ONIF Dual Student Spotlight
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This summer, two Lions were awarded Ebell Scholarships: Chanya Jeffries, Communication Studies '23, and Alexis Mendez, Mechanical Engineering '23. Ebell Scholars receive $5,000 annually towards educational expenses.
Below, Chanya (she/her/hers) and Alexis (she/her/hers) share their application experience:
September 17, 2021
Name of award and a brief description: The Ebell of Los Angeles Scholarship. This scholarship is designed for students who live and attend a four-year or two-year institution in Los Angeles County. Scholars are ultimately chosen based on economic need, academic achievement, and community service.
What are your current or future career plans?
Chanya: After finishing undergrad, I would like to attend graduate school studying something that aligns with my interest in child care and non-profit work. I really would like to go into non-profit work, possibly working at the foundation of a professional sports team.
Alexis: I had a summer internship at ThinKom Solutions in summer 2021 and 2022, and hope to work there as a mechanical engineer once I graduate. I intend to get my master's in aerospace engineering.
What inspired you to apply?
Chanya: My parents have raised my sisters and me to work hard and earn everything in life. I have seen the sacrifice they have made throughout the years in order for my sisters and me to receive a high-quality education and I wanted to apply for this award in hopes to show my gratitude.
Alexis: It was a great match for me and I knew it would be a great achievement if I won the award. I am always looking for more ways to make my mom proud.
What was the most challenging part of the application process?
Chanya: The most challenging part of the application was making sure I actually completed the application, There were supplemental pieces required, and following up on those and obtaining them was more complicated than I expected.
Alexis: The interview was the most challenging because I was very nervous, but the interview went great and I did well.
What advice do you have for future applicants?
Chanya: Go into it confident. I think if you consider applying you know there is a part of you that knows you deserve the award in the first place.
Alexis: Start working on the application early and do not wait until the deadline to submit it. Talk about yourself in the personal statement and interview like you are your own biggest fan. Make sure they know how awesome you are and brag about your accomplishments.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
Chanya: I think people would be surprised to know that I've never broken a bone even though I'm quite clumsy.
Alexis: I am going to state some facts about myself. I am 5 ft tall but have a big personality. My curly hair is natural, but no one else in my family has curly hair. I have run 2 full marathons and both were under 5 hours. I coach baseball and have 2 teams. I speak English and Spanish. I have been dedicated to my career goals since I was in 2nd grade. Every decision I have made has been towards my future success. I was tested for being gifted by LAUSD in 3rd grade and passed.
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To learn more about the Ebell Scholarship, visit https://ebellofla.com/club/philanthropy/scholarship/ or contact ONIF. Applications are due in late March.