Three Worcester Prep graduates attend same medical school

Earning a college degree is the first goal for families after graduation from Worcester Preparatory School in Berlin, Md. But Matteo Petrera, Erin Royal and Michelle Stickler, three students from the Class of 2012, wanted more. Following graduation from their respective colleges, they headed to the same medical school, the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. The students were reunited on stage July 25 at their white coat ceremony, when incoming medical students were presented white coats and nametags, symbolizing the class of 2020's induction into the medical profession.

This determined trio graduated from a Worcester Prep class of 57 students in 2012. The fact they are together four years later at the same medical school does not come as a surprise considering some of their high school accomplishments including Cum Laude Society, AP Scholars, National Honor Society, Spanish and French National Honor Societies, sports accolades and leadership roles.

All three attended colleges in different states and graduated in four years. Matteo Petrera of Salisbury, Md., earned a bachelor of science in biology degree from Villanova University. Erin Royal of Rehoboth Beach earned an exercise science and kinesiology bachelor of science and a bachelor of arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Delaware. Rehoboth Beach native Michelle Stickler earned a science and business bachelor of science degree from the University of Notre Dame.

Founded in 1970, Worcester Preparatory School is an independent preschool through 12th grade school in Berlin, Md. Approximately 550 students attend from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. For more information, go to www.worcesterprep.org or call 410-641-3575.