MELBOURNE | Sophia M. is a regular anchor on Melbourne Central Catholic’s Morning Buzz. She loves the job that helped her discover a love of broadcasting.

This summer, she was selected to attend the University of Florida’s Summer Media Institute, a six-day workshop that immerses high school students in journalism and communications. Sophia is an incoming senior and hopes to attend UF’s College of Journalism and Communication in the fall of 2026. She made connections with professors and future mentors and hopes to integrate her faith in her work.

“Going to MCC has helped me practice my faith along with my education. Bringing the integrity and morality that I’ve learned at MCC into the broadcasting world is important to me because I feel it’s something lacking in the newscasting world,” she said.

Fellow student and incoming junior, Gabriel C. was selected to attend Stanford University’s prestigious Envision by WorldStrides Intensive Law and Trial program this summer. Held at Stanford Law School, Gabriel participated in a comprehensive introduction to legal principles and trial procedures.

Along with 300 high-achieving students from across the country and around the world, he worked on case studies and mock trials, tackling roles as both prosecutor and defense attorney. These mock trials were held in the iconic San Francisco Supreme Court building, offering students a hands-on learning opportunity.

In addition to academic enrichment, Gabriel engaged in valuable networking opportunities and built lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds, all while experiencing the dynamic and inspiring atmosphere of the Stanford campus.

Staff report, July 31, 2025