West Orange Teen Earns Full Ride To Vanderbilt University

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A senior at West Orange High School is among a select group of students who earned a full scholarship to some of the nation’s top colleges as part of the 2022 QuestBridge National College Match.

John Osajie earned a full ride to Vanderbilt University, including all fees, tuition, room, board, and books. He got a big boost from WOHS guidance counselor Margaret Fahey along the way, the West Orange Public School District reported.

Questbridge, a national nonprofit based in California, teamed up with 48 college partners, who will be providing the full scholarships to the winning students.

According to the nonprofit:

“These outstanding high school seniors have an average unweighted GPA of 3.94, and 94% are in the top 10% of their graduating class. Around 94% come from a household with an annual income under $65,000, and 88% qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. The majority of this year’s Match Scholarship Recipients — 80% — are among the first generation in their families to attend a four-year college in the United States.”

This year, QuestBridge’s college partners matched with 1,755 finalists, who were recognized as match scholarship recipients. This is the highest number to date, the organization said.

“This record-breaking result further motivates us to help outstanding students obtain the top education that they deserve,” said Ana Rowena Mallari, co-founder and CEO of QuestBridge.

“These bright and motivated students have a determination to succeed that will help them thrive well beyond their college years, and we’re excited to see where their dreams take them next,” Mallari said.

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