SOUTH COUNTY — Two South County high school graduates were awarded scholarships from the California Association of Winegrape Growers Foundation. Sandy Garcia of King City High School received $8,000 and Julianna Lorente of Soledad High School was awarded $2,000.
The scholarships are awarded annually to students whose parent or legal guardian is employed by a California winegrape grower.
“We are honored to provide scholarships to these incredibly deserving and talented students, many of whom have overcome challenges in their lives,” said J.R. Shannon, chairman of the foundation’s board of directors. “We commend them for how much they have accomplished academically and with extracurricular activities, community service and work. Our vineyard employees are valued members of our winegrape growing family, and we are pleased that we can help their children achieve their dreams of a college education.”
Each year the CAWG Foundation board selects at least seven recipients from high schools throughout the state. Scholarship selection is based on scholastic ability, financial need, community involvement, leadership and a 500-word essay. The program was created in 1998, and since then, has awarded $403,000 in scholarships. Funds are raised through donations from members of the California Association of Winegrape Growers and the California wine community.
As part of the scholarship application, students are required to submit a 500-word essay about their lives, achievements and goals. Below are excerpts from their essays.
Garcia, who graduated last weekend, has balanced a demanding load of school, extracurricular activities, work and community service. She is the Valedictorian and a valuable member and leader in clubs and four sports teams. She has donated more than 100 hours to her community, including as a girls’ soccer team coach, and is the first in her family to attend a four-year university.
Garcia would like to become a doctor, dentist or health professional that will allow her to share her knowledge of nutrition and health.
“Receiving this scholarship would place me one step closer to achieving my dream and helping my community,” she said.
Lorente is a diligent student with ambitious goals who values the opportunity of pursuing a higher education. She feels that her consistent dedication to her studies, extracurricular activities and community service has greatly increased her chances of future prosperity. She credits FFA for helping her improve her communication and leadership skills.
Lorente plans to attend Hartnell College, then transfer to Cabrillo College for its dental hygiene program.
“Receiving such a generous scholarship would mean the world to me as it would lighten my financial burden and therefore ensure my success in … obtaining my degree,” she said.
