Class of 2013
William C. and Frederick W. Whitridge Jefferson Scholar
Houston, Texas
“I chose to come to U.Va. as a Jefferson Scholar for two reasons: increased opportunity and room to be challenged. At selection weekend the Foundation made very clear the opportunities I would have as a Jefferson Scholar—a trip abroad, an Institute for Leadership and Citizenship and financial liberty to name just a few. Furthermore, I knew that attending the University of Virginia as a Jefferson Scholar would challenge me in many ways to stand out as a leader and to be a force for effective change.
“Attending the University of Virginia as a Jefferson Scholar has challenged me far more than I ever expected. The experience has been wonderful thus far and I would not trade it. The Jefferson Scholars community is a diverse group of individuals and has been a springboard for my own personal growth and inspiration.”
As a second year Shelby is still exploring her academic opportunities before choosing a major. Outside of the classroom, Shelby dedicates her time to Students for Students International, a student-run non-profit funding scholarships in Africa. She is also an Honor educator, and Abundant Life tutor and a contributing writer for the Hoos Stories blog
