Discus Award Winner
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Melinda Marchiano
12th Grade, CA
ATTRIBUTES
Community Service
Diagnosed with cancer at age 13, the pathway of my community service was virtually chosen for me. Now a cancer survivor, I am greatly involved in cancer advocacy in my community. I speak at various fundraisers for organizations like the American Cancer Society, Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, and Children's Miracle Network. Further, I wrote a book about my cancer experience and donate proceeds from sales to childhood cancer research, ect., as well as do book signings at events. After receiving a United Way Youth Grant, I placed 5 of my books in 20 different schools in my community and went to speak to the kids about literacy and advocacy. Further, I am a 2011 LiveSTRONG Leader, making me a leading cancer advocate in my community. I recently planned a fundraising event for LiveSTRONG.
Academics
I have maintained a 4.0+ GPA for all four years of high school, and have taken a total of six AP courses. I have also taken an online History course through Allan Hancock College and am currently enrolled in English 11A via BYU. I love the sciences-AP Biology and Chemistry are the favorites of the classes that I have had. I have also won Three Titan awards, granted annually to a single student who excels in the course (Health, Algebra 2, Chemistry). In addition, I have been in the Top Ten of my class every year. I love to be challenged, and find learning new things to be invigorating. I seek learning for knowledge rather than to simply past tests.
Arts
Beginning dance at age 3, I have continued ever since, including through the 6 months of chemotherapy and radiation to treat my cancer. I belong to the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Jazz Dancers, and Nipomo High School Dance Company. I perform regularly with all three companies for annual showcases, as well as community performances at fundraisers, schools, ect. I have performed in the Nutcracker Ballet for 7 years and have been cast in leading roles. I currently dance 6 days a week, about 2-3 hours per day. I am trained in ballet, pointe, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and partnering.
