Deborah Alonge, an Essex County College General Science major, is the recipient of the Arrigo O. Rogers Scholarship from the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Professional Association of New Jersey.
“I’m honored to receive this scholarship from EOF,” said Deborah, a Newark resident. “The EOF program has helped me so much ever since I started at ECC in 2019,” she added. Deborah serves as Vice President for Hallmarks in the College’s Alpha Theta Theta Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Deborah, who has a 3.81 grade point average, plans to transfer to Rutgers University after graduating from Essex County College, where she will major in Biological Sciences. Her career goal is to become a doctor.
In her scholarship essay, Deborah wrote, “One day, while watching a television program about diseases, I was fascinated and it inspired me to become a physician. Moreover, it saddened me to find out that despite the rate of technological development in the world today, many people still suffer and die from terrible sicknesses that can be treated. Another reason why I want to become a physician is because I would be able to help people get the treatment they deserve.”
In her recommendation letter for Deborah, the College’s EOF Director Joanna Romano wrote, “She exemplifies many of the attributes of a fine EOF student – determined, intelligent and kind hearted. Deborah has been an active member of the EOF “family” here at Essex, participating in our services, forums and also our own chapter of The National Society of Student Leadership and Success,” Ms. Romano added.
“It’s always gratifying to see our students recognized on the state level. Deborah is an outstanding student and I am confident she will realize her goal of becoming a physician and make an impact in the community,” said ECC Interim President Dr. Augustine A. Boakye.
