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Cantwell-Sacred Heart Senior Receives $20K Scholarship
Anne Donofrio-HolterWednesday, May 2, 2018In recognition of Monica Aros' achievements in both academics and athletics, the Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary (CSHM) senior was awarded a $20,000 Foot Locker Foundation, Inc. scholarship. Selected from over 13,000 applicants, Aros is one of 20 students so recognized. The surprise presentation took place on campus April 18 when Foot Locker presented Aros with an oversized replica check.
“Each year, it seems we are inspired even more by the stories and caliber of the students who are selected as our Foot Locker Scholar Athletes,” said Richard A. Johnson, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Foot Locker, Inc. “We are extremely proud to recognize outstanding scholar athletes, such as Monica , and provide much-needed educational opportunities for today’s youth to empower them to succeed.”
Placed in foster care at the age of three, Aros, with a 3.9 GPA, has used both academics and athletics to stay focused and motivated.
"My most interesting classes are AP literature and honors U.S. history," said Aros. "Both teachers definitely make class interactive and interesting. I can definitely say both teachers have prepared me for college."
"We are extremely proud of Monica and all that she has accomplished at CSHM," said guidance counselor Stefania Rossi-Reta. "She is an exceptional student and we know she will do great things in life."
An AP scholar and California State Senate award recipient, while at CSHM, Aros has played volleyball, basketball, soccer, and softball. She has been named best midfielder in soccer and received scholar-athlete awards in all sports she has participated in. Two of her favorite clubs are Girls in Athletics, where she has served as vice president and treasurer, and Faith, Hope and Love.
While school and sports occupy the majority of her time, Aros does enjoy playing ukulele.
"I plan to obtain my bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science and enter law school," she said. "Being part of the foster care system, and having faced some pretty devastating circumstances, I realize how many kids need positive examples. I want kids on the verge of giving up to see how I dealt with things and made it on my own from the ground up."
Undecided as to what college she will attend, "my dream school is the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, but I will probably attend Arizona State or Northern Arizona University."
"I am extremely grateful to Foot Locker for providing me the opportunity to attend a prestigious university without having to worry about expenses," said Aros. "It’s a great feeling to be recognized for the things I’ve done and overcome the past couple of years."Tell a Friend