Besides being the leading heavy metal band in the country for nearly 25 years, Metallica is also committed to opening doors for those who need a hand in achieving their life goals through higher ed. The Metallica Scholars Initiative offers scholarships that empower individuals to earn entry-level certificates, thereby opening doors to in-demand job opportunities.
Through their 'All Within My Hands Foundation,' Metallica offers life-changing scholarships for NOVA students, enabling them to gain essential skills for today's workforce. Too often, financial barriers prevent individuals from moving ahead in college, but the generous support of the Metallica Foundation is working to remove this barrier.
Former Metallica Scholar Matthew Marquez continues to be grateful for the support that Metallica has given him. He’s now working as an RMA (Registered Medication Aide) at an assisted living facility in McLean. “I find fulfillment in helping older adults,” he said.
Matthew strongly believes in this scholarship program and hopes the band will continue to help others unlock new opportunities in their lives.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background:
I’m from the Philippines. About two years ago, Amazon offered my wife a promotion, but the job was in Northern Virginia. So, my wife, our three kids (two sons and a daughter) and I moved to the U.S.
For me, moving to a new country meant starting over in my career. Despite having a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from the Philippines, I faced a career challenge because I couldn’t work as a nutritionist in the U.S. due to different licensing requirements. But I was determined to continue working in health sciences because I’ve always been dedicated to helping others.
How did you become a Metallica Scholar?
Sometimes, life has a way of changing your path. When I first came to the U.S., I tried to get a job at a nursing home but was unsuccessful. That experience made me realize I needed to further my education and obtain specialized certifications, such as becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA).
That’s why I came to NOVA to pursue the CNA program and that’s where I learned about the ‘All Within My Hands Foundation’ (Metallica) grant. The funny thing is that I was already a big Metallica fan, and now I’m an even bigger fan!
I feel blessed to have had the chance to study at the best school (NOVA) and receive these grants: in late 2022 for the CNA program and early 2023 for the Medication Technician program. The grants covered my tuition and other school expenses.
But beyond that, Metallica has opened doors of opportunity for me and my family. Now, I have a career in the medical field and am working toward an advanced degree in the same field, with the chance to pursue the American dream!
It's fascinating and unique that a heavy metal band like Metallica is involved in offering help like this.
What did you study at NOVA?
I earned certifications as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Registered Medication Aide (RMA) at NOVA. This is an excellent strategy for advancing my career and becoming a registered nurse. I really enjoyed clinicals and working with patients. It is so rewarding to help people.
But my journey was not easy. I was taken aback by the language barrier in my courses. Thankfully, part of the NOVA program funded by the Metallica grant is assistance with English as a Second Language, or ESL, courses.
Continuing this scholarship is crucial because it provides ongoing support and opportunities for individuals like me to achieve an education, career advancement and the realization of personal and professional goals. Moreover, continuing this program contributes to personal growth and fulfilling dreams for many individuals and their families.
What’s next for you?
My goal is to return to school and pursue studies to become an LPN/LVN. While I understand it will take time, the initial support from Metallica motivates me to strive toward my future aspirations. I plan to pay it forward by helping others as I pursue my dreams.
What do you want to say to Metallica?
I am so grateful that this scholarship program is helping students in the healthcare field, especially those like me who are still learning English. I really want to thank the Band for being really generous in giving other people a chance to improve their lives!