Students Soar with Scholarship Support

Transcript

Okay, we’re about to meet Ciara, a senior from East Orange, New Jersey who will earn her BFA in acting. Her passion and grit is typical of the thousands of Montclair students who have inspired alumni, friends, and corporate and foundation donors to provide significant financial support for students’ educations in many majors. Take it away, Ciara.

– Thanks Alex. Hey y’all my name is Ciara Chanel, and I am so excited to tell you about my Montclair experience. First a little bit about me. I have always loved the arts from dancing at three, acting at seven, painting, writing, playing the flute, all things creative have kind of just come naturally to me. I attended a performing arts middle school where I won numerous acting awards, and even attended a college readiness program. So I always knew I wanted to go to college. The question was, how could I afford it? My mom had been saving for my college fund since I was younger, but it proved to be more expensive than either of us was expecting. But I knew I wanted to go to a school that was close to the city, and had a great arts program. So Montclair State University was just that. Thankfully I was blessed with two opportunities for scholarship support based on my artistic and academic abilities. This was made possible through outside donors, alumni and corporate sponsors that make sure that students across the campus are supported. Montclair State University continues to open doors for me, not only am I able to hone my craft as an actor, but also as a dancer and student leader. Being a part of residents life, and campus organizations like MSU Players and Complexions Band Dance Team. Now I work at the rec center teaching my own dance fitness classes, and I’ve even been contracted by the university to choreograph their main stage shows. Montclair State University has molded me, into the person I’ve always wanted to be. Confident, independent, outspoken and unapologetically myself. Ah, it’s been wonderful talking to y’all. I really appreciate it. And I’m out Alex.

– Thank you, Ciara. We’ve seen throughout the is college tour, the value of a Montclair education. A central tenant here is that education should be accessible to everyone. More than 71% of Montclair students receive some form of financial aid, and Montclair is recognized by Money magazine on its list of best colleges for your money. Absolutely amazing, take care.