Meet Germania
Meet a Handler Scholar!
Name: Germania Balbuena Marte
What are you studying at Rochester?
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Minor: Spanish
From: Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
Extracurricular Activities: Business manager of Student organization of Caribbean Awareness and East pen pal, Volunteer for Hospital Elder Life Program
How has the Handler Scholarship impacted your life?
The Handler Scholarship provided me with freedom. As I was applying to universities, I was worried how I alone would be able to cover the college expenses and help my family who at the time resided in the Dominican Republic. Receiving the notice I was chosen as a Handler Scholar, gave me the freedom to merge myself into getting closer to complete my dreams.
What are your plans after Rochester?
After Rochester, I plan to help in the development of neuroprosthetics for people with neurological diseases and disorders. I want to improve people’s quality of life so they can enjoy their lives with their loved ones.
What has been your most meaningful experience as a Handler Scholar?
My most meaningful experience as a Handler Scholar was my induction ceremony. As one by one stood to get their Handler pin, a brief description would be said about us. Hearing everyone’s story was heartwarming which demonstrated me, I was part of a new family. It truly felt endearing to me because since receiving the email of being a Handler scholar, I had felt with imposter syndrome. But meeting everyone that day and hearing how everyone survived their adversities made me feel proud of myself.
What does Meliora mean to you?
Meliora for me is to be a better person. To always thrive to obtain more and never settle.