Vera Scholars Testimonials
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LUKA IGNAC graduated summa cum laude from DePauw University with a BA in French and Political Science. He was active in many campus clubs and activities and excelled academically as a Vera Scholar at DePauw. He then earned a graduate degree from Georgetown University, where he was an inaugural Donald F. McHenry Global Public Service fellow and Huffington fellow with the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy. He now serves at The Atlantic Council as an Assistant Director for the Transatlantic Security Initiative (TSI) within the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security. In this role, Luka actively engages in shaping discourse on transatlantic security, is a frequent commentator on transatlantic security, and has provided analysis for the CNBC, Euronews, N1, and Voice of America. “"Being a Vera Scholar and coming to DePauw opened a world of possibilities for me in the United States, where I had the privilege to learn from some of the best and kindest teachers who shaped my journey." |
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PIA OCVIRK graduated summa cum laude from DePauw with a major in Computer Science and a minor in Media Studies and was recognized for her academic achievements through both Phi Beta Kappa and the Becker Fellowship. During her time on campus, Pia participated in the highly selective Media Fellows Program and was heavily involved with student media, including D3TV, for which she was thrice awarded the Gertrude and G.D. Crain Award. Pia earned her Master’s Degree in Digital Media from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) in Canada, where interned with globally recognized companies such as The LEGO Group and KPMG. She currently works in data analytics, strategy, and UX design at O’Donnell Moonshine in Berlin, Germany. "The Vera Scholarship provided me with invaluable access to world-class education and early career development opportunities. My time at DePauw allowed me to develop technical skills within my area of study while also connecting with a diverse community of peers and mentors, effectively developing my critical thinking and communication skills. The liberal arts education I received through the Vera Scholarship continues to shape my approach to problem solving and innovation in my career today." |
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“The Vera Scholarship enabled me to immerse myself in academic life and explore my interests without needing to worry or even think about the financial aspects of studying. I've published academic papers, held research assistantships, translated a book, consulted, tutored, edited and thoroughly developed my writing, thinking, and communication skills. Today I navigate the job market and think about my future with great confidence thanks to my time as a Vera Scholar.” |
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“I am honored to have been awarded the Vera Scholarship and the opportunity to pursue my passions and interests at DePauw. Studying and living on such a diverse campus has already provided me with skills, experiences, and connections that I am certain will help me succeed in my career.” |
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“Receiving the prestigious Vera Scholarship provides me with amazing opportunities to pursue my dream of majoring in computer science and math at one of the best liberal arts colleges in the U.S. By eliminating any financial worries, I can embrace all opportunities DePauw offer both academically and out of the classroom. I look forward to using this motivating environment to grow into the best version of myself.” |
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"Rooted in a solid foundation of mathematics and economics, I bring quantitative skills that allow me to analyze complex problems and extract meaningful insights. Whether it's financial modeling, data analysis, or strategic planning, I thrive on the analytical challenge. |
NINA KATARINA STULAR graduated summa cum laude from DePauw as an Honor Scholar with a double major in Philosophy and English Literature. She received numerous awards for outstanding academic achievement, including the prestigious Murad Medal. During her time at DePauw, Nina competed in Ethics Bowl, interned at Prindle Institute for Ethics, and worked as a research assistant on an international project dedicated to mapping Anglo-Saxon scholarly sources. She spent her junior year abroad at Mansfield College, University of Oxford where she rowed for Mansfield's boat club, consulted via Oxford Strategy Group, and worked as a senior editor on an undergraduate humanities journal. She now works in the U.K. at Taylor & Francis, one of the world's largest academic publishing groups, as an Open Research Manager.
NELI PETRIC is a current Vera Scholar from Slovenia pursuing a double major in Economics and Finance at DePauw. In addition to her academic studies, Neli serves as an International Ambassador, Hillman Intern at the Prindle Institute for Ethics, and a member of DePauw Student Government.
ANA LAZOVIC is a current Vera Scholar from Montenegro. She is active both inside and outside the classroom and grateful for the opportunity to continue her growth and study at DePauw. 
DAMIR PUPOVIC graduated magna cum laude from DePauw University with a BA in Mathematics and Economics from DePauw University (Magna Cum Laude). Recently completed an internship in Corporate Development at SMS Group GmbH in Germany. Currently pursuing studies in International Affairs at Penn State.