McPHERSON – Micaila Curtis never imagined as a freshman starting at McPherson College that she would graduate in three years and be applying for medical school. But with good grades, hard work and scholarships, that’s exactly what she will do. And, she will be graduating debt free.

Curtis, a third year senior from Great Bend, majoring in biology, recently received the 2018 Maud Wyatt Memorial Scholarship granted by the Kansas Independent College Foundation. The scholarship has been awarded since 1995 and restructured this year to recognize a student from each of the 19 Kansas Independent College Association institutions.

“McPherson College is the right fit for me,” she said. “It’s small enough yet big enough; close to home, but not too close; and it gave me the best scholarships and the opportunities I need to get into graduate school.”

As a recipient of the KICF scholarships, Curtis met the requirements as a full-time, degree seeking student on the cusp of graduation, and demonstrated excellence in academics, character, and leadership. Recipients also must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or above while being active on their campus.

That is not a problem for Curtis. While maintaining a GPA well above the requirement, she also participates in the McPherson College Choir, is a member of the theatre honor society and the Pre-Health Professionals club, she helps with new student orientation and student panels, and volunteers at the McPherson hospital. She also works on campus in the Admissions Office, and as a certified nursing assistant at the local urgent care center.

“I was nominated for the scholarship by my co-workers in the Admissions Office,” Curtis said. “It really made my year that they would nominate me. It’s fun keeping busy with my activities and work. It has helped me find a group of people who are always there to support me.”

By combining her scholarships and wages from employment, Curtis anticipates graduating this spring without any student debt.