Scholarship Helps Tampa Native, Cancer Survivor Earn A Degree

TAMPA, FL -- A Tampa native is using her experience beating childhood cancer to see life in a new light and drive her pursuit for a college degree.

Jessica Zelitt was been recently honored as a recipient of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s scholarship program for childhood cancer survivors and their siblings, putting $5,000 toward continuing her education. The scholarship reflects the Foundation’s dedication to supporting children and their families who have been affected by childhood cancer.

Jessica is currently a student at the University of South Florida, where she studies public health and political science with plans to secure a master’s in public health and a law degree after graduation.

Looking back on her battle with cancer, Jessica says her experience taught her to carry the confidence that she can accomplish everything she aspires to do. Nine years after ending treatment, Jessica is thriving and has achieved so much already, including (but certainly not limited to) maintaining her 4.0 undergraduate GPA and serving as a leader to several campus organizations at USF. Once she graduates, Jessica hopes to eventually contribute to the overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system by increasing access to care and lifesaving treatments.

“A childhood cancer diagnosis is one of the most unsettling circumstances that families can encounter, and treatment can require tremendous sacrifice, both emotionally and financially," said Eric Christophersen, president of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “All children deserve the opportunity to pursue their college dreams and live life to the fullest.”

Northwestern Mutual launched its Childhood Cancer Program in 2012 to find better cures and treatments, as well as to provide family and patient support. Many childhood cancer survivors and their families struggle financially because of costly treatment, so the scholarships are intended to help alleviate some of these burdens.

Granted through the Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s Childhood Cancer Program, the scholarships are administered through Scholarship America. Each recipient receives an initial $5,000 to offset their tuition costs, and the scholarship can be renewed for a second year for a total of $10,000. The 35 students selected in 2018 demonstrated strong academic performance, financial need and leadership. Since the scholarship program launched in 2017, Northwestern Mutual has provided more than $175,000. Survivors and siblings affected by childhood cancer can apply for 2019 scholarships by January 30, 2019.

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