Rice to study marine biology at ODU

To Whom It May Concern:

The ocean is a vast wonderland of mysteries which covers a majority of the earth’s surface. All of life is interconnected to the health and well being of the ocean waters. I wish to explore what lies beneath its crystal clear surface to learn about what few get the chance to do. There is much about it, which we still as of yet do not understand. Through my future research I hope to contribute to a better understanding of the planet on which we live. I look forward with great anticipation the prospect of exploring the ocean’s depths, discovering new things and educating the world about the vast unknown…..

Erin B. Rice

By Luefras Robinson

In a letter to the Suffolk Woman’s Club, Nansemond River High School senior Erin B. Rice successfully made her case to earn a $1,000 scholarship from the organization.

The Woman’s Club presented the award to Rice during a recent luncheon held at Bunny’s restaurant in Suffolk. Rice, who will study marine biology at Old Dominion University in the fall, also expressed that she wants to minimize the financial burden on her family while pursuing higher education.

As she presented the award to Rice, Woman’s Club member Annette Williams noted that it was the honor student’s academic track record, compelling letter and her need that moved the organization to choose her as this year’s scholarship recipient.

&uot;Of 20 applicants, we chose her,&uot; said Williams, who has been involved with the club for more than 50 years.

Rice, the daughter of Michael and Deborah Rice, is graduating with a 4.2 grade point average, number four of a class of 279.

Academic awards include the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Scholar Athlete and Virginian Pilot Scholastic Achiever. For three years, Rice was named to &uot;Who’s Who in American High Schools.&uot; Rice also stayed busy on athletic fields, playing both field hockey and soccer.

While working part-time at Food Lion, Rice also volunteers as a little league coach and is active in numerous academic clubs.

Rice added in her letter of application to the Woman’s Club, &uot;I do not smoke, consume alcoholic beverages or use illegal substances,&uot; which also impressed the members, Williams said.

Rice’s mother and siblings were on hand for the scholarship presentation. David Mitnick, a guidance counselor at Nansemond River, was also present.

After accepting the scholarship, Rice remarked, &uot;I am very flattered. This will greatly help me…I’m really excited. Thanks isn’t enough.&uot;

Mitnick commented that Rice never stepped away from a challenge, and added that the Nansemond River staff enjoyed working with her.

&uot;It was a pleasure working with her,&uot; he said &uot;She continued to challenge herself and excelled.&uot;

He also thanked the Woman’s Club for its ongoing support of youth in Suffolk.

luefras.robinson@suffolknewsherald.com