“I’m so happy, I can’t believe it,” says Valeska Barsallo Llamuca, recipient of Cedar Crest College’s Trailblazer Award–a four-year, full tuition scholarship. “This is the greatest gift I’ve ever received. I can’t wait to join the Cedar Crest community.”
Llamuca, a senior at Bethlehem Catholic High School, received the life-changing news on Friday, March 28th, during a surprise reveal on her school’s campus. President Elizabeth M. Meade, Cedar Crest admissions counselors, and Franki the Falcon were there to celebrate, presenting her with flowers, balloons, and the scholarship that will shape her future. As the moment sank in, Llamuca was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude, wiping away tears as her teachers and family cheered for her.
Inspired by a close family member’s experience with autism, she plans to major in psychology and pursue a career as a clinical psychologist, helping children feel more comfortable with themselves. For Llamuca, college isn’t just about academics–it’s about community, and she can’t wait to get involved with the clubs and organizations on campus.
Llamuca competed alongside other local students in this year’s Trailblazer Competition, an opportunity focused exclusively on Lehigh Valley students. More than a dozen applicants will also be awarded partial tuition scholarships.
The future is bright for Llamuca, and at Cedar Crest, she’s ready to make it her own. With the support of her family and a community that believes in her potential, she’s prepared to learn, lead, and leave her mark.