Meet Ava

Name: Ava Capparelli

Class of: 2027

Program: Bachelor of Arts in Education for Licensure

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the alumni and community members whose generosity made this scholarship possible."


What made you choose Southern New Hampshire University, and what do you value most about your experience here?

I chose Southern New Hampshire University because it offers the flexibility I need to successfully pursue my degree. As a first-generation college student who is responsible for paying my own tuition, finding a university that could accommodate both my academic and personal responsibilities was essential. At SNHU, I have the option to take courses online or in-person and adjust my course load as needed. This flexibility has allowed me to balance my education with working 20 hours per week while continuing to make progress toward my degree and career goals.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? How have they made a difference for you?

As a first-generation college student, I am responsible for financing my education independently. Without the support of scholarships and financial aid, pursuing a college degree would not have been possible. I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities, as they have allowed me to continue working toward my academic and professional goals while reducing the financial burden of higher education.

What message would you like to share with the alumni and friends whose generosity made your scholarship possible?

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the alumni and community members whose generosity made this scholarship possible. Your support is making a meaningful difference in my life by helping me pursue a college education that might not otherwise have been attainable. This scholarship eases a significant financial burden and allows me to focus more on my studies, work experience, and professional growth.

Your investment in students like me extends far beyond financial assistance. It provides encouragement, motivation, and confidence that others believe in our potential. I am pursuing a degree in education and hope to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in my future career. Because of your generosity, I am one step closer to achieving that goal.

Tell us about your journey to and through SNHU. What inspired you to pursue your degree, and what are you most proud of so far?

My journey to Southern New Hampshire University began with my passion for working with children and my desire to make a positive impact through education. I chose SNHU because of its flexibility and commitment to supporting students from a variety of backgrounds. As a first-generation college student who is responsible for paying for my own education, I needed a university that would allow me to balance school, work, and personal responsibilities. SNHU has made it possible for me to work 20 hours per week while continuing to make steady progress toward my degree.

One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is maintaining my commitment to both my education and my work in early childhood education. Through my coursework and hands-on experience, I have continued to grow as an educator while overcoming financial and personal challenges. I am also proud to be the first person in my family to attend college, knowing that I am setting an example for others and creating opportunities for my future. Every class I complete brings me one step closer to my goal of becoming a teacher and making a lasting difference in children's lives.

How has receiving scholarship support shaped your experience at SNHU or influenced your future plans?

The support is making a meaningful difference in my life by helping me pursue a college education that might not otherwise have been attainable. As a first-generation student who is responsible for paying for my own education, this scholarship eases a significant financial burden and allows me to focus more on my studies, work experience, and professional growth.

The investment in students like me extends far beyond financial assistance. It provides encouragement, motivation, and confidence that others believe in our potential. I am pursuing a degree in education and hope to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in my future career. Because of your generosity, I am one step closer to achieving that goal.

Has a person, class, or experience at SNHU had a meaningful impact on you? Please share.

I had the privilege of taking two classes with Professor Linda Whitmore, and she made a tremendous impact on my educational journey. Through her thoughtful guidance and detailed feedback on lesson plans, she helped prepare me to become a confident and effective educator. Despite managing the demands of teaching two courses, she consistently maintained a positive and encouraging classroom environment.

Professor Whitmore always went above and beyond to support her students, ensuring our needs were met both inside and outside the classroom. One example that truly demonstrates her kindness and dedication is that she regularly brought baked goods for students. Knowing that I have a gluten allergy, she took the extra step of finding and trying new gluten-free recipes each week so that I could feel included. Her compassion, commitment, and genuine care for her students make her not only an exceptional educator but also an outstanding person.

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