Community scholarship fair opens students’ eyes to possibilities

On Thursday, Feb. 20, a steady stream of BHS students were among approximately 230 local students checking out the Community Scholarship Fair.
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of China Lake and the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce, the three-hour event put students face-to-face with local organizations and scholarship sponsors. Students rotated around the Springhill Suites meeting room, learning about each group’s application process and timelines. Computers were available for anyone who wanted to apply online right at the event.
Participants said the event was eye-opening and made them more optimistic about gaining financial support for college.
“I went to the scholarship fair to find financial aid and network,” said Burroughs senior Farris Javaid. “Everyone was really supportive of my goals.”
Many representatives had their applications on hand, so students could see what was involved in applying. Local service organizations also explained how students could get involved in activities that would make them more competitive during the application process.
“I thought the scholarship fair was an incredible opportunity,” said junior Patrick Boogs. “I was able to make a ton of meaningful connections and get a glimpse into what applying for local scholarships will be like.”
Students said they found the scholarship representatives to be kind and welcoming. One of these representatives was BHS Librarian Ashley Douglas, who was representing the Roadrunner Ridge Community Foundation.
“The scholarship fair offers significant value for students seeking financial support for college,” said Douglas.
Many participating groups voiced a desire to widen the pool of applicants for their scholarships or to get the word out about new scholarships, such as Sierra Sands’ Portrait of a Graduate scholarship
Burroughs English Teachers Susie Burgess and Ernestina Palerm Wilson were on hand to represent the Desert Area Teachers Association scholarships.
Burgess said she was eager to have the opportunity to clarify the requirements for the DATA scholarships, which are open to all Sierra Sands seniors as well as to children of DATA members.
“There’s always some confusion about our scholarships,” said Burgess. “Hopefully, this will help more students see that they could win an award. I am hoping all of our organizations see an increase in applications. That would be a wonderful problem to have.”