Making dreams come true

Many high school students do not continue their education simply because they cannot afford the cost of attending college.

And with annual tuition now approaching $2,500, the financial barrier has become even greater. Being aware of this issue, South Seattle Community College (SSCC) and the college’s foundation have established the 13th Year Promise Scholarship. It gives each 2008 graduating senior at Cleveland High School the chance to attend SSCC tuition-free for one year, regardless of grade point, test scores or income level.

“The 13th Year Promise Scholarship is an innovative way to give more students the opportunity to achieve their career and educational goals,” explained SSCC Foundation Making dreams come true Interim Executive Director Elizabeth Pluhta. She said research shows that a high school diploma and at least one year of college increases a student’s ability to achieve life success. “Too often, students don’t enroll in college because they simply can’t afford it,” she added. “The scholarship removes the financial barrier, so all students have an equal chance for life success.”

SSCC began with Cleveland because the school reflects the diverse demographic of the campus. In the future, the program will be expanded to include all area high schools. Pluhta said the college has received about 55 applications this year out of an entire graduating class of fewer than 100. “This is especially significant given that in the past, only about 10 students from Cleveland High School had attended South each year.” The 13th Year Promise Scholarship awards celebration took place May 14 in the Alhadeff Grill.

Attendees included scholarship recipients and their families, Cleveland High School representatives, members of SSCC Foundation and campus community. Unfortunately, of the 55 applications, only 38 received the scholarships, said SSCC director of Student Outreach Admission and Recruitment Rosie Rimando. Scholarship recipient Halimo Elmi is planning to study either ternational Relationships or Society. “It’s a wonderful program that helps me to continue my study,” she said. Joana Bausita is looking forward to the advantages South offers her. “The location is very convenient for me because it’s near my house. I haven’t decided what I’m going to study yet.” Hean Sang Chhay, who graduated from Cleveland High School last year, is studying Nursing at Seattle Central Community College. “It’s a really great program to help students with financial aid. I came here this evening [to the ceremony] to meet the first class of the 13th Year Promise Scholarship recipients and hear more about this exciting new initiative.” Vice President for Student Services Mark Mitsui spoke highly of the scholarship.

“It’s a great program to help students achieve acapractice on and for the welding compound itself. Students learn welding by first making shapes, like cubes, and repeating that process many times in order to perfect their skills. Welding can be dangerous, but with the right precautions, injuries can be minimized or avoided. Thomas has been burned a few times by sparks or falling tools, which are common hazards when working with hot metal. She said that she is always thinking about safety. “I make sure my mind is focused on the task. Basically, it’s just being smart and taking your time. Being patient and not taking your fingers for granted.

” Signs in the building state that everyone must wear eye protection in the work areas. Students also wear elmets with visors that have specially tinted lenses to protect their eyes from the bright torch flames. Thomas customized her helmet with “horns” made of rivets. It is also important to wear long sleeves, heavy, natural fabrics, sturdy shoes and gloves. “Safety is the number one thing in these classes,” said Ali Collins, another welding student studying for a job in Jamie Thomas proudly displays her penguin topiary she will donate to the Point Defiance Zoo auction. Photo by Wylie Steuart demic success,” he said.

Pluhta said the challenge now is to continue the program. “Finding a long-term, sustainable funding source for this project is a challenge, but we think that our community of friends and donors will be excited about this project and will support it.” Contributions can be made in a one-time gift or through recurring gifts. Those who wish to do so can donate online.