I strongly support Nicole Cashin’s application for the Harland Scholarship Program; I do so enthusiastically because I had the privilege of watching this young lady mature socially, emotionally and intellectually over the four years I have known her. So often, letters of recommendation suffer from exaggeration and abuse of the superlative; however, let me assure you that Nicole Cashin is no ordinary applicant and deserves very serious consideration.

Nicole first came under my tutelage her Freshman year as a first year Latin student, whereupon she immediately established herself as one of the preeminent members of a particularly strong class. From 1997 until 2000, Nicole preceded from Latin I to Honors II and then Vergil; presently, she is in her fourth year of Latin reading Ovid and Cicero. At every level Nicole has demonstrated excellence and that singular characteristic that drives her: commitment.

At a time when too many young people seem to be disaffected and disconnected, Nicole is very eagerly engaged in whatever she does. She is an indefatigable worker who has a remarkably defined sense of responsibility. Over the years, Nicole has not only performed admirably in Latin class, but she has also energetically supported our Junior Classical League — when Nicole joins a club, it is not to pad her resume. Further, Nicole has participated successfully in the prestigious National Latin Exam where at Levels I, II, and Advanced Poetry she has distinguished herself by earning Maxima cum Laude and Summa cum Laude (Gold Medal) recognition.

A cursory reading of Nicole’s school history suggests excellence in a variety of areas ranging from science and math to Latin and the arts; quite frankly, there seems to be little that is beyond her intellectual reach. However, she has balanced that academic acheivement with a healthy participiation in athletics, community services and her Catholic youth organization activities. And, she does everything with a joy and peace that suggest an emotional and spirtual strength so noticeably absent today.

Nicole is intellectually strong, emotionally sound and morally upright; she will bring honor to your company and your association with her will be mutually advantageous. That is why you should accept Nicole Cashin among the scholarship recipients at Harland.

Respectfully submitted,

R.P. Guarnella, Jr.