Ridge AMS in the News

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Congratulations to Ridge High Senior Alexandra Stamateris, winner of the 2008 Ridge Alumni Memorial Scholarship. Ridge AMS supporters wish Alexandra great success and happiness as she pursues her goals.

Here are excerpts from Alexandra's essay:

"Multiple myeloma n: a disease of the bone marrow that is characterized by the presence of myelomas in various bones of the body" (Webster's dictionary). That is what took my mother's life. The thing that left my father with two young children to take care of by himself. The day was July 6th, 1995. I was barely five years old.

My life reached a new normal in the following months, I had a whole new sense of responsibility, things like taking care of my brother and staying strong for him became very important to me, even as a five year old. Ultimately I learned that I was strong and that it was up to me whether or not I wanted to wallow in grief, or get over it and move on with my life. I chose to move on. Now in high school it has become especially apparent to me that trivial dramas.are not important. I know for a fact that your boyfriend breaking up with you is not the end of the world, and that you should waste no tears over the matter.

(My mom) wanted me to go on to college, something she regretted not doing. I have worked hard . (to) get a great education and someday a fulfilling career in my chosen field of study, criminal justice. What I ultimately learned, that thing that I will carry with me for the rest of my days is that life is not fair, but whatever obstacle is thrown my way, I know for certain that I can get through it by myself, with little help from others. Because when times get tough sometimes as the saying goes "you have to just keep on keepin' on". And know that life will eventually get better. Throughout the difficulties I have faced I have been able to maintain my grades, remain emotionally stable, and continue my involvement with my athletic and extra-curricular activities.

I am looking forward to being able to graduate with a diploma from Ridge because of the friends I've made among the students and faculty there. I am greatly looking forward to college, and opening up a new chapter in my life. Regardless of which school I attend receiving this scholarship could make the difference on whether or not I will be able to afford to attend a private university.

Alexandra Stamateris will attend Sacred Heart University in the fall of 2008. She plans to major in Criminal Justice, join the school's Division I Fencing Team, and play in the University band.