Fox Chapel Area senior Melina Bradley earns full-ride Stamps Scholarship to University of Pittsburgh

Hard work has paid off in a major way for Fox Chapel Area High School senior Melina Bradley.

The 18-year-old Fox Chapel resident earned a Stamps Scholarship worth more than $160,000 through the University of Pittsburgh.

The full-ride award covers four years of tuition, mandatory fees, room and board, and also includes access to a discretionary fund that can help pay for study abroad.

“The (news) was delivered to my door when I was at home doing virtual school with my triplet siblings,” Bradley said. “We all were so excited that my sister started jumping up and down screaming.”

Bradley is among only five incoming first-year Pitt students to earn the Stamps Scholarship.

“The whole experience is incredibly exciting and I feel extremely grateful,” the former track and soccer player said.

The Stamps Scholarship includes an allowance for books and supplies, transportation expenses and personal costs.

An application process demands that students show a history of leadership, outstanding academics, service and perseverance.

Bradley’s high school resume’ doesn’t disappoint.

At Fox Chapel Area, she is the president of the student government, vice president of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and a co-founder and co-chair of the student diversity council.

She is also a member of the National Honor Society, community outreach and Best Buddies, a group that matches disabled students with peers for activities, sports and friendships.

Lead principal Mike Hower said Bradley is set apart by her leadership skills.

“Melina is an amazing student who is very driven and possesses an excellent work ethic,” he said. “She leads by example and she finds joy in helping others succeed.”

Bradley plans to study human resources management during her time at Pitt’s Oakland campus and is eager for the national networking opportunities her scholarship will provide.

“I am looking forward to being a part of an organization with so many like-minded students who are passionate about leadership, service and shaping the future of this country,” she said.

Bradley credited a strong foundation from Fox Chapel Area, saying she appreciates the club sponsors, teachers, faculty and coaches who made her feel empowered and capable.

“They were always supportive of new ideas and welcomed change,” the teen said. “Participating in all of these different organizations and having leadership positions where I was allowed to try new things and broaden my horizons allowed me to learn about my capabilities and grow as a leader.”

Bradley said interacting with diverse people who have different perspectives and backgrounds has helped her understand how to better engage with people in a way that benefits all.

“Getting involved in so many activities has allowed me to find what I’m passionate about,” she said. “My greatest passion is helping people and I have found many of my strengths in my business courses in high school.”

Calling the scholarship a long shot, Bradley credited her mom for encouraging her to apply.

“I never expected to receive such an honor but I am passionate about leadership activities and the scholarship seemed to align really well with that,” she said. “My mom believed the whole time that the scholarship was well within reach for me.”