Madeline Casanova

Madeline CasanovaMadeline started her journey off to college in the Fall of 2009. As a freshman at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, she plans to major in pychology with a minor in peace studies. Once she finishes her undergaduate work at Notre Dame, Madeline plans on earning a master's degree.

"I would love to do missionary work in the states or overseas. Upon my return, I would like to pursue a career in criminal psychology or work with the disadvantaged in our society in some capacity," she said. "Eventually, I would like to marry and raise a big family of my own."

Madeline applied for this scholarship in order to help her parents in financing her education. As a member of a large family, she knows what it's like to work hard and fight hard.

"I am the fourth of eight children of Rick and Peggy Casanova. Being raised in a large household, I have been taught to always share, eat fast, and wash my hands. In my youth, I learned some of life’s most valuable lessons - life is not fair, you have to work for what you want, and you can achieve anything you set your mind to," she said.

Getting to know Madeline ... Some Q & A's

What did receiving this scholarship from the Relief Association mean to you?

I was extremely honored and grateful to be the recipient of this scholarship. The generosity of the LAFRA organization will allow me to have more options for my future. My father is so proud to be a Los Angeles City Firefighter and it means so much to be honored by this organization that provides so much assistance to firefighters, their families and the community.

How will this scholarship help you with your education?

Receiving this scholarship will allow me to supplement my educational expenses. It will allow me to attend one of the most prestigious universities in the nation and compete as an athlete for the Fighting Irish in Track and Field. This scholarship will reduce the amount of money I need to take in loans, as well as the number of hours I will need to work during my first year.  Most importantly, it will allow me to focus more on my academics, especially during my first year of studies.

What advice do you have for future scholarship recipients?

Stay for the entire two hours to write your essay; be passionate and write with feeling. Most importantly, be patient waiting for the results, because when the phone call finally comes to let you know that you are the recipient of this scholarship, it is worth the wait!