Marco Estrada is a dedicated student leader whose work on campus reflects a deep
commitment to service, community care, and academic excellence. During the last academic
year, he continued to strengthen his involvement at Ithaca College through a combination of
residence life work, campus employment, and community engagement. In Fall 2025, Marco
began his first semester as a Resident Assistant for 29 upper-year students in Terrace 2, where
he supports residents through programming, peer guidance, and the creation of an inclusive
and respectful living environment. His RA role builds his passion for helping others thrive and
foster strong, connected communities.
During the summer, Marco worked at Burlington, gaining customer-service experience that
translated seamlessly into his on-campus position at Ithaca Bakery, where he currently works as
a barista and food-prep assistant. This role has strengthened his ability to work collaboratively,
manage fast-paced environments, and engage with the campus community in meaningful
everyday interactions.
For his community service this year, Marco will be volunteering with Prunty’s Pantry, Ithaca
College’s food pantry. His work will include assisting shoppers, maintaining pantry operations,
and supporting food-access initiatives that directly benefit students facing food insecurity.
Marco was recently inducted into the Oracle Honor Society, which recognizes students in the
top 10% of their academic school after two semesters. This distinction reflects his dedication to
scholarship, character, leadership, service, and loyalty—values that continue to shape his
academic and personal commitments on campus.
To me, being an MLK Scholar means honoring my responsibility to uplift others with
intention, humility, and action. It reminds me that my work—whether in service,
leadership, or daily interactions—carries the power to create community, inspire change,
and reflect the values that brought me to this program in the first place.
Marco Estrada
Writing | Staten Island, NY
