Now I Can (Part III)

This blog post is part of a larger series titled, “Now I can,” in celebration of Dr. Hans -Peter Wild’s, historic 16.5 million dollar gift to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Inspired by his investment in their education, students across the country shared personal stories of the impact this scholarship has had on their lives. Today, we’re featuring a post written by Joseph Miranda, a freshman at Central Michigan University from Chicago, Illinois.

Education has always been a driving force for me, and as a child I quickly realized that education is the foundation to success. As a freshman studying political science, I often feel challenged by some of the demands of attending a large university, but despite these challenges I remain focused, because my goal is to become the first member of my immediate family to receive a college degree.

Growing up in a military household taught me to remain dedicated to my studies and to remain dedicated to my goals. Every day I am inspired by my father and my brother, who both served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Their service and dedication to this country have encouraged me to strive for excellence in everything that I do, and as a result of their sacrifices, their selflessness and their leadership, I too, have chosen a career of Honor, I too, have chosen to join the U.S. Marine Corps.

I want to show the world that I am dedicated to bettering my future and my community. I have dreams of one day becoming a pilot and an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, and this goal can only be transformed into a reality by staying focused and obtaining my degree – a degree that would not be possible if it weren’t for The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and support from donors, like Dr. Hans-Peter Wild. Because of their selflessness and generosity, I am able to attend my dream school – Central Michigan University.

If I could tell Dr. Wild one thing, it would be – Dr. Wild, you truly exemplify the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Dr. Wild, you have a hand in making my dreams come true, and for that I am forever grateful. Your act of munificence has an impact on so many lives, and I believe there is nothing more powerful than helping another person reach their goal of self-improvement through education. Thank you for seeing the power in education and helping students, like me, change their lives for the better.