Dominick Maciel, a current senior at Cesar Chavez High School, has recently achieved a remarkable accomplishment by securing a full-ride scholarship for a school of his choice. Through his hard work and dedication, Dominick has proven himself to be an exceptional student, deserving of this prestigious opportunity. In this interview, Dominick shares his journey towards receiving the scholarship and his future aspirations.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about the scholarship you received and how you became a finalist?

Dominick: Absolutely! I received the scholarship through the Quest Bridge College Match Scholarship organization. Quest Bridge is dedicated to providing educational opportunities to academically outstanding students from low-income backgrounds. To become a finalist, I went through a rigorous selection process, which included submitting extensive application materials and demonstrating my academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal background. It was an incredibly competitive process, but I was fortunate enough to make it to the final round.

Q: How did you choose the colleges to apply to, and what made you ultimately decide on Denison University?

Dominick: As part of the Quest Bridge process, I had the opportunity to rank 15 colleges based on my preferences. This allowed me to express my genuine interest in various institutions that aligned with my career goals and personal values. After careful consideration, I chose Denison University because of its strong academic reputation, supportive community, and diverse range of programs. Denison offers a vibrant arts scene, which is perfect for my passion for creativity and expression. It felt like the right fit for me, and I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity to attend. 

Q: How do you feel about being awarded a full-ride scholarship? What impact does it have on your plans?

Dominick: I am beyond thrilled and grateful for this incredible opportunity. Receiving a full-ride scholarship relieves the financial burden that often comes with pursuing higher education. It allows me to focus solely on my studies, extracurricular activities, and personal growth without the worry of student loans or financial constraints. This scholarship has opened up doors for me to explore my interests and further develop my skills in art and other areas. It truly sets the foundation for a successful future and enables me to pursue my dreams with confidence.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals after you graduate from Denison University?

Dominick: After completing my studies at Denison University, I plan to continue nurturing my passion for art and strive to establish myself as a professional artist. I believe that my college experience, combined with the opportunities Denison provides, will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the art world. I aspire to create impactful artwork that resonates with people and contributes to social change. Additionally, I am also considering pursuing a graduate degree in fine arts to further expand my artistic horizons.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to other students who aspire to receive similar scholarships or pursue their passions?

Dominick: My advice would be to never shy away from applying for scholarships or pursuing your passions wholeheartedly. It’s important to put in the effort to excel academically, engage in extracurricular activities, and showcase your unique talents. Seek out guidance from mentors, teachers, and counselors who can provide valuable insights and support. Don’t underestimate the power of networking and building meaningful connections within your areas of interest. And most importantly, believe in yourself and your abilities. With hard work, determination, and perseverance, you can achieve great things and secure opportunities that will shape your future.

Dominick Maciel’s journey from Chavez High School to becoming a full-ride scholarship recipient at Denison University is truly inspiring. His dedication to his studies, passion for art, and commitment to personal growth serve as an inspiration to students everywhere. We congratulate Dominick on this outstanding achievement and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.