Newark Student Among 15 Students Nationwide Selected for Spectrum Scholars Program

A Newark college student has been selected as one of just 15 recipients nationwide for the 2026 Spectrum Scholars program, earning a $20,000 scholarship along with mentorship, professional development opportunities, and the chance to intern with Spectrum.

Rebecca Vitorino, a student from Newark studying Management Information Systems at University of North Carolina at Charlotte, was chosen from thousands of applicants across the country.

The scholarship is especially meaningful for Vitorino, who described herself as both a first-generation American and a first-generation college student.

“This scholarship means the world to me,” Vitorino said. “Seeing that I was selected out of thousands of applicants who applied, that someone heard my story and believed in me, means so much to me, and it really makes me believe that I can do this.”

Vitorino shared that her family has faced financial hardships throughout her life, including recent health challenges affecting her mother, who serves as the primary provider for the household. She said the scholarship will help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education and allow her to focus more on exploring career opportunities and spending time with her family.

The Spectrum Scholars program provides recipients with more than financial support. Each scholar receives a $20,000 scholarship spread across their junior and senior years, one-on-one mentorship from a Spectrum employee, networking and professional development experiences, and the opportunity to apply for a paid internship at one of Spectrum’s major office locations.

“What excites me the most about having a Spectrum professional as my mentor is having someone who is many years ahead in their career journey to advise me,” Vitorino said. She added that she hopes the mentorship will help her develop confidence, overcome imposter syndrome, and build resilience as she pursues her career goals.

Looking ahead, Vitorino said she hopes to grow into a leadership role and eventually help young girls and immigrant children achieve their own dreams.

“In five years, I want to be someone who is more confident and helps people who are in a similar position to the one I was in,” she said.

Outside of academics, Vitorino enjoys digital art, reading, writing, and strength training. She has a passion for creativity and hopes to continue developing her artistic skills while pursuing a career in technology and business.

Another New Jersey student recognized as part of the 2026 Spectrum Scholars class was Victoria Okonkwo of Bayonne, who attends Stevens Institute of Technology.

Since launching in 2020, the Spectrum Scholars program has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships to over 100 students with financial need, helping them gain access to education, mentorship, and career-building opportunities.