Young men and women who choose to attend college often find they are living on their own for the very first time. They quickly realize that they must balance the demands of their academic pursuits with this newfound freedom. For some, that can be a challenge.

For Azeh Atout, the choice was simple. The 20-year-old La Roche College junior from Amman, Jordan, made a con-scious decision to give back to the local community, even though she is not an American citizen. Last year, Atout became a member of the Peebles District Volunteer Fire Company in McCandless, PA.

"I do believe that wherever you go, it's people - not Americans, Jordanians, or Palestinians - but people that you need to help," said Atout, who attends La Roche through the Pacem In Terris program.

In January, the fire company awarded Atout for her service by naming her Firefighter of the Year. She is the first woman to receive the award in the history of the company and was chosen over 38 of her colleagues.

"We are delighted that Azeh was recognized for her efforts," said Monsignor William Kerr, La Roche College president. "Azeh's willingness to offer her time and talents to the surrounding neighborhoods speaks directly to the quality of her character, especially at such a young age."

Atout earned the award with sweat and determination. She went through months of rigorous training in gear that adds more than 50 pounds to one's body weight. She is an active member of the department and regularly responds to fire calls. Atout feels as if she is also a member of another family beyond her own now - her fire company.

"I never wanted to be like everybody else. I never wanted to just go to college, go to classes, have a part-time job and that's it," said Atout. "I wanted something more than that, and I think I have it now."