WATCH: Westmoreland County high school student surprised with full-tuition college scholarship
Cydney Wierzbowski was one of five winners in the Thiel College competition
Cydney Wierzbowski was one of five winners in the Thiel College competition
Cydney Wierzbowski was one of five winners in the Thiel College competition
Cydney Wierzbowski had no idea why she was called out of math class by her principal on Tuesday. She was led to the library, where family and other teachers were waiting to surprise her with a check worth nearly $140,000.
"This is awesome. This is an amazing opportunity," she said with a smile.
The Derry Area High School student was one of five awarded a full tuition scholarship by Thiel College. Around 130 students entered the competition. All of those who competed were awarded $1,000 renewable scholarships.
Wierzbowski has been the drum majorette for the high school's band, led the student council and competed on the track and field team.
"I am so proud of her," said Carrie Namisnak, Cydney's mom. "She's worked so hard. She's involved in so many things, and she tries her best at everything she does."
Wierzbowski said she is still deciding on a major but looks forward to the journey ahead.
"Just meeting new people in a whole different environment and kind of moving into adult life," she said. "It's crazy to think about that this is happening right now."