroline High School Alumni Association Scholarship

“Coming into college, by far my biggest concern was finances; the last thing I wanted was to be weighed down with student debt. Receiving my scholarship took a significant weight off my shoulders and allowed me to focus better on my schooling. To my scholarship donors: your donations really can change the lives of their recipients. Funding these scholarships has to be pound for pound one of the best ways to inspire positive change in your community and the world. Thank you so much!

“[For those worried about the cost of college], there are so many options for financial aid; use as many as you can! First and foremost, take advantage of institutional scholarships, but also make sure to look into state and federal funding; programs like the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship can be a lifesaver.

“I’ve decided to pursue finance at the University of Maryland College Park. Ultimately, I hope to pursue a law degree. After school, I am strongly considering seeking a position as a judge advocate.

“One of my most memorable moments at Chesapeake College was my first Calculus I exam. It was very stressful, but with the help of my wonderful professor, Ms. Sarah Sewell, doing well even in Calculus was far from impossible. That first test was when I realized that although it was going to be challenging, it was that challenge that made it so much fun.”

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Cindy Rodriguez

Supported by the T.R.E.E.S. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Scholarship

“Receiving this scholarship helped get my foot in the door to a career dedicated to helping others. I want Mr. DeLuca to know that I am very grateful for his generosity in providing this opportunity to me. Without this scholarship, I probably would still be trying to save up to take the CNA course. Now I am getting my prerequisites done for nursing school.

“[For someone worried about the cost of college] I would tell them not to worry. It is not impossible and there are a lot of scholarships and generous donors willing to support.

“In the future, I plan to become a registered nurse. Once I’ve completed my RN, I might even go for a nurse practitioner program.

“I cherish all the memories I have made so far at Chesapeake College. I appreciate all the new friends I have made and the knowledge I have and will continue to acquire. Thank you!”