Interview with Warhawk Lancer Scholarship Recipient
Yadira, a 2021 graduate of North Chicago Community High School and recipient of the Warhawk Lancer Scholarship, didn’t always know what she wanted to be when she grew up. But she did know her mother dreamed of pursuing post-secondary education. “I kind of saw myself in my mother’s image, in that when she was younger, she always wanted to be something in the medical field. She wanted to be a doctor or nurse, but unfortunately she wasn’t able to complete that goal for herself.”
Determined to make her mother’s dreams a reality, Yadira began taking classes at Lake County Tech Campus in Grayslake. “I started liking it a lot, and I kind of want to complete that goal for my mother.”
Receiving the Warhawk Lancer Scholarship has allowed Yadira the freedom to attend college and still support her family. Her father was recently injured, so she and her mother provide financially for the family. “With the job that I have, I help pay bills and get anything that we need at home.” The scholarship stipends help with gas and grocery expenses. “It gave me a sense of relief. I feel that if I didn’t have the scholarship, I would be more stressed.”
The scholarship is more than financial assistance for students attending the College of Lake County; guidance counselors from the high school walk beside students every step of the way. Monthly meetings ensure that students stay on track and receive the help they need. “Last semester I had a difficult time with one of my classes. Ms. Kenney helped me to not stress too much.” To scholarship recipients like Yadira, help is just a phone call away. “It gave me a sense of relief because I knew I had staff with me along the way. They’ll help me out whether I feel like I’m struggling or won’t make it with this class. They’ll help me and put me back on track on the path they think will help me best.” It’s this personal relationship with North Chicago staff that makes all the difference for the success of students.
Learn more
To hear the entire interview, visit Faith’s YouTube channel.
If you’d like to support students like Yadira, consider taking part in our annual Faith on the Fairway golf outing, which raises money for the Warhawk Lancer Scholarship. Not a golfer? Not a problem! You can come for the dinner and silent auction. Register today at www.faithonthefairway.org.