Delmar, Sophomore

Delmar said he knew in the 7th grade, "The only way I would be able to attend college is by receiving scholarships. I told myself that I was going to have to be either an amazing athlete or the best student."

He hit Zion (IL) Benton High School in far north suburban Chicago like an F5 tornado, taking an active role in the classroom and taking part in just about every activity and club he could find. Delmar worked hard and played hard as a student-athlete. He took advanced placement classes; was a member of many school and community clubs; attended leadership conferences; performed important community service projects; competed in sports − including serving as captain of the wrestling team for four years and adding football and track and field in his senior year; and held a job to pay for his own way.

"I was everywhere! I had tons of fun and was still able to get my school commitments taken care of," Delmar said. "I believe that I wouldn't be the person I am today if I wasn't as involved as I was in high school."

Delmar in a variety of locationsScholarships and Work

Six members of the Fall 2006 incoming freshman class received the inaugural full-ride Trustees Scholarship, and Delmar was one of them.

Selection for the highly competitive scholarship is based on academic achievement including ACT/SAT scores, high school class rank, grade point average, leadership experience and extracurricular and community service activities.

"I am overly excited that the University believed in me enough to award me this scholarship so I could have the college experience," he added. "The many events and classes that I will get to participate in are going to be more than I ever imagined. They will provide me with enough knowledge, experience and courage to tackle the real world.

"Giving these scholarships gives kids, like me, hope. There is nothing more fulfilling than having a university wanting YOU to attend their school. This feeling is far bigger than the monetary worth of this scholarship," Delmar said.

He also received a Residential Scholar Initiative Program room cost waiver, a Minority Achievement Book Scholarship and scholarships from his hometown community. Plus, Delmar works as an information desk clerk in Henninger Hall.

Twister Reading

Delmar may not be an F5 twister yet at Western, but he is building a whirling-paced activity base as a member of Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and a member of the hip-hop dance team House Arrest II. He served as president of his Fall 2006 pledge class for Delta Upsilon. And the "rookie" member of House Arrest II keeps extra busy with weekend travel and performances.

What do you like best about Western?

"My favorite things about Western have to be Greek life on campus, the small town feeling and the recreation center. I have so many people in the Greek community, which has also helped me to network with administration and faculty," Delmar said.

"The small town feeling is amazing. I love the country setting. I used to visit my family down in Alabama once a year, and now I get to  live in that type of setting. I love going to the rec and working out. Intramural sports provide me with the feeling of being on a team that I miss from high school," he added.