URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – An Urbana senior was recently recognized nationally with the Cameron Impact Scholarship.
Urbana High School senior Mycal Turner was awarded the four-year scholarship which covers tuition, fees, and books at any accredited college or university in the United States.
“What made me different is my ability to articulate the vision I have for academics, how I’ve been working toward that dream and what’s my vision for the future when it comes to academics,” Turner said.
Turner works daily with students at the Urbana Neighborhood Connections Center, created and facilitated professional development sessions geared toward minority students at Urbana High School, and is a mentor. Out of 3,000 students, just 15 are selected to be Cameron Impact Scholars. Students must submit personal essays, letters of recommendation, exhibit strong leadership qualities, be active in extracurriculars, and show strength in academics.
“I’ve realized it’s not always about accomplishments; it’s about the vision and your drive to actually benefit those around you, because anybody can volunteer,” Turner said.
Although Turner is unsure of where to attend, he plans to pursue a dual degree in special education and elementary education. He sets his sights on earning his Masters and Doctorate.
“The job of being a teacher is just mentally straining, like psychologically, it’s just so much that goes on,” said Turner. “But now that I’ve had these experiences, there is no way that I can ignore the calling that God has given me to enter education.”