GRSP

About

We had 2 GRSP students this past year (inclusive of one Direct Select).  Valentina Constanza Flores Quintanilla from Chile was hosted by Rotarians John and Copper Comita.  She attended Valdosta State University.  Scott and Peggy Rich hosted Allen Hollander from the Curacao while he attended Thomas University.  The Rotary Club of Thomasville has also given $25,577 to GRSP this year, $211.38 per capita giving.

Overview from the Comita Family / GRSP Host family of the Year:

John, Copper, and their daughter, Reynolds, have relished the opportunity to connect with Valentina, GRSP student from Chile and someone very close to their daughter’s age. Valentina has been open and honest about her home country and her visit. In their words, "It’s been a heartwarming experience getting to know her. Our approach has been autonomous in understanding her college experience.  Being able to guide and support her rather than making decisions for her, given she is of college age, has been very positive. The joy lies in learning about another country; she's here to enhance her English, not necessarily to take specific classes. This is her English-learning year, and her goal is to master the language for potential admission to Oxford or Harvard for graduate school. We truly hope she secures that scholarship – she has excelled academically, displayed kindness, generosity, honesty, and warmly invited us to visit her family in her country. Despite initial uncertainty, taking on this project has proven 100% rewarding. Embarking on this project required John and me to proactively manage our family dynamics, demonstrating both understanding and inclusivity towards Valentina. I extend the same care to her as I do to our own daughter, and I recommend this approach to all host families considering hosting a GRSP student.”