Recent West High graduate Nicole Tavui has dreamed of attending college since she was a child, but knew that because of her financial situation the chances were slim.
Thanks to two U outreach groups, Tavui will now be able to receive a college education. She was recently awarded a scholarship that will cover tuition for her first year of college at the U.
“I’m happy and relieved because it takes a lot of stress off of me and off my parent’s shoulders,” said Tavui, who hopes to major in business or pre-dentistry.
The U Alumni Association and University Neighborhood Partners sponsored the scholarship, which is renewable for a second year. The organizations teamed up to connect the U with disadvantaged west side neighborhoods, said John Fackler, director of business relations for the Alumni Association.
“We wanted to continue our outreach with UNP by establishing a scholarship to a deserving student,” Fackler said.
UNP Director Rosemarie Hunter said in a statement that support from the Alumni Association “is the type of support that will make a difference in the lives of west Salt Lake youth and families.”
Tavui, who earned the scholarship because of her academic record and community involvement, said her little brothers look up to her and “have a greater desire (to attend) college.” She will be the first member of her family to go to college.
“Getting the scholarship was a confidence booster,” Tavui said.