The Community Foundation for Crawford County is pleased to introduce Melanie Wheeler, a 2024 recipient of one of the 20 Margaret and Donald Wenner, MD Scholarship awards.
Melanie, the daughter of Thomas Wheeler, Jr. and Marcia Wheeler, is a 2022 graduate of Galion High School. She is in her third year of a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education at The Ohio State University- Marion.
What is your favorite aspect of college life and why?
"In college, I really enjoy meeting new people. I enjoy learning in an environment of peers that have the same academic interests and passions as I do!"
What new interests or courses of study have you discovered at college?
"Throughout my time in college, I have continued to learn that I love to work with young students. As I take courses and have field placements in various local schools, I continue to grow in my passion of working with kids!"
In what way has the college experience changed/improved you?
"While in college, I have learned a lot about myself and have experienced many positive changes in my life. I have learned to be very organized and proactive in getting my assignments done. It has helped me to improve keeping a clear and organized schedule, which has in turn, not only improved my life inside of school, but also outside of school."
What advice would you give an incoming college freshman?
"The main piece of advice I would provide to an incoming freshman is to find a balance that works for you. Your life cannot be all about school, but it also cannot be only personal. Finding a balance that allows you to keep up with school work, but not drown yourself in constant work, is crucial to being successful. You have to take time for yourself in a manner that balances well with your academic requirements."
What is one item on your bucket list and why?
"One item on my bucket list is to volunteer in a children's hospital. This is because during my time of staying in a children's hospital, the volunteers that would come in and bring snacks, or do crafts, or just spend a little bit of time with me each day really made my experience much better! I would love to be that little piece of happiness for someone in an experience that is not always so positive."
Congratulations and good luck in the future, Melanie!
To learn more about the scholarships offered through the Foundation, visit www.cfcrawford.org/scholarships
