For DonorsFor Applicants

William A. Stuart Dream Scholarship

$2,000
2 winners, $1,000 each
Awarded
Application Deadline
Mar 30, 2024
Winners Announced
Apr 30, 2024
Education Level
High School, Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school senior, undergraduate, or trade school student
Field of Study:
Mechanics, engineering, or computer software

William A. Stuart was a lifelong student who loved hands-on learning. 

From creating new techniques to help him run faster on the track or break pole vaulting heights in high school to joining the Marine Corps to learn the discipline needed as an adult, Bill continued to set new goals as a life habit. He was forever tinkering and rebuilding car engines and tearing laptops apart to make them "run cooler."

Bill never got the chance to complete a college education due to health challenges, but he never stopped trying to learn. At age 60, he applied to the University of Pennsylvania as an MIS/Computer Science student in a program full of 20-year-olds who called him 'Pops.'

This scholarship aims to honor the life of William A. Stuart by supporting students who share his passion for learning.

Any high school senior, undergraduate, or trade school student who is pursuing mechanics, engineering, or computer software may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, tell us about your academic and professional goals and how this scholarship will help you achieve them.

Selection Criteria:
Need, Goal(s), Drive
Published November 1, 2023
Essay Topic

What are your education and career goals? How will you use this scholarship to reach those goals?

400–600 words

Winning Applications

Alexandra Ding
Aragon High SchoolSAN MATEO, CA
Yousef Mahdy
Tarrant County College DistrictFort Worth, TX
As a student deeply passionate about mechanical engineering, I am committed to leveraging my academic studies and extracurricular experiences to achieve my personal and professional goals while making a positive impact in my community. Throughout my academic journey and involvement in various activities, I have cultivated a strong foundation in engineering principles, leadership skills, and a dedication to service that aligns with my aspirations. Growing up in Kuwait to Palestinian parents, I have always been inspired by the power of engineering to address societal challenges. My transition to the U.S. just before my ninth grade presented me with unique cultural and educational experiences, shaping my perspective and igniting my passion for mechanical engineering. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new educational system and cultural nuances, my determination to excel academically remained unwavering. I undertook a rigorous course load, including 10 AP classes and placing top 3% in my class, to ensure I was well-prepared for college and my future career in engineering. Beyond the classroom, I actively engaged in multicultural weeks to share aspects of my Palestinian heritage and foster cross-cultural relationships. These experiences not only enriched my understanding of diverse cultures but also reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and empathy in engineering solutions. My commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond academic pursuits to community service and extracurricular activities. During my junior year, I worked full-time at Urban Air Trampoline Park, where I served as a manager overseeing a team of over 20 employees. This experience provided me with invaluable leadership skills and a firsthand understanding of operational management, particularly in the areas of mechanics and sustainability. Witnessing the wastage of batteries and excessive energy consumption at the park sparked my interest in environmental conservation and sustainable engineering practices. At Tarrant County College, while balancing multiple campuses and a demanding full-time job at UPS, I remained dedicated to my academic and personal growth. Despite the challenges, I actively sought opportunities to contribute to my community, whether through volunteer work or involvement in STEM clubs. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and using engineering as a tool for social change. Looking ahead, I am eager to continue my academic and professional journey at UT Austin, where I hope to further develop my skills in mechanical engineering and contribute to cutting-edge research initiatives. Specifically, I am drawn to research opportunities in sustainable energy development and environmental conservation, where I can apply my knowledge and passion to address pressing global challenges. In conclusion, my academic studies, community service, and extracurricular activities have prepared me to pursue my personal and professional goals in mechanical engineering. I am committed to leveraging my skills and experiences to make a meaningful impact in my community and contribute to the advancement of engineering solutions for a sustainable future.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Mar 30, 2024. Winners will be announced on Apr 30, 2024.