 | Navy dependent Miracle Barnes received her second $3,000 USA Funds/ThanksUSA scholarship to continue undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Accepted into the College of Applied Health Sciences, Miracle majors in Interdisciplinary Health with a concentration in Health and Aging. Ultimately, Miracle plans to pursue a career in physical therapy. |
| The Barnes family is stationed in Sigonella, Italy. After graduating from a Department of Defense high school, Miracle completed her first year of undergraduate studies through the University of Maryland University College’s online program. “Although I enjoyed traveling Europe for a year and a half, I am thrilled to be at the college of my dreams in the United States.” Though far from her family, Miracle has embraced campus life. She serves as LAMP Editor for the Delta Zeta sorority and enjoys volunteering at Orchard Downs Preschool. Miracle also promotes the health and well being of elementary school students through the Walking School Bus program. Ultimately, Miracle hopes to provide care to military personnel. “My greatest ambition is working with wounded warriors. As a military child, I have seen the struggles of our men and women in uniform. I desire to provide care and support to return them to a normal life. My education will provide me the opportunity to give back to the community that has provided so much to my family and I.” The oldest of four children in a single-income family, Miracle has taken full financial responsibility for her education. “Because of the USA Funds/ThanksUSA scholarships, I have been able to pursue my dreams at a spectacular university -- the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Through this scholarship, I have gained a viable means for financial aid, been afforded the opportunity to take classes, and have received recognition for my hard work. Receiving the USA Funds/ThanksUSA scholarship is incredibly humbling and once again, I say thank you.” |
