2008 Essay Winner:

Why a Catholic Education Is Important:

Luke Waggoner, 8^th Grade, St. Thomas the Apostle School

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION ESSAYS

1. What is the role of Catholic education in Modem America?

Through my nine years of Catholic education at St. Thomas the Apostle School, I have learned a lot about the Old and New Testament of the Bible. The stories and parables found in it stress the values of love, patience, kindness, compassion, integrity, and honesty. These values are obviously not the top priority in today’s modern America, as reflected in the media, television, the Internet, and even video games. If, through Catholic teaching, today’s generation of youth could influence the world around us, we could possibly trigger an emotion far more powerful than any sinful thought — the emotion of the love of Jesus Christ as a basis for actions. We would not only be bringing this love to others in our words, but in our deeds. The Catholic schools here, and around the world, should be teaching their students to embrace these heavenly teachings as a way of life. It is not a simple task, but could eventually have a lasting effect.

2. Why should I be considered for the scholarship to Marian Central?

I believe I should be considered for the scholarship by the Knights of Columbus because I have strived to do the best I can do in all aspects of my life, while not sacrificing my commitment to God and my family. I attend St. Thomas the Apostle School, and in my junior high years there, I have been blessed to be on the High Honor Roll every quarter. Most recently, my Illinois Junior Science Academy science fair project achieved the highest points in the Botany division at the regional competition and my project advanced to the state competition, to be held at the University of Illinois on May 3, 2008. While at St. Thomas, I have participated in the spring musical in 5th through grades and furthered my love for singing and acting. I also am a member of the school track and volleyball teams. More generally, I try to help out my fellow students and teacher whenever I am asked to lend a hand.

Outside of school, I am year-round swimmer on the YMCA Swim Team, another organization founded on Christian values and beliefs. I hope to play on the golf team all four years at Marian. As a service to the community I have volunteered at the Crystal Lake Food Pantry.

I wish to attend Marian Central Catholic High School because I wish to continue to experience the great camaraderie with my schoolmates at St. Thomas and also the faith-based Catholic environment learning environment. I believe that I exhibit a strong dedication and self-discipline in my school and extra-curricular activities. I also know that the struggles to achieve my goals in high school at Marian will provide good lessons about the human spirit and also the necessity to show compassion for others.

I attempt to model the Christian values listed above each and every second of my day. Over the past two years I have changed in my faith. I have started to become more aware of that little voice inside my head, giving some sensible advice here and there to help me along on the path to Christ. The ripple effect I spoke of earlier only needs one willing person to decide that now is the time for a change. I believe in my heart that I could be that person. Finally, I believe that actions speak louder than words. Through my actions, I hope to influence the decisions of others in a Christ-Like way, so that the human race can begin to feel the true Love of God.