Hard work paid off for two 8th-grade students at West Carrollton Middle School. Tina Nangabire and Mahaylah Ramsey were recently notified by the Montgomery County Ohio College Promise that they were selected to receive a College Promise Program Scholarship.
55 students from across Montgomery County were selected following an application process. Tina said, “I was happy to find out I was getting it. Having a scholarship will help.” Mahaylah agreed, saying, “It will help to cover expenses and make it easier for my family and me.”
Both young ladies will have a mentor who will meet with them weekly when they begin High School. The mentor will provide support, guidance, and encouragement throughout their High School years and help to prepare them for college.
Both Tina and Mahaylah are interested in a career in the medical field. Tina would like to be a pediatrician because she likes working with kids. Mahaylah would like to be a nurse or a physician’s assistant because she likes helping people and talking with them.
They are both involved in activities inside and outside of school. Tina is part of the orchestra, participates in solo and ensemble performances, and is in ROX (a girls’ leadership group). She would also like to be in sports when she goes to High School and is considering soccer and tennis. She enjoys volunteering at her church, reading, and hanging out with her family and friends.
Mahaylah is in the student council, ROX, BPA (Business Professionals of America), cheer, softball, and the National Junior Honor Society. Outside of school, she takes a tumbling class, is part of her church's youth group, and enjoys hanging out with her family and friends.
When asked what makes West Carrollton special, Tina said, “The groups, clubs, and opportunities you can be involved in. Everyone is nice and supportive.” Mahaylah said, “They give kids credit and make us feel proud. I love the diversity and how they make sure everyone fits in.”
Both have been inspired by teachers they currently have or have had in West Carrollton. Tina said, "Mr. Frazier pushes us to do better. Mrs. Jackson made everything fun and was really supportive, and there if I needed someone to talk to. Mrs. Newell teaches my robotics and medical detective classes, and she makes it fun. She's also my ROX leader and cares about the students."
Mahaylah said, "Mrs. Barter introduced me to gifted classes. Miss Nolan is relatable and open-minded. School Counselor Mrs. Wertalik is my ROX leader and has really helped me, and School Counselor Mr. Kirk helps us stay organized in student council and helps when we need it. Mr. Malcolm is very involved with students, and I can tell he cares."