Scholar Stories and Letters
Jeny W | West Philadelphia High School
"White-Williams Scholars is the greatest program in the Philadelphia public school system. Some people don't believe how hard it is for teenagers to keep good grades especially with all the peer pressure there is around them, but White-Williams recognizes and acknowledges it. We have already rewarded ourselves by deciding that we want to receive an education and White-Williams helps us to continue to strive for our goals."
Jeny W, a senior at West Philadelphia High School, penned the above lines for an essay assigned by her creative writing teacher. Jeny has been a Scholar since ninth grade and ranked first in her class last year. "I love being a White-Williams Scholar," she said. "It motivates me to keep my grades up. I think it's an honor because it's hard to excel in a school environment where a lot of kids can make you feel like it's not worth it." As an honor student, track star, and a tutor at an elementary school, Jeny does not hesitate when asked what she thinks is the key to a successful future. "Hard work," she said. "I know the only way I'm going to get to college is to go to school every day and keep my grades up."
Jeny lives with her aunt, Winifred Cleveland, in southwest Philadelphia. Ms. Cleveland attributes Jeny's determination to the difficulties she has experienced growing up. "Jeny's seen her mother and father, as well as her uncles and aunts, struggle and she wants more for herself," said Ms. Cleveland. "She wants to see if she can help society."
Jeny is already making a difference within her own school community. As the Student Leader at West, Jeny spreads the word about White-Williams Scholars to other potential Scholars encouraging them to work for the A's and B's they need to participate in the program. "So many people are trying their best to receive this wonderful gift," she said. She also meets with Scholars who are on probation because their grades have dropped and makes sure they are seeking the help they need. "We all motivate and encourage each other," she said.
Delores Williams, Principal of West Philadelphia High School, believes that the peer support provided by White-Williams Scholars is one of the most important aspects of the organization's program. "The monthly meetings provide opportunities that these achievers wouldn't otherwise have to get together for healthy competition and encouragement," said Ms. Williams. She also emphasized the importance of the monthly stipends. "A lot of our kids need that financial help for school supplies and tokens," she said. "The money also acts as a motivator. It gives students that push that they need to think about going to college, to think about the future."
Jeny has spent her stipends on school supplies, meals, track shoes, and an SAT Prep class at Temple University. Like most Scholars, the majority of her stipend goes for bus tokens. Jeny said, "I save what I don't spend and put it in the bank." Her aunt noted, "Jeny spends her money wisely, unlike many kids her age."
Jeny's discipline and focus will pay off when she attends college. She wants to run track, but she is not relying on a track scholarship. "I'd rather be recognized for my academics," she said. "Because I'm good at science and math, I'll probably major in architecture or engineering." She talks about her dream of rehabilitating dilapidated housing as a way of revitalizing city neighborhoods. She is determined to give back to the community for the support she has received.
"I want to thank the people who contribute to White-Williams Scholars," she said. "I want them to know how much their support means to so many students who are struggling to do their best."
