Paul

Program of Study: Business Administration

Learning applicable skills such as accounting, economics and administration is important to me so that I can learn how to delegate my time, skills and responsibilities. PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has contributed with resources to pay for my education which gives me more time to focus on my course work. With less time spent on worrying about finances it gives me the confidence of continuing my education. Most importantly I am looking forward to the added services that comes from networking with people from the PepsiCo Scholarship. Thank you!

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Babajide B.

Program of Study: Information Technology

It was a great opportunity to have received this scholarship. It was really important and helpful to me during my final year, I was able to get my classes paid for and purchase text books.

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Eric C.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving my degree and/or certification is important to me because it gives me a sense of accomplishment. I feel that taking advantage of the opportunity to pursue a college education has been worth my time. Investing in yourself is very important. Education is also very important. Positive productivity makes you feel good about yourself and I am enjoying this journey I have begun.

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Kharea C.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving the scholarship has helped me maintain my GPA and work steadily towards my degree with confidence that it is a goal I can achieve. I intend to make it a priority to use my scholarship in ways that will benefit my education.

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Diasha D.

Program of Study: Information Technology

The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship contributed to my education by paying for my tuition bill fees off for me!.!.!.?!!.!.!.?!

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Ora D.

Program of Study: Business Administration

My story may sound like many others, tired of living paycheck to paycheck barely making ends meet, struggling to get ahead, and working in conditions that were not pleasant. But I was determined not to give up and I registered for school after being turned down for a job at McDonald's. Because I had skills in nursing they did not think I was serious and wanted to work, I did not know how I was going to pay for school. I had maxed out my financial aid so I made a payment plan I worked extra hours to pay for my classes and I continued to struggle almost losing my apartment and my mind. But I had a special friend Professor Debra Harper- LaBlanc, she inspired me not to give up but to write and seek out scholarships, so I tried it and PepsiCo heard my cry. I am so blessed and I appreciate everything they have done for me. Pepsico has changed my life. I am now a Junior and I could possibly graduate in the spring of 2023. Thank you, Pepsico for believing in me and offering hope to many others.

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Sandra G.

Program of Study: Business Administration

I can hardly express how grateful I am for being awarded the Pepsi Uplift Scholarship. If it were not for this scholarship, continuing my education would remain a far off dream of mine. This scholarship has made my life long dream a reality. Thank you Pepsi Uplift gift givers for making my dreams come true! Now I can lead by example.

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Ashley H.

Program of Study: Business Administration

I wanted a change and better opportunities for the future. And by receiving an education was the right move toward that direction. PepsiCo has eliminated some of my financial burdens that comes along with while going to school such as paying for books and providing me with resources to help me complete my semester successfully.

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Jermain J.

Program of Study: Transportation (Automotive/CDL)

To better my chances of being financially free.

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Jessica K.

Program of Study: Business Administration

Getting my degree is so important because it will help me reach my career goals and provide a way for me to support myself and family financially. I am so thankful for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship because it helped me provide the funds to take the classes I need. Thank you so much for the support!!!

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Nadou L.

Program of Study: Business Administration

Receiving my degree in Business Administration will help me improve myself, improve my life standing and give my children better opportunities for the studies. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship, throughout the events, the follow up of Vanyah and the scholarship, makes me feel like I'm not alone on this road; it makes me feel like I'm important, my success matters and there are people who are looking after me. That makes me work harder and give the best so that these people could say: "we were right to support her".

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James M.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving my degree is important not only to me but my future family. Having a better-earning career will dramatically increase a better future for the children I plan to have after marriage. The PepsiCo scholarship has decreased stress financially. Allowing me to shift all my focus on school. Thanks for this wonderful opportunity.

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Darwin W.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving my epa universal certification and osha 10 I have been allowed to apply for jobs and start my career in the hvac field . The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship granted me access to financial assistance and other academic resources previously unavailable. Without the financial scholarship I received from PepsiCo, I may have not been able to complete my studies. I'm very grateful for the help I have received from PepsiCo. Thank you PepsiCo for helping me fulfill my academic dreams.

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Samantha W.

Program of Study: Information Technology

I want to obtain this degree because it’s going to allow me to make more funds and to get some experience in a different career. The Pepsi scholarship is assisting with funds for my books and also it allowed me to decrease my employment for a while so that I could focus on my education more.

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Mehari Y.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving my degree would be a great positive change to my career with better earning, and much better working conditions/hours of work/ for me, and it contributes to my goal of building a better family( bringing up my kids in a better way), and will contribute positively to the community I live in. Overall it creates much better conditions for me and my family to work, learn and build a community.

Diane B.

Program of Study: Business Administration

It is important to me because, I am a single mother of six. I put my goals on hold to make sure my children stayed focus on their education. I did not receive my high school diploma until 2017. My youngest child graduated in 2020, the same year I decided that it was time to pursue my goals. Having someone believe in you is really all someone needs to help give them that push. I was scared my first semester but now two years later I am due to graduate in the spring with my first degree. I am so proud and grateful; I'm not stopping until I receive my B. A. in Business and pass the CPA exam. Thank You for your support and believing in me.

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Jasmine B.

Program of Study: Information Technology

My degree is important to me because I don't want to struggle my whole life. I'm tired of living paycheck to paycheck; barely making ends meet, robbing Peter to pay Paul. I sick of debt and asking my parents or aunts and cousins for a loan for rent, to pay for mechanical services to my car, or help with my car note if my check is short. I eat when I'm at work, most of the time I go straight from work to home or school to home. My schedule is so fixed right now that I don't really have an off day because I go to school on my off days and mostly have to do homework at night after work. I've been having a lot of car problems starting just before the flood in July 2022 that totaled my original car; scrambling around to get another with less than $500 in my pocket, then when I finally do get one the "KIA Boys" attack less than two weeks of my having the car and my car is in the shop for almost three months mostly waiting on parts because now they're had to find. I need a change, I want to do more and have something more than just working my life away and being mad that rent has gone up another $25 a month and being told "It's only $25, you can handle it. It's nothing." as if money grew on trees and I'd just have to wait until spring. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship helped because it allows me not to pick and choose what necessary items or bill will have to be sacrificed to benefit the other as school is considered. If I'm not worrying about where the money for school is coming from, I can turn my attention to other areas. When I do have a actual career I'll have more than enough money that I'll even enroll things like 'autopay' on my bills and not wounder if it will be covered because that particular day isn't my payday. Even though it's hard to juggle everything I keep doing it because as that old saying goes, "If you keep doing what you've been doing, you'll keep getting what you've always gotten." and I don't want that. I'm going to have to change to get a better life, so I'm in school to learn how and I'm learning interesting things along the way. I like learning new things and how they work. I like it when things make sense; when you stop learning then you stop growing.

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Timothy D.

Program of Study: Transportation (Automotive/CDL)

Without PepsiCo I would not have been able to finish school.

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Taylor F.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing (HVAC, Welding)

My certifications are important to me because they have truly changed my life. With these certifications under my belt I have been able to launch a career that has granted me financial literacy and stability. The PepsiCo Uplift Foundation has contributed to my education tremendously! If it wasn’t for them granting me the opportunity of free education I wouldn’t be in the position Im in today. This opportunity has allowed me to grow into an amazing business professional. Most of all this gave me confidence, the confidence I had lost at a point in time. Every time I tell my story my heart fills with joy because I am blessed. This opportunity, the people, the education has been a blessing that I will never forget!

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Christopher J.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving a certificate for information technology is highly important for me as I plan to explore the I.T world after graduation. The PepsiCo scholarship has helped me a lot and has been very resourceful.

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Jamyron N.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

Receiving my degree/certifications is important to me simply because it's helping me further my career in the field of my dreams. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship contributed tremendously to my education by providing me with the best instructors and friendly environment.

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Shon N.

Program of Study: Business Administration

It’s important because it will one day be a representation of all of the hard work of not only me but of the ones before me whose sacrifices made it possible for me today. Which, is why I am forever grateful for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship for helping me obtain my goal by lifting the heavy financial burden of paying for school.

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Raysean R.

Program of Study: Business Administration

I’m currently working on starting my own business and also starting businesses for my children. This scholarship has helped me obtain a laptop and devices to help me do my schoolwork.

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Melerie S.

Program of Study: Business Administration

Receiving the Business Administration degree is an important part of my self-improvement plan. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has helped with the purchase of my new laptop.

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Theresa S.

Program of Study: Information Technology

It’s important to me because I want to set a good example for my son. Show him the right path to take in life. PepsiCo helped make this a stress free experience.

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Christina W.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Getting a degree is very important for me because it has, and will continue to give me, amazing opportunities that the rest of my family will never have access to. I'm getting lined up for a job, published work I'm proud of and taught me so much. This Pepsi scholarship helps me to focus fully on my studies and not worry about if I can afford the classes I'm taking.

Carl B.

Program of Study: Business Administration

Education has always been my forte and the main component in my life I believe anyone can learn anything they desire at any age. And receiving my degree is very significant, especially the many challenges I've encountered in my past trying to strive in every way possible but I believe this degree will open many doors giving me opportunities to someday start a successful business multiple things I see fit my character and personality. I truly thank the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship people behind this program for their contribution to creating a way for individuals underestimated from underrepresented communities and demographics who want to prosper in life like myself. I am thankful for the financial relief to assist people who pursue a degree in business administration to have a promising career. I appreciate everything this foundation is doing to have people like myself be able to succeed. I'm practically the first one who is making the effort to graduate especially at my age amongst my parent's children.

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Amadou D.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving the scholarship helps me reducing my financial burdens and provides assistance for me as I continue pursuing my education.

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Nya R.

Program of Study: Business Administration

A degree will put me one step closer to having a successful career. Having the assistance from PepsiCo has allowed me to make connections and save money for future planning while also providing multiple resources/ services to ensure degree completion.

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Kevin Y.

Program of Study: Business Administration

My degree is important to me because I want to show my kids that it is never too late to go to and finish school. I want to show them that if their dad can do it, they can do it too. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has eased the burden of tuition and has given me the opportunity to take more classes without being worried about how I will be able to afford them.

Jessica A.

Program of Study: Business Administration

It is important for me to receive my degree to help provide for my family in a better way. With me getting this scholarship it will help me get little things that is needed for school that I could not get before.

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Taquesha B.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving this degree means so much to me as I will be a first generation college graduate in my family. The PepsiCo Uplift scholarship has made it easier to be able to afford school and not have to worry about how I am going to pay for school.

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Shannon H.

Program of Study: Business Administration

It’s important for me to succeed in life with hopes of furthering myself in the business field. PepsiCo gave me the opportunity to afford college and continue my success in graduating college.

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Lamonte H.

Program of Study: Information Technology

Receiving my degree is important because it allows me into doors that looked down at those without degrees. I've been a self taught developer for almost a decade and to get into the door when you aren't doing contract/freelance work you need a BA minimum and this scholarship has allowed me to fund this opportunity at a greater career. PepsiCo Uplift has made me a proud student at St. Louis Community College because it shows you that sometimes if you just work a little harder, you can get the help you need to succeed in the areas you felt lacking.

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Kimberly J.

Program of Study: Business Administration

Receiving my degree is important to me because I am leading by example for my children. I want them to know that they can accomplish anything they put their mind to. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship is allowing me to do that by covering my tuition in full. It is the only aid I am receiving and it will see me through graduation in the Fall of 2023! I am forever grateful for this opportunity.

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Terry'l R.

Program of Study: Business Administration

It is important to relieve my degree because I got a lot to prove and offer. This scholarship program has helped me all around from the check ins we had to make sure iif they could further assist and just mental wellness check to financially lifting burden off of figuring out how things like books would get paid for.

Alphonso B. Jr.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing (HVAC, Welding)

It was very crucial that I got this class done because it helped me decide which direction I wanted to fill in life.

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Maharajah C.

Program of Study:Information Technology

Education is the passport to life.

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Johnathan H.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

It has dramatically help launch my HVAC CAREER. It’s allowed me to start a new career in this growing industry

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Justin J.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

Receiving my HVAC Certification will grown my “small black business” to the next level of building maintenance.

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Thomas K.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

Opens up a world of possibilities, I can pursue my dream job, enhance my skills and serve my community .

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Trenton M.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

It was important for me to receive my HVAC certification because it will serve purposeful in the field of maintenance and solidifies me employment for years to come. The scholarship has allowed me to open up to a new field of employment and options in the workforce.

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Amory W.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

I believe it is important to me for many reasons but the one most important is the ability to accomplish goals I’ve set. Letting me know I can achieve anything I put my mind to. Thanks to PepsiCo they paved the way for a better opportunity.

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Daniel W.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing

Receiving the HVAC operator 1 certification has allowed me to enter into a career with a good hvac company in the St. Louis area. None of this would have been possible without the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. Through this scholarship I was able to attend a class taught by an incredible instructor named John Hope, who really gave me a great introductory into the hvac field and sparked my interest in it even more so. Within those 2 weeks of class i earned my epa universal & osha 10. During my process of applying for the company I’m with now (Classic Air Care) , I was able to stand out with my epa certification as it showed my dedication and seriousness about pursuing a career in HVAC. I now am I driver for them until my training classes begin , but i am still seeing first hand what it is like to be in this field , whether it’s making trash runs and meeting with installers and service techs or making deliveries where I am meeting salesmen/warehouse crew at local part stores. Needless to say I am getting the full experience!

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Torrion W.

Program of Study: Advanced Manufacturing (HVAC, Welding)

Receiving my HVAC certification was important to me because I wanted to change my career and thanks to Pepsico uplift scholarship it was a very easy process.