Red Gold News

To be awarded her merit scholarship, she did no more than complete her college application. 

Samantha Salazar, a senior at Jimmy Carter Early College High School, currently is the recipient of a merit scholarship. The scholarship proves useful as she prepares to embark for further education, but even in her senior year Salazar faces uncertainty. 

“I’m a first-generation student so I do not know anything about college or about scholarships,” Salazar said. “I had to learn by myself.” 

Salazar says that, initially, she did not want to go to college due to its expense. She turned to her friends for advice. 

“They would say that, ‘that’s a great thing, like being awarded a scholarship of up to $12,000 per year,’” Salazar said. “I’m doubting if I’m going or not to college.” 

Of the types of scholarships bestowed on students, the merit scholarship is awarded for a student’s academic achievement or ability. The institution who awarded Salazar her merit scholarship, and the one she applied to, is Asbury University located in Wilmore, Kentucky. 

“I’m trying to decide whether or not go to Kentucky for the scholarship,” Salazar said. 

Salazar is still deciding on her next steps towards higher education. Though she knows what she would like to do. 

“Graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business to open my small business.” Salazar said. 

Although Salazar did not anticipate being a scholarship recipient, her achievement stands as a testament of just how far she has gotten. She truly believes college is worth it for every student. 

“Expect the unexpected, I didn’t expect to go into college or be accepted by some college and even be awarded a scholarship,” Salazar said.