Statesman Scholar Miodrag Dronjak

I am a second-year international student from Kladovo, Serbia, arriving in the United States six years ago to pursue my academic and basketball dreams. I am both an honor student with a 4.0 GPA and a member of the Statesmen basketball team.

I started playing basketball at a young age in Serbia, then earned a spot on both the junior and senior clubs teams in the capital city of Belgrade. The Serbian educational system didn’t allow me to attend school and play basketball at the same time, so I was motivated to seek opportunities in the United States.

A friend living in the U.S. helped me obtain a scholarship at the Friends School in Virginia Beach. I chose Richard Bland College to earn a great education, play basketball, and transfer to one of the many outstanding transfer partners, specifically William & Mary. Unfortunately, I ruptured my Achilles tendon during the first scrimmage game last year. I had to sit out the entire season which was difficult, but it allowed me the time to concentrate on academics as I went through difficult rehabilitation.

My family has been supportive, and we have an interesting history. My great Grandpa was a commandant of a battalion in World War II, and other relatives have been involved in the military. When Yugoslavia fell due to the ongoing war between Serbia and Croatia, my parents were forced to leave their homes and escape. They left everything behind and started a whole new life. I’ve done the same thing.

RBC has a small community. I have been exposed to everything college life has to offer. Professors know my name and my goals. Being a Statesman Scholar has meant a lot to me. I have enjoyed being surrounded by successful people who have brought different perspectives to my college experience.