Combining the studies of biology and psychology allows Stephanie to explore the two sciences that interest her most. She describes her biology studies as a satisfying “hard facts” education whereas psychology challenges her intellectually. “Psychology is another world in itself. Especially the inner workings of the human mind and the vast differences in cognitive function and in conscience are incredibly fascinating to me,” explains Stephanie.

As Stephanie nears the end of her undergraduate studies, she is deciding which area of medicine she will focus on during her graduate and doctoral studies. Until recently, she was certain that she would specialize in pediatrics. Then she began an internship in the obstetrics and gynecological department of a children’s hospital in Germany. Stephanie says, “I am beginning to consider this to be another viable option. I think the birthing process is absolutely fascinating and I can definitely see myself working in this field.”

Stephanie’s academic record and personal empathy speak volumes about her commitment to helping others. While at New College of Florida, Stephanie volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and YREADS, a YMCA sponsored reading program for underprivileged children. Last summer, Stephanie traveled to Uganda for a Catholic mission to provide orphans with educational opportunities. While there, she worked directly with the residents and volunteered at the medical station. It is clear that no matter which specialty Stephanie chooses to pursue, she will surely make a wonderful physician.

It’s probably no surprise that much of Stephanie’s view of the world and desire to help others was instilled early on as an Army dependent. Stephanie explains, “Being a military brat, as we so fondly call ourselves, certainly has its ups and downs. As a military family, it is not uncommon to have to deal with everything from post-traumatic stress disorder in loved ones, to the loss of close family friends. But in my case, these challenges helped us grow closer as a family. If anything, living the life of a military brat has taught me adaptability and resiliency and has left me well prepared to face the world.”

ThanksUSA is proud to help Stephanie face her future. She reports that receiving the ESA Foundation/ThanksUSA Scholarship was especially significant this year because of unexpected financial hardships. Her grandmother was recently diagnosed with stage four cancer and the Larumbe family committed much of their finances to her care and treatment. Although Stephanie is employed as both a Resident Advisor and lifeguard, her income fell short of tuition. “This scholarship really came at an opportune moment and helped me not only be able to fund my tuition for the semester, but also relieved me in a way that I could spend less time working and more time focusing on my studies,” Stephanie explains.

The ThanksUSA team wishes Stephanie continued academic success and we hope to follow up on her education in the future. A reminder to all college-bound military dependents that ThanksUSA scholarship applications will be available online between April 1 and May 15, 2012. All potential applicants are encouraged to register for a reminder email and as always, every donation helps…Make your tax-deducible donation today!

We close this week’s Scholarship News with a word of thanks from Stephanie:

“I feel honored to have received this scholarship and would like to thank the ESA Foundation and ThanksUSA with all my heart for the help and opportunity they have given me! I am truly grateful for all they have done!”

The Killer Angels (original cover art)

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Welcome back Treasure Hunters! This week we’re going to shift our focus to the second chapter of ThanksUSA’s Treasure Hunt 7, Military Movies. I know that many of our school-aged participants may be a bit young to actually watch some of the material covered in chapter two, but I’m sure that their group leaders, teachers, and parents can help them solve this chapter without viewing the films. Let’s get some hints for solving one of our great clues from Chapter 2, Military Movies:

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8. The 1993 film Gettysburg focuses on battle events as seen through the eyes of prominent members of Union and Confederate armies. The film was based on this author’s book, The Killer Angels.

I know, I know…the chapter is Military Movies and we want you to find the author of a book. Personally, I think you should always read the book before seeing the movie, but here are some additional clues for this question:

** Though awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1975, The Killer Angels has originally been rejected by 15 publishers

** This author’s son established an annual literary award in his honor that recognizes ‘Excellence in Civil Fiction’

** At various times, The Killer Angels has been required reading at many military academic institutions

** The author’s final novel, For Love of the Game, was published posthumously and also made it to the big screen

The first Phase I deadline for TH7 is February 16th. All school/youth group participants who submit correct answers for Chapter 1, Taiwan, or Chapter 2, Military Movies, will qualify for the first prize drawing.

We’ll continue to focus our attention on Military Movies leading up to our first deadline. But…if you ever need assistance with any of the TH7 clues, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment or send a direct email to sherrykoch@thanksusa.org Good Hunting!!