Meet the 2019 Scholars

Get to know the hopes, dreams, and talents of this year's winners.

Marcelo S.

Undergraduate Recipient

"Choose one inspirational quote or motto that has helped you throughout your journey with cystic fibrosis. How do you live by your quote or motto and how has it motivated you to accomplish your goals?"

One of the greatest musicians of all time, John Lennon, once said, "Everything will be okay in the end; if it is not okay, it is not the end." As a result of my CF, I know that I will often feel as if my life will be coming to its end since my lungs will slowly give out over time, but Lennon's quote has inspired me and motivated me in one extraordinary way to not worry about the demise which will be brought upon me by my CF. In short, Lennon's quote has motivated me in becoming a more faithful person. In my perspective, ''the end" is referring to death. It is of my understanding that God is the one who will judge you in the end. For this reason, I have grown a closer relationship with God because if I feel a connection strong enough to Him, then there should be nothing to worry about, for "the end" will be the beginning of eternal happiness. In more detail, Lennon's quote has motivated me to pray every single night before I sleep, giving thanks for the wonderful life He has given me. It is through Him and with Him that all my fears of death are expelled which is one of my greatest comforts because not fearing death allows me to accomplish my goals by living in the present and not worrying about the frightening future.

Marcelo S.'s Artwork

Marcelo S.'s Achievements

  • Varsity Tennis Player (2015-2019)
  • The Landing Alzheimer's Care (2017)
  • Oncology Research Internship (2019)
  • Lackland AFB Immigration Shelter (2017-2018)
  • Vocational Bible School Group Leader (2018)
  • CRIT Teleton Rehabilitation (2018)
  • Laredo Public Library Volunteer (2018)
  • National Hispanic Scholar (2018)
  • National Honors Society (2018-2019)
  • National Spanish Honors Society Member (2018-2019)