Bright Minds and the Wallen family are proud to support Wilde Lake High School 2023 graduate Mioulca Joulie Saintilma in her college journey! During her senior year, Mioulca was a recipient of the Laura E. Wallen Memorial Scholarship, awarded to outstanding HCPSS students who demonstrate a commitment to diversity and social justice.
Learn about Mioulca’s college experiences – including advice for current HCPSS students – in her own words below.
Name: Mioulca Joulie Saintilma
High School Attended: Wilde Lake High School
Did you receive any special recognitions, awards, scholarships, grants or honors at graduation?
I was selected to deliver the keynote speech at graduation.
What does the Laura Wallen Memorial Scholarship mean to you?
The Laura E. Wallen Scholarship boosted my confidence and self-worth as I felt recognized and appreciated for my achievements and potential. I am inspired to give back to my community and assist other students from underrepresented backgrounds in achieving their educational goals. I was deeply moved by her values and her vision for a better world. Knowing that I was one of the scholarship winners was a thrilling and humbling experience that filled me with gratitude. I am grateful to have been a part of her legacy.
What college or university do you attend?
Cornell University
If you could pick three words to describe the road that eventually led you to Cornell University what would they be?
Hard-work, Discipline and Dedication.
What is your major?
Biology & Society.
What hobbies, clubs or activities have you joined while in college?
I am involved in several clubs and organizations: Events Chair of ALANA, Volunteer Coordinator of Cornell Hunger Relief, French Volunteer Teacher for the Foreign Language Introduction Program and Praise Team and Choir Member of First Love Church at Cornell.
What is your favorite part of attending college?
Being independent and having the freedom to make my own decisions is one of the most enjoyable aspects of college. It’s an opportunity for personal growth, where I can challenge myself and explore new environments.
Describe your post-college goals/dreams?
I am passionate about becoming a pediatrician and making a positive impact on global pediatric health. Through my own research in high school, I have identified malnutrition as a crucial issue affecting underprivileged children worldwide.
What are some of your favorite memories or experiences from high school?
I had the privilege of attending Wilde Lake High School and it holds a special place in my heart. As a student, I was involved in several extracurricular activities that allowed me to learn about different cultures, make new friends, and give back to the community.
What is one piece of advice you have for future graduating high school students?
The renowned animator Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it,” and I have always lived by this saying. I want to encourage the graduating students of Howard County High School to never give up on their dreams. With dedication, discipline, consistency, motivation, and hard work, anything is possible. Whenever you feel like giving up, remember what you’re fighting for. Fight for your passion to achieve the success that you deserve. With determination and a positive attitude, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to!
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To learn more about establishing a scholarship with Bright Minds, view our scholarship planning guide. Contributions to the Laura E. Wallen Memorial Scholarship can be made via our website HERE, or by check to the Bright Minds Foundation, 10910 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042. Please designate Lauren Wallen in the comment field or memo line.
About Bright Minds Foundation
Bright Minds Foundation is the Howard County public schools education foundation. We work to ensure each child in Howard County has access to the education, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed at school and in life. We do this by bringing together community support for programs and initiatives that increase education access, equity, and innovation. Bright Minds programs respond to the urgent and ongoing needs of children in four areas: digital inclusion and access to learning, literacy & kindergarten readiness, college access, and teacher support & classroom innovation. To learn more and contribute, please visit brightmindsfoundation.org/donate.
