headshot of Dominic Ferraro

Hometown: I currently reside in Brook Park, a suburb about ten minutes from downtown Cleveland. Although Mansfield is smaller, I have grown fond of the close-knit community here on campus.

Major and Career Path: I am working toward my Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on drawing and painting. My passion for art drives me to explore various career paths. One of my aspirations is to become a professor, sharing my knowledge and love for art with future generations. Alternatively, I am also intrigued by the idea of joining a production team that organizes and curates exhibitions. Both paths excite me as they offer unique opportunities to contribute to the art world and engage with creative communities.

How Scholarships Affect Me: Scholarships have been a tremendous help in my academic journey. They alleviate the financial burden of paying for classes, allowing me to concentrate on my studies and artistic practice without constant worry. This financial support enables me to dedicate my time and energy to the most important tasks: growth and learning. The relief from financial stress has been invaluable, giving me the freedom to fully immerse myself in my education and creative pursuits.

Scholarship Support to Me: Having scholarship support is a huge blessing, and I am profoundly grateful for it. I do not take this support for granted in the slightest. It empowers me to work and study harder, knowing that I have the financial freedom to do so. Scholarships provide me with the stability needed to focus on my academic and artistic goals, fostering an environment where I can thrive.

How Scholarships Have Helped Me:

  • Access to Education: Scholarships have been instrumental in my ability to attend college and further my education. Without financial aid, pursuing higher education might not have been a viable option for me. This support has opened doors that would have otherwise remained closed.
  • Broadening Interests: Being on scholarship has allowed me to explore a wider range of interests and take risks within both my artistic practice and student career. It has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, experiment with new techniques, and engage in diverse projects. This freedom to explore and take risks has been crucial for my personal and professional growth.

“These scholarships have pushed me to do much more than I thought I would be able to achieve. They have also led me to a path of academic and career success because of all the great people I have met along the way.”

Samuel Ratvasky ‘25 David M. Scott Recipient