# Grove Farm Scholar

## Athena Abadilla

2016 Grove Farm Scholar

**Athena Abadilla**  
**Barnard College of Columbia University** _Education / American Studies_

### What motto best describes your outlook on life?

Not a motto, and not really answering the question too well, but _How Far I’ll Go_ from Disney’s Moana perfectly captures where I’m at in life right now, haha.

### What has being awarded the Grove Farm Scholarship meant to you?

Being chosen as a Grove Farm scholar showed me how much the leaders in my community trust in my plans and are there to support my endeavors. It’s been such a big help and encouragement (and definitely lessened my financial burden) as I am so far away from home trying to defend & well-represent my island here in New York City and intending to furthermore serve my home in the future. I’m so grateful.

### What have you learned about yourself while you’ve been away?

That I still have a lot left to figure out.

### What drives you?

I’m driven by the idea that God has created this life specifically for me and given me certain simple privileges (and also certain obstacles) so that I can use all that I have / all that I am to intentionally love and serve others.

### What gives you hope for the future?

Seeing the progress made thus far.