THIS is in response to Ms. Jennifer Angello’s letter on June 14.
My name is Catherine Cepeda, one of the selectees to attend Stanford University under the Junior Statesmen of America. I would like to say that Ms. Angello made a point in mentioning our government’s financial condition and the state of the local economy. I myself withdrew from the program due to the amount of money needed to be brought up. I know that we are both glad we were chosen, and had the opportunity of a “Once in a life time” experience and surely our parents are, too. But if it will cost our government so much amount of money to send us to the university, and if we cannot even purchase whatever necessities needed by our schools here in the CNMI, then forget it. At the same time fund-raising will be so much of a hassle when our economy isn’t that good.
For those leaders and the people in the community who donated money so that we can attend the schools, thank you so much! However, I rather stay back for the summer and learn about both America and the CNMI government just sitting in my own home with my parents who are knowledgeable about the issue, and at the same time spend some quality time with them. The money given to me could be saved by the government for our future use, such as funding for scholarships and grants.
Lastly, I would like to congratulate all those who are going to attend the universities and especially to those three that got full scholarships. Good luck and have a safe trip.CATHERINE CEPEDA
As Matuis, Saipan
