PALAS TOP PERFORMERS in 2015-2016 (1 of 5) : Keli-Jo Hewett-Dalling PALAS Gold Star Applicant with 20 CXC/CAPE ALL DISTINCTIONS (1's).... 3.92/4.00 GPA in Economics at UWI.

3.92/4.00 GPA in Economics at UWI.

PALAS Student News- Published 8/3/15 SHORT EXCERPT FROM KELI-JO's ESSAY:

I have journeyed a bumpy road to get to where I am today, but in the midst of these hardships I 
continue to work hard and help others along the way. I believe that I should receive a PALAS 
scholarship based on my financial need; my academic achievements and my expressed willingness 
to better my situation and that of others. There are many financial challenges to be had growing up
 in an impoverished home. When I was six years old my family became virtually homeless which
 led to us having to stay at a neighbour’s home; three persons, one room. Coupled with our housing 
struggles was my mother’s illness which absorbed most of our funds and subsequently, she lost her job. 

From then on lacking formal education, my mother would do 
a myriad of odd jobs, which offered, at most, minimum wage. 
Being the last child, I committed myself to ending the chronic
 cycle of poverty in my family. Higher education is the means 
of doing this. Receiving a PALAS scholarship would help to 
reduce the financial costs of attending University.........

Financial difficulties are present but I use this as a motivation to strive for excellence. 
These challenges are also why I will become a great Economist so that I can aid in 
making "Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business”.