Although Joynelis Caminero Santiago liked the thought of attending Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, she didn’t believe it was realistic for her. She learned about The Woods through researching music therapy programs since Puerto Rico, her home, didn’t have much to offer.
For financial reasons, Santiago decided Illinois State University was her best option, and went on to put down her deposit. After four days of trying to submit her deposit to no avail, she was contacted by Sharon Boyle, MM, MT-BC saying she had some news.
“When we met, she told me I got the full-tuition scholarship I didn’t know I applied to,” Santiago said. When applying to schools, she also applied for any scholarship she was eligible for. What she didn’t realize was that the Musician of Promise scholarship covered her schooling in full. “Everything that has led me to Indiana, I know it has been God.”
The student chosen as Musician of Promise must display strong academics and have excellent musical potential, said Boyle, department chair for Music and Theatre.
“The music faculty are very excited to give her this opportunity and we know she will grow and develop so much throughout her time here,” Boyle said. Voice is Santiago’s choice of instrument.
Coming to The Woods has been a “rollercoaster of emotions” for Santiago. Her family is home in Puerto Rico, and she is here adjusting to not only college life, but college life in an entirely new place. But she believes she’s in the right place to start this new journey.
“The College really cares about the students — for them to succeed. You don’t see that in Puerto Rico,” Santiago explains. “Here it is completely different. I felt very welcome, and that people actually want me here. I really love it.”
Going forward, Santiago is still figuring out her plans, but she would like to spread her passion for music therapy in Puerto Rico. Whatever that path might be, she knows she has guidance to help her.
“This scholarship showed me God has so many other plans for me that I didn’t even know I could have. I know He has a purpose for me — apparently not in Puerto Rico,” Santiago joked. “It’s an opportunity that makes me so happy and humble. I know it was God.”
Boyle is pleased to have someone from so far away join the program. She says the program is well-established and reputable not only in the states but all over the world.
“I am glad that Joy learned about our program in Puerto Rico and hope we will continue to draw students from other states and territories in the future,” Boyle said.