I Speak Change. Youth Speak Education.

During my senior year of high school I would ask myself every day  “how in the world am I going to pay for college?” As a former foster child, first generation college student, and having no means to finance my education, I was never deterred from seeking a college degree. Rather, these obstacles pushed me to work even harder. I did not want my fate to be the same as some individuals around me, which resulted in me devoting time every day to applying for scholarships.

The Armstrong Family Foundation Scholarship was the first scholarship that I was awarded. Many scholarships commonly provide the funds to attend college, but the Armstrong Family Foundation Scholarship provides so much more- a family. Each month we participate in a scholarship event. Some of the past events include seeing a Broadway play at Gammage Theater, learning proper dining etiquette, attending professional development opportunities, and taking part in community service. My personal favorite is when all of the scholars go to Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico. During the weekend trip, the scholars assist in building homes for local families and distribute about 1,000 food boxes.

In addition to the cultural experiences, networking opportunities and all of the free food, there is a scholarship coordinator that will be there for you every step of the way during your collegiate experience. Without the funds provided to me by the generous Armstrong Family Foundation Scholarship, I would have not been able to be as involved in the extracurricular activities on and off campus.

A person is not responsible for the circumstances that they are born into, but they are responsible for what they do despite their upbringing.” —Frank Smith

Interested in applying for the Armstrong Scholarship? Click here!