Madison Preece is a senior from Murphysboro, Illinois, studying paralegal studies.

Why did you choose SIU?
I chose SIU because it is close to home.

What inspired you to choose your area of study?
I chose my area of study because I love to do research and help others.

What are your hobbies, interests, and/or activity groups that you are currently involved in?
I am currently a member of the Organization of Paralegal Students.

What was your reaction when you learned that you received the Bertrand scholarship?
I was ecstatic! I felt very happy and thankful to receive this scholarship.

What does receiving the Bertrand scholarship mean to you? What difference did it make in your life?
Receiving the Bertrand scholarship made a huge difference in my life by taking away some of the financial burdens of going to college, and allowing me to complete my educational goals without having to go into major debt.

How has the donor’s generosity impacted your view on your education and goals for the future?
The donor’s generosity has inspired me to work hard in everything I do because it truly does pay off. It has pushed me closer to achieving the goals I have set for myself.

How will the Bertrand scholarship help you make a difference in society?
It will allow me to finish my education and become a paralegal where my primary job is to help others. The scholarship has also encouraged me to give back to society financially in the future.

Why should donors consider establishing a scholarship fund for students?
It really pushes students to work hard and allows students to complete their education without having major debt.

Has receiving this scholarship inspired you to give back to SIU in the future?
This scholarship has inspired me to give back to students in the future if I am financially able to. The generosity of the Bertrands has had a huge impact on my life and it would be great to make an impact in other students’ lives.

How would you like to support SIU students in the future?
In the future, I would be interested in creating a scholarship for students like me.

Do you have a message that you would like to share with Mr. and Mrs. Bertrand?Thank you very much for granting me this scholarship. This scholarship has encouraged me to work to my full potential and will enable me to finish my college career without having to worry about major financial burdens.

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