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"Patriotism is not a passive feeling or emotion, but a dynamic duty."
In high school, Matthew Skaruppa participated in a leadership retreat in mock state government, where he ran for office, made public appearances and engaged in debate. The retreat was sponsored by the American Legion, and while it introduced him to the inner workings of state office, it reintroduced him to the idea of patriotism. "Before this life-changing week, I had always viewed myself as a patriot, while taking for granted the efforts of those who came before me," he says. "Thus, in order to become an active patriot, I have decided that I want to run for political office someday and help serve the country."
But first, Matthew will continue his studies in chemical engineering. He recently was recognized for having the highest GPA in his sophomore chemical engineering class.
Matthew plans to graduate in June 2004 and would like to own his own firm before entering the world of politics.
Sarah Neal
Graduate Scholar
Rockhurst University
Juliane Maximo
College Scholar
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Jeffrey Miller
Graduate Scholar
Harvard University
Zoe Worrell
Graduate Scholar
University of Maryland