January $2,000 “No Essay” Scholarship Winner: Sara Zavorka
Age: 20
School: Stephen F. Austin State University
Current Year: Sophomore
Graduation: 2014
Studying: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education
How and Why did you choose the college you are attending?
Honestly, I was running out of time to search for colleges, so I hauled out my box overflowing with college brochures, and began desperately attacking the pile, hoping to find some place that would catch my eye. My dad picked up one for SFASU and started researching it, and immediately I fell in love with the look (pine trees as far as the eye can see.) I applied, visited and it was purely breath-taking. By the time I was finally getting accepted to my other choice colleges, SFASU
was already mailing me scholarships. Though last minute and randomly rushed, it was a sign that this was the place for me.
Does the experience remain true to what you expected?
It is still a breath-taking campus. I have always loved the pine trees and crisp look of nature. This campus reminds me of that of University of Wyoming, which was another option of mine, only without the cold temperatures, so I love it. The experience overall is so much more remarkable than I ever could have dreamed. The marching band is still a terrific part of my life here, and has led me to many other opportunities. Also, ultimately, my major was one that was offered here, so yes, everything is turning out just as it should be. The more I learn about SFASU versus other neighboring colleges, the more happy I am to call this my home. Axe ‘Em Jacks!
What advice would you recommend to college-bound students?
Don’t worry! I was clueless upon high school graduation about what I wanted to do, and even all throughout my freshman year. I just had to keep reminding myself that my life is in God’s hands. Also, I lived by my favorite quote, by writer Douglas Noel Adams, “I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.”
What is something we’d be surprised to know about you?
Upon driving to SFASU for the first time, I was debating with myself if I wanted to even consider joining a sorority. I talked myself out of it. However, being in the marching band, I was introduced to Kappa Kappa Psi, co-ed National Honorary Band Service Fraternity, and ended up rushing and crossing that organization. I never thought, until attending college, that I would ever join a fraternity or be called a Brother- and it has been one of the best decisions of my life. AEA!!!
January $1,000 College Survey Scholarship Winner: Alex G.
Age: 18
School: University of San Diego
Current Year: Freshman
Graduation: 2015
How and Why did you choose the college you are attending? I chose USD because I heard of it through the grape vine while visiting southern California on a college visit trip. I came back to visit USD a year later and fell in love with the small class sizes, sense of community, and flawless location.
Does the experience remain true to what you expected? Yes, everything I thought USD would be has remained true. Sure parties aren’t always bumping, but your teachers care about you, know your name, and are always willing to help. Plus 80 degrees in February isn’t bad.
What do you like most about college? Least? I like the freedom and all the free time. You are able to recreate yourself by doing what you love, whether it be on campus or off. The thing I like the least would have to be the insane amount of work that seems to pile up overnight.
What advice would you recommend to college-bound students? Enjoy your home life while you can but get excited to experience a whole new way of living. You will always have your friends from home but living far from one another does put strain on relationships.
What is something we’d be surprised to know about you? I am an all-star cheerleader for California All Stars, which is a nationally and world recognized program.
