Commonwealth University-Lock Haven Sophomore Receives 2 Scholarships

Melanie Jorge, of Warminster, is the recipient of Commonwealth University-Lock Haven's Constance Irvin Pursley Memorial Scholarship and the Shades of LHU Legacy Scholarship for the 2023-24 academic year.

Jorge, a sophomore English major with a focus on technical writing, boasts a 3.7 GPA. She is president of Lock Haven's Latino Student Association (LSA) and also works as a student employee at the media and circulation desk in Stevenson Library.

Originally drawn to The Haven by its affordability and by the recommendation of a friend, once she landed on campus, Jorge developed a great appreciation for the university's small class sizes that she believes make it easier to establish authentic relationships that extend beyond the classroom.

"Lock Haven is a fantastic place to pursue higher education. The campus community is incredibly supportive and inclusive, which makes for a comfortable and welcoming environment for all students," Jorge said. "There are also numerous extracurricular activities and clubs that allow students to not only explore their passions, but also to form meaningful connections with their peers."

Jorge also lauds her scholarship as an "absolute game changer" for her Haven experience.

"These scholarships, in their profound generosity, have granted me the freedom to wholeheartedly dedicate myself to my studies and seize opportunities that might have otherwise been out of my reach," Jorge said. "The impact of these scholarships on my life is immeasurable, as they have not only opened doors, but have ignited a fire within me to strive for excellence."

Jorge takes great pride in being a student leader on campus. As president of the LSA, she is passionate about advocating for Latino/Hispanic issues, and she finds it very rewarding when she's able to engage students and create opportunities for her peers to grow and become more involved on campus.

Beyond her academic work and service with the LSA, Jorge is also an intern with the National Society of Leadership and Success, with a goal of establishing a chapter of their prestigious honor society at Lock Haven.

Upon completing her degree from CU-Lock Haven, Jorge intends to keep her professional options open. She is currently considering career paths as a writer, a high school teacher or as a paralegal. Regardless of what the future holds, she is confident that her time at Lock Haven is adequately preparing her for professional success.

"Throughout my Lock Haven journey, I have gained valuable skills in communication and networking that have allowed me to form many meaningful relationships," Jorge said. "Additionally, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the value of hard work and the extent to which it can propel you forward, provided you remain focused, disciplined and committed to achieving your goals.

"My donors' investment in me has not gone unnoticed," she added. "I pledge to always work hard, and make the most of the opportunities they have provided me."