Iolanda Ferrara

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“There is a quote which I live by and truly appreciate, ‘If you are lucky enough to find a way of life that you love, find the courage enough to lead it.’ In 2006, I found employment with a CPA firm as a firm administrator. I was exposed to a world of numbers which I truly began to love. With this exposure to the world of business came my desire to be a part of it.”

  • Program: 2009 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Norton, MA
  • Hometown: Hyde Park
  • Age: 29

Biography

PROFILE: The turning point in Iolanda Ferrara’s life came early, at age 18, when she discovered she was pregnant. Before that moment she had no hopes or dreams. “My now eight year old son was definitely my initial motivation towards a better me and still continues to be the reason I push on.” And push on she did. She maintained a 4.0 GPA at Massasoit Community College (MCC) in Brockton, MA, became an active member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, and volunteered as much time as she could through service projects sponsored by the society as well as volunteering at her son’s school. On top of that, Iolanda continued to work 30 hours a week with the CPA firm. 


INSPIRATION: Iolanda’s family has been her inspiration to succeed. Her son, by all means, is her driving force. Her mother also holds a special place in her heart. “Even though I’m now 26 years old, I still look into my mother’s eyes and know that I am finally making her happy.” Iolanda also looks up to Cathy Brogna, her PLAN counselor at MCC. The PLAN (Proactive Learning Assistance Network) program provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements, and serves to motivate students towards the successful completion of their postsecondary education. “Cathyis a wonderful and smart woman, always upbeat and anxious to help. By helping me in so many different ways she truly influenced me both academically and personally. She inspired me to always be more and give more than expected.”

ASPIRATION: Once her undergraduate studies are completed at Bentley University, Iolanda will continue her education towards a Master’s of Taxation Degree and will begin preparations to become a Certified Public Accountant. Bentley also offers a Service Learning Program, which Iolanda hopes to get involved in.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: She jumped at each and every volunteer opportunity that came her way through the many projects initiated by her college’s honor society. Iolanda is also a fixture with the parent guild at her son’s grammar school.

ACCOLADES: Iolanda said receiving the Foundation’s Scholarship is “truly the highest honor I have ever received.” In addition, she was honored as MCC’s 2009 Presidential Scholar for her academic achievements. She was a member of Phi Theta Kappa at MCC, and was involved in various community activities through the PLAN program.


INTERESTING FACT: Recently Iolanda went parasailing. Anyone who knows her may want to see the pictures as proof because it is well known she has a fear of heights. “My eyes stayed closed almost the entire time, but I did it!”

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