Julia Robertson

Scholarship recipient Julia Robertson (left) is all smiles with friend Chelsea Henderson.

"Going to college was foreign territory for my family, and I knew I would need aid to go to school," said Julia Robertson, a 2006 Octorara High School graduate, class valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society.

So, when the guidance counselor at Octorara gave her friend an application the first year the program was in existence, Robertson quickly went and picked one up too. "I wanted to expand my horizons in college," she said. "The Lenfest Scholarship was the answer to my prayers."

Robertson fell in love with the University of Virginia the first time she set foot on campus. During the application process, she relied on resources available through the program. "Roger Lehecka advocated on my behalf and helped me with my essays," Robertson said. "Without his input, advice and counsel, my application would not have been as strong."

At UVA, Robertson is studying Religion and Psychology, and she was recently accepted into the freshman section of the Phi Eta Sigma honor society. Although she planned to be an English major, Robertson soon found herself drawn to working with young people and fostering spirituality in others. "I participate in a Christian Fellowship group and lead a Bible study for students; through both of these activities, I discovered a type of spiritual leadership that I want to continue in the future."

After graduation in 2010, Robertson plans to enter a religious counseling field or ministry. In the meantime, she continues to dedicate herself to others. Last year, Robertson supported international students on campus who speak English as a second language. Currently, she continues her group leadership and ministry with local children. She also mentors autistic children while on break from school. "I used to be involved in a lot of diverse activities, but now I am focusing more on what I truly enjoy and putting my whole heart into it."

Robertson credits the Lenfest Foundation for helping her achieve her goals. "Mr. Lenfest, Grahame Richards and all the people who work at the organization truly have a desire to help students," she added. "They do it well and I am grateful for all they have done."

Robertson offers three-pronged advice to high school students

  • Try...even if you don't think you will get the scholarship
  • Don't fear failure; if I let fear stand in the way, I wouldn't be here today
  • Ask for help during the college application process, especially with essays