STEM-certified high school student, Benya Coleman, announced that she was awarded the Marian Spencer Scholarship from the University of Cincinnati (UC) last Thursday.
Coleman is a graduating senior at the nationally accredited Hughes STEM High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was caught by surprise when she was awarded the Marian Spencer Scholarship at a school gathering by UC’s vice president of enrollment, Jack Miner.
The Marian Spencer Scholarship, awarded to 10 students annually, allows 10 CPS students to receive full tuition, room and board scholarships, along with other opportunities as well. The scholarship is a result of a gift from UC alumnus Jim Goetz, who invested $6 million.
Like any other high school student, Coleman enjoys playing sports, watching thriller movies and working. She once had dreams to write, direct and act movies, as she is a huge Marvel fan.
She currently works at a Cincinnati hospital as part of a school-to-work program. She spoke about how receiving this scholarship has only made her work even harder.
“I enjoy being in a hospital environment, it’s very rare to graduate high school with two years of hospital experience in eight different department,” Coleman said.
Coleman has plans to continue working after she graduates and shadow a few medical professionals at a hospital in New York.
Upon arrival at UC Coleman intends to study medical sciences and has been admitted into the UC College of Medicine.
“I am so excited to start at UC this fall, I have nothing but love and thanks to the entire UC community. I don’t think they understand how they have changed my life for the better. UC makes dreams come true,” Coleman said.
