Your Gifts At Work - Samantha Brain '15
Watch Part 1 of Samantha's story.
Watch Part 2 of Samantha's story.
"My name is Samantha Brain and I am a senior at Lewis University majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Physics. I feel privileged to write to you on behalf of the thousands of Lewis students who received financial support thanks to alumni donors. During my sophomore year, my family experienced unexpected medical and financial hardships, and without financial aid I would not have been able to continue my studies at Lewis. When I had nowhere else to turn, support from donors was the answer to my prayers.
When I first came to Lewis, I didn’t see myself becoming a scientist, but when I met Dr. Jason Keleher I found the best mentor that anyone could ever ask for! He inspired me to aim high and instilled in me a passion for the sciences and the confidence to pursue research. At Lewis my entire outlook on my future changed – I LOVE science! I LOVE research! Lewis opened a door for me – a door to a fulfilling, rich life inspired by curiosity, research, and an endless passion for learning!
Sadly, in my sophomore year my mother suffered a brain aneurysm. We are so blessed that she survived, but she had to spend a great deal of time in the hospital and underwent several surgeries. During this stressful time, my father also lost his job and my family struggled financially. Even though I worked in the Chemistry Department and maximized my student loans, I could no longer afford to stay in school. I resigned myself to the idea that I would have to leave Lewis, and I feared that my dreams of becoming a scientist were over.
Thankfully, I shared my struggles with my mentor, Dr. Keleher, and he referred me to the Financial Aid team at Lewis. They helped me through a financial aid fund for emergency situations like mine, and they explained that these funds come exclusively from donors.
Because of this generosity I have stayed in school and will graduate next May! I have not taken this help lightly, and I have worked hard to make the most of my education. I have participated in the Lewis Undergraduate Chemistry Research Program where I have presented my research at a number of national and local conferences, and last semester I was inducted into the Iota Sigma Pi Women in Chemistry Honor Society.
None of this would have been possible without the help of people who believe in Lewis and care enough to invest in the future of students like me. I am awestruck by their generosity and kindness, and their willingness to help students who they may never meet in person.
I ask you to consider supporting Lewis University so that other students can benefit from a Lewis education. My life has been forever changed for the better, and I promise you that it is my mission to help others in the future as I have been helped."
Lewis Flyer for Life,
Samantha Brain
Class of 2015