Aaron Edwards and Joshua Ramirez, 2019 graduates of Seminole High School, were each awarded a $2,500 scholarship from Occidental.
The Oxy Rising Star Scholarship program is one of the newest local scholarship opportunities incorporated at Seminole High School, beginning spring of 2019. Two $2,500 scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors, who are interested in pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, also known as STEM. These educational disciplines are the foundation of STEM, a term used to describe education and careers that directly relate to hard sciences.
Ramirez is currently attending Odessa College and majoring in Electrical Engineering, while Edwards is attending Tyler Junior College, with a major in Geology. Both students plan to pursue a career in the oil and gas industry.
“I am very thankful for my Oxy scholarship,'' stated Edwards. “It has helped me to focus on my studies and not have to worry about finances. I had a successful first semester, and I appreciate the extra support that the scholarship has given me.”
“Occidental is honored to partner with Seminole High School. We want to continue encouraging students to pursue STEM education that will prepare them for the cutting-edge technology in the oil field of the future,” said Rob Peterson, Senior Vice President of Occidental’s Enhanced Oil Recovery Business.
The selection process was managed by a panel of Seminole High School faculty scholarship committee members. Applicants were selected based on their essay submission, and a variety of criteria such as; a GPA of at least a 3.0, exceptional leadership qualities, and must be in good standing with Seminole High. Last, each applicant had to provide a reference letter from a Seminole ISD faculty member.
“We are very excited that our students are given this opportunity to further their education,” stated Tasha Garcia, SHS Counselor. “We are thankful for Occidental and their commitment to our community. These are two very deserving students and we can expect great things from them in the future.”