David was delighted when he got the news — being named one of the twelve Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF) Scholars for this academic school year.
“I was very honored to be chosen,” says the graduate of John Marshall Fundamental High School.
The director at the Partnership for Success! program — which David had been participating in since fourth grade — thought enough of the young man’s talent, ability and determination to nominate David for the program.
As the first generation in his family to attend college, David is excited to start his studies at Pasadena City College this fall with the ultimate goal of becoming a nurse. “My mom was a nurse back in Mexico before she moved here,” he explains. “She would tell me stories about helping people and it sounded like a wonderful career.” Additionally, David’s older cousin is a nurse at City of Hope and inspired him to choose nursing.
Being a PCF Scholar means many things to David — he’ll get book store vouchers to help with expenses, but more importantly will be the assistance he’ll receive as he transitions from high school to college. He points to a tutoring program that can help him with courses that he may struggle in; also important will be upcoming networking events where he can learn more about his career and make important contacts.
“I used to be very shy and not ask for help,” David admits. “But now I’m looking forward to finding out about all the resources available to me. I am really grateful for this scholarship and can’t wait to show everyone what I can accomplish in the future. I look forward to helping people.”
PCF Scholars is a Collaborative Partnership
Established in the 2019 academic school year, PCF Scholars is an education grant program to assist Pasadena students who are graduating from high school and enrolling in Pasadena City College (PCC). Combining need-based financial assistance and long-term support from counselors and mentors, the program relies on local partnerships to help worthy Pasadena students achieve their college education dreams.
PCF Scholar partners include:
The College Access Plan (CAP) provides the framework that recruits and helps select PCF Scholar participants. CAP coordinators are a vital and ongoing contact for the scholars during their college career, offering resources and opportunity advice.
PCC Foundation process flexible emergency funds and connects students with additional scholarship opportunities.
PCC Pathways ensures that PCF Scholars receive priority registration and are placed in career communities along with guidance with their educational plan. The Pathways program provides students with counselors who can offer critical support in and out of the classroom, helping them choose a path and stay on it to graduate and complete their academic goals.