Fraternity-Testvériség, 2003 (81. évfolyam, 1-4. szám)

2003-07-01 / 3. szám

FRATERNITY

Page 27

Degree, which would allow me to teach art at college or university level. Becoming an educator has been a dream that I am wholeheartedly pursuing. I believe I can realize this dream with determination, the continued support of my family and friends, and as always, a bit of good fortune. It was an honor to receive the gift of the HRFA.”

Shannon Nagy, member of Branch 182, Flint, Michigan: “Throughout my life, I have been greatly influenced by my family, my faith, and my Hungarian heritage. Most recently, I have spent most of my time focusing on school and its happenings. I am a student at Michigan State University, where I am currently a sophomore studying Business Marketing and plan to pursue a law degree after completing my undergraduate studies. I live in East Lansing, Michigan, full-time, although I am from Flint, Michigan, where I have lived all of my 19 years.

When I am home visiting, or on holidays and summers, I attend the Heritage Church of Davison, Michigan. I have attended this church all of my life, even in the past when it was the Hungarian Reformed Church of Flint. I have participated in many Sunday School events and plays throughout our many years at the church. Most recently, I sneaked a cabbage roll meal while stopping in to pick up others’ orders on a weekend break, which was very enjoyable to me due to my unusual eating habits at school.

During my summers, I teach swim classes to young children at Kearsley High School in Flint, and I also teach water aerobics to adults. It brings me great joy and a sense of accomplishment to make children happy and to bring satisfaction to adults. It is something that I have participated in since I was 15 years old, and plan to pursue in the future. In addition, this past summer, I had the opportunity to work with adults and children of different nationalities through the International Institute of Flint. I also had the chance to learn a great deal about different cultures, languages, and ways of life. It was to my great advantage to have had the opportunity to be involved in the programs that the International Institute provides.

I am blessed in so many ways because I have the opportunity to attend a wonderful college, to have a wonderful family and church, and to have such a strong faith that gives me extraordinary hope for what the future holds.”

Mike A. Tothfalusi, member of Branch 176, Gary, Indiana: “I am currently enrolled at Indiana University Northwest, where I am a Business major with concentrations in Accounting and Finance. I have a cumulative GPA of 3.51. Upon graduation, I plan on pursuing a career in either the automotive industry or a career with an accounting firm.

I am quite proud of my Hungarian heritage, and later in life I plan on pursuing a career in foreign affairs to better

assist my fellow Hungarians, both here in the U.S. and in Hungary. I attend Hungarian functions as frequently as my schedule allows, and I always appreciate the opportunity to mingle with my Magyar companions.

I also revel in the fact that I am able to both speak and understand Hungarian, even though I was bom in the United States; this is due in large part to the efforts of my grandmother, who spent much time with me while I was very young. This ability has helped me greatly in life to better understand the cultures of others, and assist them in understanding the importance of their heritage.

In closing, I would like to thank the HRFA, whose local members have always supported me through my education and life shaping experiences. Specifically, I would like to thank Kathy Mischak, Branch Manager, and lifelong family friend; the Kovács family, who have always lent a helping hand to my family and me; and to my parents, who signed me up for membership with the HRFA, and who have always supported me in all my interests, both social and academic.”

Adriane Ven, member of Branch 151, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania: “For the past two years I have been a student a Sewickley Valley Hospital School of Nursing. During and since graduating from Blackhawk High School, I have enjoyed being involved with school, church, and community functions. I am a member of Christ the Divine Teacher parish where I am involved with the youth group. I have helped direct and coach singing for the Easter presentation, Christ’s passion, and the Living Nativity. I have also participated in singing trips to local nursing homes, the Cribs for Kids program, Santa’s breakfast, and spaghetti dinners.

While still in school, I did the March of Dimes and helped with the Special Olympics. I have taken part in the Red Cross blood drive and food drives. Nursing school has been a huge part of my life for the past two years. From nursing I have met countless people, learned how knowledge and compassion go hand in hand, and that a simple hello and smile can brighten someone’s day. After receiving my diploma from the RN program, I will continue on towards my Master’s Degree. Thank you for the scholarship.”

Mike A. Tothfalusi with Branch Manager Kati Mischak.