The PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholarship Student Testimonials

April Deshotel – Cybersecurity

I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me the opportunity to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is April Deshotel, and I am a student at HCC studying cybersecurity. I am the first person in my family to attend college. I never considered going to college after high school because I thought it would be too difficult and stressful. But I was wrong.

My goal after I gain my associate degree is to further my education and tr

ansfer to Colorado State University to get my master’s degree in information technology and work for companies such as Cognite, BMC Software, Google, and others.

My financial burden has been lifted. I would not have been able to continue my education without this scholarship, and for that I am beyond grateful.

Damon Cole – Logistics and Global Supply Chain Management

I am honored to have been considered, and more humbled to have been awarded, the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. It is because of your generosity that I am that much closer to realizing my dream of becoming an entrepreneur.

I am currently a junior at Lamar University. I also work full-time and have a beautiful family of five. My current job requires a bachelor’s degree or a certification to move to the next level. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has opened the door and allowed me to be able to pursue a Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist certification from Houston Community College.

There have been times, especially during the pandemic, when acts of kindness from strangers have changed lives. Your kindness in awarding me this scholarship has been life-changing. Now I will be able to advance my career and continue pursuing a Bachelor of Business Management degree without having to sacrifice the necessities due to financial strain.

Daven Bell – Commercial Truck Driving

My name is Daven Bell and I sincerely want to thank you for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. Along the way I fell in love with vehicles and driving, and the program I’ve selected is truck driving. This scholarship will help me achieve my dream of getting the right training to be able to obtain my commercial driver’s license (CDL) and to expand my knowledge and experience in the industry.

I started my journey in driving with the City of Houston, where I helped with deliveries and learned how to drive various vehicles such as cargo vans and pickup trucks. This scholarship will give me the right tools and knowledge to expand my skillset and take my career it to a whole new level. Thank you again for huge blessing and opportunity! It means the world to me and my family. This scholarship has been an inspiration and motivation for those around me to go after their goals and dreams in life. You can do anything if you put your mind to it! We all are destined for greatness!

Elizabeth Mojekwu – Cybersecurity

Thank you for the opportunity to receive the Uplift Scholarship. My name is Elizabeth Mojekwu. When I first started college, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I enrolled in HCC in 2011, studying to become a certified personal trainer. But I realized that was something I was not enthusiastic about. I ended up changing my major a couple of times until I settled on cybersecurity. I chose this major because I’ve always had people tell me how good I am with computers and growing up helping my dad with them.

My goal is to graduate from HCC and pursue higher education. I want to be able to help people with computer problems and to teach them how to use a computer. This scholarship will help me further my goals and build up the skills that will help me in the future. I didn’t think that I would get this far school wise. But now I have a lot to work for. I have family and friends that are rooting for me.

Emily Allen – Cybersecurity

Thank you for selecting me as a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship recipient for the fall 2022 semester at Houston Community College. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in 2016; however, due to some extensive medical complications I endured throughout my undergraduate studies, I became physically disabled and needed to change career paths.

Cybersecurity is something that has always piqued my interest since graduating from college. For as long as I can remember I have had a strong passion for anything that has to do with technology. I have chosen to pursue my Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Systems Networking with a specialization in Cybersecurity at HCC because their program is nationally recognized by the National Security Agency.

My long-term goal is to receive my bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from SHSU and pursue a doctorate in digital and cyber forensics from Sam Houston as well. This scholarship has given my family peace of mind and not having to worry about how we are going to pay for my education. Thank you to not only PepsiCo but to all the generous donors that have blessed me with this wonderful opportunity.

Erica Frias – Digital Communication

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to you for making the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship possible. I was thrilled to learn of my selection for this honor, and I sincerely appreciate your support.

This fall, I will continue as a digital communications major with an emphasis in graphic design. I have always had an interest in the arts and technology. In our modern world, design and typography can persuade an audience to engage in a photo, article or product. My goal is to understand this social responsibility and use it in a humanitarian, sustainable, and eco-friendly manner. Thanks to you, I am closer to that goal.

By awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on my studies and designs. In addition, your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community.

Esteban Soto – Auto Body Collision Repair

Thank you for selecting me to receive the PepsiCo UPLIFT Scholarship. I’ve always had a love for cars since I was just a kid, and having my dad working in a body repair shop next to our house just made me love it much more because I could always see the different types of cars that were brought in.

My short-term goals are to go to college, work, save money and earn my certificate in collision repair. My long-term goals are to work at a body repair shop either as an estimator or a collision repairer, gain experience, and open up my own shop or help other people with estimates/repairs on their cars on my own time.

This scholarship is beneficial for me since it will allow me to pay for my education, as well as save money to pay for tools. This scholarship helps since I don’t have to pay for my tuition out-of-pocket which is good for me and my parents. It also will help me to finish college, making me the first person in my household to have done so!

Gina Monti – Digital Communication

My name is Gina Monti, and I am honored and grateful to be a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a native Houstonian and a non-traditional student. When I began my studies at HCC, I was living in a homeless shelter and have had to overcome much in the pursuit of my academic and professional goals.

I also have been living with a disabling health condition for over 26 years, but through perseverance and by the grace of God, I recently was deemed medically improved. I learned of the scholarship award during a time of great financial insecurity. Thankfully, it will cover the costs of tuition, fees, and books. I will be able to rejoin the workforce with marketable and competitive skills, which is uplifting news indeed!

No longer homeless, today I am working part time as a development and communications assistant for a local nonprofit that assists marginalized populations in the Houston area with food, housing, and mental health programs. In a digital age where clients and supporters connect virtually to seek services, it is crucial to have the professional skills to tell our organization’s story and to nurture these relationships so people get the help they need to live better lives, which is why I am seeking a workforce certificate in digital communication.

Ijeoma Ehieze Ebo – Cybersecurity

I truly appreciate my selection as a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship and I promise to do my best in my journey into cybersecurity and the IT world. I am a small business owner who had a setback during COVID-19. I decided to retrain in skills that will enrich my functionality in today's industry.

I have a background in nonprofit training and have worked in the healthcare and oil and gas industries in the past. I realized that adding some technical and cybersecurity skills will give me an edge in my career. My long-term goal is to be trained well in order to train others as an instructor or consultant. My short-term goal is to help companies by using my skills. Thank you for what you are doing for humanity.

Jasmine Thomas – Logistics and Global Supply Chain Management

Thank you for this awesome opportunity to receive a PepsiCo uplift scholarship. My name is Jasmine Thomas I'm from Houston, Texas. I'm currently majoring in supply chain global logistics. I plan to graduate with an associate degree in logistics and afterward I plan on getting a good job in a career that I love and that best suits me. Education has always been my first and last priority because in the neighborhood I grew up in it is easy to get distracted by the wrong thing.

My determination to not become another statistic is what keeps me focused and self-assured that my goals will one day pay off. I am doing everything I can make sure that I become the best. The PepsiCo scholarship will ensure that my classes and books are paid for the semester. On behalf of me and my family, I am very appreciative of this opportunity.

Jeremiah Plumber – Computing Networking/Cybersecurity

Thank you so much for your philanthropic efforts and contributions to the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Jeremiah and I graduated high school in the Houston area. I am pursuing an associate of science degree in computer networking and cyber-security. Once I’ve earned my degree, I plan to continue to earn relevant certifications and gain experience in the workforce while continuing my education towards a bachelor’s degree. It’s because of donors like you I’m able to pursue a dream that would’ve otherwise been a more difficult road. Thank you again for your donation and the opportunities made available to people like me.

Jeremy Cole – Cybersecurity

I am writing to thank you for awarding me a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship and for assisting me with my education. I have been in IT for several years and I am dedicated to technology. I am pursuing a career in cybersecurity and I plan on working in project management. My long-term goals are to complete my education in cybersecurity and Cisco CCNP. I plan to specialize in Cisco and I have a passion for cybersecurity. I am very appreciative of your funding for my education. This really means a lot to me. My family is grateful because I have been trying to improve my education all the while. Thank you once again.  

Jermail Marshall – Logistics/Global Supply Chain Management

I would like to thank you for awarding me a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship, which will allow me to continue my education. I have had a challenging time finding which career and degree to pursue and for that reason, my education was not a priority for me. After years of trying different career paths, I realized that I have a passion for logistics and supply chain management which is the reason I have chosen to pursue a degree in Logistics and Global Supply Chain Management. Again I would like to thank you not only for the financial support but also for allowing me the opportunity to further my career and education.

Jesse Cisneros – Automotive Technology

Thank you so much for the opportunity to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Jesse Cisneros, I am 25 years old and I was born and raised in Houston. I recently signed up for my automotive certification. I have a strong passion for fixing vehicles and learning about the components and how they work. Since I was a little kid, I was raised up around vehicles and watching my dad fix them. As I started growing up it was something I wanted to do for my career. Being in the automotive field and receiving my associate’s degree in automotive is my goal.

My short-term goal is to be a sponge and learn as much as I can to become an automotive technician with a dealership. My long-term goal is open my own shop once I have the experience and the tools. This scholarship will help me with buying books and tools for my automotive certification class. It also helps me keep my mind at ease and focus on passing my classes. My family and I are grateful for the opportunity you have granted me and giving me the resources to pass my classes. Thank you so much.

Juwan Noel – Digital Communication

My name is Juwan Noel and I would like to thank you for your generous donation. I am a 25-year-old Digital Communications major from Houston. I like to draw in my free time, and I really enjoy self-improvement books. I plan on starting a media production company in the future and using some of the proceeds to donate to the Equal Rights Initiative program. This scholarship will greatly help me afford classes and books for the fall semester. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to finish college and to be the first in my family to do so. Thanks so much for helping me in this journey.

Keeyatta Russell – Cybersecurity

I would like to start off by saying thank you so much for granting me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a small-town girl from North Carolina who has big dreams and big faith! I moved here to Houston just a year ago with only the things I could pack in my little Ford Fusion. I came here with dreams of spreading my wings and finding a career.

My short-term goal is to go back to school to pursue a career in the technology field. I am currently on the track to pursue cybersecurity. This scholarship will help me tremendously by giving me the opportunity to begin taking classes. I am so grateful for your generosity! This unique opportunity will help me to reach dreams I never thought were possible. With your help, my dreams will become reality!

Miguel Perez – Cybersecurity

Thank you so much for this scholarship. I am infinitely grateful for the help you are extending to my future career. As a second-year student at Houston Community College, I have two semesters left to complete my degree. Your donation will take a significant amount of financial burden off of me and my family. I feel very lucky to have been chosen. It is very admirable of PepsiCo to help students like me reach our goals. The world needs more actions like these. God bless you.

Nikolas Martinez – Automotive Technology

Thank you for granting me the PepsiCo Uplift scholarship to help me continue my journey to obtain my degree in automotive technology. I recently made a career change into retail management, but I decided that it was not the right path for me and took a few years off with the intention to re-enroll for an automotive program. Now I am pursuing my goal to become an automotive technician. In the short term I hope to obtain two degrees – automotive technology and diesel technology.

With my experience in retail management and my partner's career path in business we hope to open our own business in the automotive industry. This scholarship helps relieve the stress that comes with working fulltime and while attending school. It allows me the ability to focus more on school and invest in my future to continue the success I've had thus far. Obtaining the associate of applied science degree in automotive technology is the first step in my long-term career goal of becoming a small business owner in the automotive and diesel industry.

Osagie Ighodaro – Cybersecurity

Thank you for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship opportunity to continue my education. My name is Osagie Ighodaro, I am originally from Nigeria, West Africa. I am a U.S Army veteran with multiple overseas tours, awards and decorations. I am currently studying cybersecurity. My short-term goal is an associate of applied science in cybersecurity and my long-term goal is to get a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

This scholarship will go a very long way in taking a lot of financial burden off my shoulders and giving me the wherewithal to focus more on my studies. Thank you, PepsiCo Uplift, for the generous offer to further my educational ambitions. I am grateful for this. It means a lot to me and my family.

Quiana Smith – Digital Communication

Thank you for selecting me as a recipient of your generous PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a Digital Communication major with an emphasis on photography and web design. Upon graduating from HCC I plan to pursue a career as a vlogger/influencer in the health and beauty space on YouTube and other social media platforms. I hold an associate degree in fashion merchandising from HCC and plan to use this certification to enhance my long-term goal to be self-sufficient as a successful entrepreneur. After graduation, I plan on doing some freelance web designing to use as a gateway into the digital communication industry. Thanks to you, I am one step closer to that goal.

By awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship you have lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school which is learning. This scholarship will help me cope through this inflationary time with high gas prices. I will use my resources to take care of my family. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me. My family and I are so thankful. It inspires all of them to further their education.

Robert Gutierrez – Cybersecurity

I am beyond thrilled about receiving the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am genuinely thankful for the help of your generous contribution to my studies. I am a father of six children. I was born and raised in Houston and I’m passionate about working with computers and technology. My long-term goal is to be employed as a cybersecurity analyst.

The degree program I have chosen at HCC will help me reach my career goals and have the chance to work in the cyber field. This scholarship will help with the costs of my college courses and allow me to continue to excel with my academic work at HCC. I hope to eventually find an internship in Houston. Without your helpful and gracious contribution, it would not be possible to continue my education. This contribution means a lot to my family and me since I will have the chance to inspire my kids to continue their education and that anything is possible as long as you put your mind to it.

Santos Flores – Accounting

Thank you for providing me with the means to pay for tuition and books this term. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship bridges the financial gap needed for me to pursue a career in accounting and I greatly appreciate this generous contribution. I am currently in my last two terms at HCC with the hopes of finishing the education requirements to sit for the CPA exam next year. This puts me on track to start a career in accounting by next summer and become a young professional in my field. My long-term goals include working in a Big 4 accounting firm and specialize in conducting Audits. Your kindness will go a long way in enabling all of my hopes and dreams to come true.

Shanicqua Weston – Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Thank you for selecting me to receive a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I came from a one- parent household, from poverty and struggle. I am passionate about my career in the logistics and supply chain workforce. My short-term goal is to graduate while maintaining my current position on the Dean’s List and as Summa Cum Laude of my class.

My long-term goal is to be able to provide for my family and have stability throughout my lifetime and to leave a legacy for my children. If it wasn’t for this scholarship, it would be more difficult to reach my goals of having the financial stability I will need throughout my life. Completing my associate degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is my path to achieving it. I would personally like to thank the HCC Foundation and PepsiCo for granting me and my family this help and opportunity to achieve my education goals.

Stephen Ajibade –Logistics and Supply Chain Management

I would like to thank you for the PepsiCo Uplift scholarship I have received. These funds will go towards my tuition and textbooks needed for my classes this semester. I am the oldest of five siblings, moving back and forth between the United States and the United Kingdom. We settled back to Houston seven years ago. Having to adapt to changing environments has been a challenge that has turned into a blessing. Going from a single-parent household to a wonderful, blended family has taught me valuable lessons about character and my own self-worth.

I am 29 and returning to college after taking four years out of the school to work to help support my family. After falling in love with learning again and wanting to chase new goals I have set for myself I am now embarking on my passion, which is to one day owning my own logistics consulting company to bring more international trade between different countries and the US.

My short-term goals are to finish my associate degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, begin worki within a warehouse or logistics consulting company and gain more experience within the trade. Once I receive my bachelor’s degree, I plan to work my way to upper management. This is possible with this scholarship. It is great to know that there are people out there who want to help which inspires and motivates me to one day be in a position to do the same.

Titilayo Awoniyi – Cybersecurity

I want to thank you for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Titilayo Awoniyi. I am a single, quadriplegic wheelchair-bound African American lady who became an orphan a few months ago. I am currently enrolled in the HCC Continuing Education Advanced Cybersecurity program. I am also involved as a member and social media manager of the Women In Cybersecurity Houston affiliate. My goal is to obtain professional certification to get a job in cybersecurity, then go to law school to become an attorney in cybersecurity.

I really appreciate this scholarship since I plan to take one of the certification exams in December 2022. In the meantime, I will seize the opportunity to work with the HCC Career & Job Placement Services to complete my resume to upload to the job bank. This scholarship means a lot to me since I was not financially capable of obtaining the certification without it.

Victor Rodriguez – Computer Networking

Thank you for selecting me as a recipient of the PepsiCo UPLIFT Scholarship. My name is Victor Rodriguez and I am originally from the border town of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. My passion is technology and computer networks, computers in an enterprise environment, and operating systems. My short-term goals are to graduate with a degree in Artificial Intelligence at HCC, and my long-term goal is to become a teacher and inspire students to keep learning just like the teachers that inspire me.

This scholarship and the Artificial Intelligence degree plan at HCC will help me reach my goals in cybersecurity. I am thankful for your generosity. I am still thinking this is a dream because I have never won anything like this in my life. My father used to tell me not to leave it to luck. He would say to me, “You have your health, you got working arms and working legs. Show people how good of a good worker you are.” Just like my father I want to be a role model for my nieces and nephews. Once again, I want to thank you for your generosity.

Thank you for the PepsiCo Uplift scholarship that was generously awarded

 Amy Ortiz – Graphic Design

My name is Amy Ortiz. I am 27, I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and I am a single mother of two. It has been a struggle juggling it all with little help. I am currently getting my Associate of Applied Science at Houston Community College.

Thank you so much for the PepsiCo Uplift scholarship. I am in my second year, and I am close to graduating. I am very passionate about my career in visual communication specializing in graphic design.

I cannot wait to be a helping part of my community once I have completed my studies. I plan to help inspire people with the skills I have learned and to help bring my community together. What I love about graphic design is being able to bring ideas and vision into something real and tangible. I am one step closer thanks to your generosity.

Ashley Mercer – Information Technology

I am grateful for PepsiCo granting me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship to continue my education. My name is Ashley Mercer. I was born in Houston, but I was raised in Austin, Texas. I am pursuing an AAS in Information Technology at Houston Community College. I plan to use my scholarship funds to continue taking classes and training in cybersecurity. My academic plan is to finish my associate degree at HCC and to transfer to Hampton University to complete my bachelor’s degree.

As a woman of color, it is essential to me that I distinguish myself as a pioneer for diversity in the tech industry. My goal is to collaborate with other like-minded individuals to create a movement, a change, and a revolution in society. I am committed to becoming a leader in not only the community but to be a person of inspiration within my own family. I will continue to develop my skills, contribute back to the community and be an influential leader. Doing so would not only be personally fulfilling, but it would inspire other women and people of color to pursue careers in the tech field.

Benneth Akpa – Computer Networking

My name is Benneth Akpa. I want to thank you for your generosity in awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. This means a lot to me and my family. My mom and dad are also thankful for this opportunity you have given me to complete my CCNA course for the first quarter of 2021-22.

I come from an African household. Both my mom and dad are from Nigeria. They have done a lot to get me where I am. I was able to get my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I was a manager most of my professional career, but my passion lies in computer technology. My brother taught me about the technical side of computers. From that moment on I love learning about computers and how they work. I was introduced to network engineering while I was obtaining my A+ certification. I knew that is what I want to do as my career. I love how complicated the network infrastructure is designed. My biggest goal is to learn everything there is to know about networking.

My mom worked so much to raise me, my big brother and three little sisters. Unfortunately, one of my sisters passed away from sickle cell anemia complications. I know everybody is still hurting as much as I am. Even though my mom still finds the strength to keep working, I know she is getting tired, and her knees are not as strong as they used to be. Growing up I barely saw my mom. Now I want to make sure I can repay her for everything she has done for me and my siblings.

When I complete my CCNA training I will be able to put my mom and dad into retirement – something they both deserve more than anything. I want to provide for them and give them anything they want. While my brother is not working due to sickle cell and having to go through surgery, I want to make a way to ensure he has everything he needs in life. I’m scared for him during this COVID season. My biggest dream is to provide for my family. Thank you for making the process that much easier. I will use this money to help pay for my books and class tuition. The rest will be spent on furthering my education.

LaTasha Parks – Computer Networking

My name is LaTasha Parks and I am honored to have been selected as a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship c/o HCC Foundation. Thank you for your generosity, which has allowed me to continue my career a network engineer in the Information Technology Department at Houston Community College.

I am an information technology student with a concentration in cybersecurity, as I am moving forward with completed my education at Houston Community College. I plan to attend a four-year university to continue pursuing a career as a network engineer. After graduation, I will seek employment in the field of computer technology with the hopes of inspiring other students to achieve higher education.

The financial generosity of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has allowed me to be one step closer to my goal and has inspired me to help others in the community. My family and I are very thankful for receiving your thoughtful and generous gift.

Olivia Marin – Automotive Technology

 want to express my gratitude for considering and selecting me as a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am honored that you found me worthy of your esteemed scholarship. Thank you for your generosity and financial support towards my higher education.

At present, I am in my second year of study at Houston Community College - Automotive Technology Training Center. My dedication and passion for an automotive technology degree has allowed me to achieve a grade point average of a 4.0 along with being placed on the dean’s academic list twice.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I am currently involved in the Houston Community College Car Club. I was raised by a single mother. She worked as much as she could to make ends meet and to provide for my brother and I as best as she could. Now as an adult, I have committed to do my part and do all that I can to attend college while working as well. It is not easy at all, but I will finish this.

My goal is to set the standard for the generation ahead of me in my family by showing them my accomplishments of education and success. I have chosen the degree of automotive technology because I have always had a passion for it since I was a child. After obtaining my degree I plan to establish a woman-owned franchise of automotive services for customers. Due to the COVID situation, now more than ever I am filled with deep gratitude for this gesture of generosity. Please know that it will be invested accordingly.

Carl Brown – Automotive Technology

Thank you for the opportunity to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I was more than ecstatic to hear the news that I was selected for the amazing scholarship. My name is Carl D Brown Jr. and I was born in Little Rock, Arkansas. I am currently in school to further myself in the automotive / auto body industry. Starting from the age of 3 I’ve been in love with sports cars, specifically the Corvette being my favorite. In the near future I will be in pursuit of my AAS in Automotive Technology while further down the road I plan to sharpen my skills and open up my own custom auto shop.

This opportunity comes in abundance to me since I’m a full-time student, as well a full-time father of five amazing boys. The scholarship will be applied directly to my tuition and books for the fall semester which more than overwhelms me with joy, and I am greatly appreciative. Once again I would like to thank the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship program for this wonderful gesture of kindness.

Christian Gariet – Automotive Technology

I am Christian Gariet, a former student at Houston Community College attending the automotive program. I want to thank the Foundation Scholarship for granting me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I really enjoy cars, both driving and doing maintenance on them as well as researching how they function.

My educational passion is learning more about vehicles and how each and every mechanism works. My short-term goal in my career as an auto technician is to master the basics of this program and doing things the correct way. My long-term goal is to someday become a master auto technician at a well-known dealership. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals by providing me help with the expenses of purchasing invaluable tools. They get pretty pricey in this industry, but thanks to the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship I have all that covered.

I am grateful that this foundation was so generous to pick me of all people to help me pursue my goals; without them I don’t think I would be as motivated as I am now. My family can’t thank you enough for giving me this amazing opportunity most people don’t get. My family sees this as a gift from God for all the hard work that I have done to get in the position I am in today. Thank you very much for this scholarship. This means so much to me and I will not take this opportunity for granted.

Perla Lais – Cybersecurity

First, I’d like to thank you for this opportunity to be one of the recipients of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Perla Lais, I am of Mexican descent and the first person to go to college in my family. I am currently studying computer networking with a specialization in cybersecurity.

My passion for technology began when I was young, and my mother gifted me my first iPod Touch (first generation). The idea of how versatile a device could be sparked my interest in technology. Throughout the years, technology has constantly improved and having a career in this field will allow me to participate and enhance my understanding of technology advancements. I would like to graduate with my associate degree and start a career in the IT or cybersecurity field,

This scholarship is important to my family and I because it is a step forward in my education. When I first applied to college, I had to navigate through the application process and filing for FAFSA (financial aid) on my own, so having this scholarship means it is a weight off my shoulders and my family’s because we won’t have to worry about paying for tuition and books. We are grateful for the generosity of PepsiCo and its donors for contributing to my education through this scholarship.

Christopher Newkirk – Cybersecurity

I would like to thank you for awarding me this scholarship which will be vital in helping me achieve my educational goals. From the bottom of my heart, thank you! I have a diverse background which includes 11 years in the United States Army as a combat medic and two tours in Iraq (2004-05 and 2009-10).

Currently I work in the service industry as a bartender, a job that allows me to interact with the people of my community and have the flexible schedule I need to pursue my cybersecurity degree. I am also a happily married father of three beautiful children: Brooklyn, 7-year-old girl, London, 3-year-old boy, and Cairo, 7-month-old boy. I am a 36-year-old former business major, and I am truly optimistic about my future, both short- and long-term.

Upon completing my associate program at Houston Community College, I will transfer to the University of Houston in the spring of 2022. Upon graduation with my bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems, I will join the workforce as a cybersecurity analyst/engineer. Within the next ten years I would like to obtain my law degree and become a cybersecurity lawyer.

The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship is not only key in my pursuit of a college education, but also in showing my children the importance of education and how it can positively affect the future of our family for generations to come. African-American families and other families of color for years were denied the right to pursue educational goals in institutions of higher learning. To know there is a scholarship foundation dedicated to the uplifting of minorities in this nation is truly a sign of changing times, and I could not be more grateful. Once again, thank you for awarding me with this fantastic opportunity. It certainly is not taken for granted.

Tosin Olaniyi -- Cybersecurity

I was happy to receive the news that I am a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am writing to thank you for your generous financial support towards my higher education. I plan to break into information technology by taking continuing education courses.

I am now studying cybersecurity and working to obtain a certification for my career. I plan to take more certification courses in spring and fall 2022 to re-enter the workforce. Upon completion of all the courses, I will seek employment as a security analyst, risk analyst and cybersecurity analyst. I plan to pursue a two-year degree in the cybersecurity program at HCC after obtaining employment.

I will be able to focus on my education and do well in my classes. Again, I appreciate your generosity in making my education goals a reality. I am so thankful to PepsiCo for this amazing opportunity to give my life a new start.

Brandon Danini – Automotive Technology

My name is Elijah Zayne Guzman and I started this fall at Houston Community College. My experience at a HVAC manufacturing company has motivated me to pursue a degree in logistics and supply chain management.

The educational goals I have for myself are to receive my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in logistics and supply chain management with a minor in business management. Growing up and even today, I know how it feels to not have the support you need. I suffer from bipolar disorder and depression, so being in college and learning how to think strategically and to analyze business problems has and is helping me mentally.

These goals I have for myself are not only for me, but they are for my family and the next generation of children/young adults that will need the guidance to get through school and pursue a career in logistics. This program has given me the opportunity to be creative and think more as a logistician even without having the degree. This scholarship and the HCC program I have chosen will help me reach my goals, and I appreciate your generosity to help me pursue all my goals.

Erik Gonzalez – Automotive Technology

Thank you for donating money to support my education at Houston Community College by gifting me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am grateful for this opportunity as it will greatly impact my future education and career in the field of mechanics.

I am a first-generation student with a disability who is trying to improve my life to become someone in life. I am currently acquiring my associate degree so that I can be certified to work as an auto technician. I am very passionate about learning about vehicles, machines, and computers; this passion has always been in my life since I was a small child.

In the near future, I desire to become a mechanical engineer with a focus on vehicle construction and improvements. Your scholarship will be a step forward towards reaching my long-term goal. Therefore, I am very thankful for your generous donation on supporting my current/future education. It will also help me become a role model to my future sons and daughters, and an example to follow in my family. I cannot thank you enough. I wish the best to your company, PepsiCo, and nothing but success!

Esteban Soto – Automobile Technology

I would like to thank you for awarding me with the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Esteban Soto and I’ve always had a love for cars since I was just a kid. My dad working in a body repair shop next to our house just made me love it much more because I could always see the different types of cars that were brought in.

I say this because it’s one of the main reasons I’m going to college for auto body collision repair. I want to learn a lot more than I know now about cars and I want to learn different areas so I can go out into the real world and find a job in almost any area of collision repair. My short-term goals are to go to college, work, save money, and earn my certificate in collision repair.

As for my long-term goals, I want to graduate from HCC, work at a body repair shop either as an estimator or a collision repairer, gain experience, and hopefully open up my own shop. I also want to help other people with estimates/repairs on their cars on my own time. This scholarship will be beneficial for me since it would help to pay for my education. I could also use the money I saved to pay for tools, which are not the cheapest.

I appreciate this scholarship very much and it helps since I don’t have to pay for my tuition out-of-pocket which is good for both me and my parents. Any help that I have received and will receive in the future is very good and will allow me to finish college, making me the first person in my household to have done so!

Xochitl Reyes – Video Graphics/Visual Effects

My name is Xochitl Reyes, and I am a first-year student at Houston Community College. I am passionate about art and learning more about opportunities in this creative field. I have decided to pursue an associate degree in the video graphics and visual effects program at HCC.

Receiving this scholarship is significant to me because it provides me with a financial opportunity to further my education. It also helps me to reach my goal in becoming a successful Latina animator, graphic designer, illustrator and artist. The Uplift Scholarship gives me confidence to pursue something that I may not have been able to do otherwise and offers motivation for me to graduate and continue on to a four-year university.

I hope to set an example for my family and pave a way for a better future. Thank you for the opportunity to do so. I appreciate PepsiCo’s generosity in aiding me with the funds I need to keep moving forward toward achieving my goals in the creative arts.

Hector Alvarado – Automotive Technology

Thank you PepsiCo for the scholarship and the help you are providing me. I’m from Houston, Texas. I'm currently attending the collision repair course at HCC, and I hope to one day make a career in this industry.

This scholarship will definitely help a lot in paying for some of my classes that I otherwise would have struggled to afford. I appreciate the help and generosity.

This is taking me one step closer to my goal of finishing the course and getting my certificate in collision repair. It’ll help my family and I in the future, and my upcoming career.

Isaiah Walker – Automotive Technology

Thank you for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. It means so much I am honored to receive it. I am a recent high school graduate, I'm 19 years old and I have a passion for cars. I wish to further my education and learn even more about cars and get a hands-on experience.

My short-term goals are to do exceptionally well in school and learn more about cars that I didn’t know before. My long-term goals are to finish all my courses that I need to take and to get a degree in engineering.

I plan to find a good job in the automotive industry, making good pay and then taking a leap of faith by opening my own tuning shop and hiring people like me are eager to learn and build cars. We will all have a successful career building and tuning cars.

This scholarship will me help me because before receiving it I didn’t have the funds to attend school. This has been nothing short of a miracle, and the automotive program is perfect for me because I love cars and it will allow me to pursue my passion for cars.

Jacobe Cerf – Automotive Technology

Hello, my name is Jacobe Cerf. I want to thank you for allowing me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am the only child in a single-parent household. I graduated high school in June 2021 and decided to follow my passion of working on cars and learning how they work.

I plan to work for a big-name brand like Chevy or owning my car shop where my focus would be on maintenance of cars and trucks. This scholarship will help me greatly because I can then pay for anything from tools to books or any required items. This means a lot to me because paying for tools and books from one check is hard to do after bills are paid. Thank you for your generosity.

Jonathan Lopez – Automotive Technology

Words can't express how thankful I am for receiving the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My name is Jonathan Lopez and I lived in Alvin for as long as I can remember. I come from a Hispanic household and like to work on vehicles since I was little. Some of my short-term goals are to learn more about automobiles so I can fix all my family's car problems.

I want to help those in need with simple stuff like oil changes, changing filters and cleaning throttles without them breaking the bank going to a dealership or independent shop. I plan to get experience with different makes and models so I can have a better understanding of what's to come.

My long term goals are to own my own business/shop, and have it produce income for me. Eventually I would like to go back to school and study auto body so I can buy my dream cars salvaged! Seems crazy to some but that’s the only way I'm going to get my hands on some of these vehicles, for they go for a premium now which is fine with me. I was taught that if you want something you better go an earn it.

Again, words cannot express how grateful I am for your generosity. This will help me with my goals tremendously, for life hasn’t been exactly smooth sailing for me. I know I have no right to say it for there are many people who have it worse than me.

Two weeks before the fall semester I was in a car accident. My vehicle was totaled, and I was stressed out trying to figure out how I was going to make it to school. Lucky for me my hobby saved me for I had bought a Chevy Colorado to fix up and sell. It was by no means ready to drive on the road, but I had to make it happen. My project just became my mode of transportation. If it weren’t for my previous classes I would have been a fish out of water but it all clicked to me while I was fixing the Colorado.

I can't thank you enough for this will help tremendously for I am a broke college student trying to fix my old truck, go to work and to school. It gets stressful but I feel a lot of stress leaving me because of you. Thank you.

Jorge Munoz – Graphic Design

I am honored to be selected by the PepsiCo Uplift scholarship. My name is Jorge Munoz, I am a 26 year old student with a strong passion for computers. Growing up I was always fascinated by anything relating to technology. I spend a lot of my time outside of school working on computers or improving my graphic design skills.

I am currently pursuing a degree that will get me one step closer to doing what I love for a living. My whole life I have grown up in a low-income household, so I've always had to work extra hard to afford my tuition. Your generosity will enable me to continue my education and will motivate me to surpass my limits as a student.

By awarding me with this scholarship you have lightened my financial burden, which will allow me to focus more on my education. I am grateful and honored to be a part of such a special program.

Lance Lindley – Auto Body and Collision Repair

I'm writing to thank you sincerely for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. After leaving my role at the sheriff's office here in Houston, I struggled with finding a second career. I searched deep to find my calling and found the Auto Body and Collision Repair program at Houston Community College. I knew it was the program for me and am truly honored to have your support.

With this scholarship, I will be able to take my passion for auto body work and turn it into something other than just a hobby. Coming from a career in service, it is extremely important to me to be able to use my talents to help others and this scholarship will give me that opportunity.

My goal is to provide not only auto body service to paying customers but to help those with financial hardships (the elderly and single parents) by donating a portion of my time to doing their auto body repairs. With this scholarship, I will be able to both fulfill my goals and pay it forward. Thanks again for giving me this opportunity. I genuinely appreciate your support.

Nathan Casas – Automotive Technology

 would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your kindness in funding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am very honored to be the recipient of this award. I am currently enrolled at HCC taking classes as a full-time student in the automotive program. My short-term goal is getting my certificate as an automotive technician. My long-term goal is to become a general manager or Audi Master Tech.

Receiving this scholarship motivates me to give 110 percent in class and complete my certification. This scholarship helps me go a step forward in reaching my goal by being able to purchase tools that will be needed throughout the course and my career path.

My family and I are really thankful for your generosity of giving me this chance to receive this scholarship. It means so much to my family and I because we are struggling financially, and this scholarship takes some relieve off our backs because of you. I thank you for your willingness and kindness once again to help me achieve my goals.

Ronald Henley – Automotive Technology

First, I want to say thank you for awarding me with this scholarship. I am truly honored and in appreciation of your generosity. This scholarship will help me enormously in acquiring some of the necessary tools and books needed for my heavy diesel mechanic classes. I just decided to attend college in August. I can say that not too many 52-year old’s go back to school, especially those who dropped out of school at the age of 10.

I had a difficult life growing up. I had to get a job by the time I turned 10 to help pay the bills. School was not for me, not because I did not want to go but because I had to work and help my mother. Today, I stand proud to say that I took that step and got my GED and now I am attending Houston Community College for my certification as a heavy vehicle and diesel mechanic.

I have many goals in life, but one that I see is attainable is having a heavy diesel mechanic shop. I want to be able to work on 18-wheelers, farming equipment, construction equipment, and any heavy diesel engines. Houston Community College Heavy Diesel Mechanical Program is the best. My favorite part of the program is the labs, where we get to work with our hands. The hands-on portion of the program not only gives me the experience I want and need, but it also allows me to put my textbook knowledge to the test.

Once again, I want to thank you for this opportunity you have provided me. I have five boys who are all adults. They are proud of me for going back to school. Now, they also want to attend college and earn a degree. I have encouraged them and told them that there are many wonderful programs and scholarships such as this one that can help them. Thank you again for this scholarship. It will help me get to the next level in this program.

Ryan M. Clarke – Digital Communication

Hello, my name is Ryan Clarke. I would like to first thank PepsiCo and the HCC Foundation for your generosity of providing this PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship for Black and Hispanic students facing educational inequalities. This scholarship means everything to me!

It’s a great opportunity to help me further my education and improve the quality of my life. I now reside in Houston, but I’m originally from New Jersey. I was raised in Essex County, on the border of Newark and East Orange. I’ve always believed in furthering my education to improve the quality of my life. I started off studying business and now I’m furthering my education in the digital communication field to learn graphic art and web designing.

I’ve always wanted to be in business for myself since a teenager and with technology and the internet being at the forefront of business commerce, I’ve decided to take digital communication courses to maximize my future business ventures. I write and record music, I also plan to start a fashion clothing line and sell all my goods and services on an online platform. This will maximize profits and make it convenient for consumers anywhere in the world to purchase.

Learning graphic and web designing can enable me to freelance and profit in the digital communication market with the goal of starting my own business. I just want to thank Pepsi Co and the HCC Foundation for such a generous, empathetic and beneficial scholarship. These types of scholarships Uplift and motivate students such as me giving us hope, inspiration and most of all, opportunity. I’m so excited to be one of the students chosen to receive this beautiful scholarship. Thank you so much again PepsiCo and HCC Foundation. Your generous scholarship donation is appreciated.

Taylor C. Maxie Jr. – Computer Systems Networking

Thank you so much for selecting me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am very humbled by your generosity. I am a 42-year-old computer science/information technology student. The bulk of my professional background is in the nonprofit sector. For six years, I worked for an organization that provides mentoring and post-release services to high-risk youth and young adults transitioning out of gang culture, and/or incarceration.

I made the decision to transition into the technology field to create better opportunities for myself and my family. A couple of my short-term goals are to complete my Associate of Applied Science degree and acquire the CompTIA A+ certification. These two achievements will open doors that are currently closed in terms of professional opportunities. Within a year’s time of work experience as an IT support analyst, I plan to go for CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications.

These accomplishments will empower me to continue performing youth and community work without having to depend on it for survival. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship will be a tremendous help to this process. It will allow me to purchase technical equipment that will make the experience with my computer lab assignments a much smoother process.

The scholarship will also cover the costs of CompTIA certification exam vouchers. The computer science program at Houston Community College has been instrumental in helping me blaze a trail of success for this next chapter of my life. Every day that I have been in this program has been a blessing. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship allows me to invest in my future, without compromising any of my family’s immediate needs. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity.

Denzel Wilson – Artificial Intelligence

I am honored to be awarded the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. As a nontraditional student who has worked hard to earn a good GPA in my first year back in school, it brings me great joy to have that effort recognized. Upon completion of my artificial intelligence associate degree, I wish to transfer to a four-year university to focus on a degree in cognitive science and computer science.

HCC’s implementation of the AI degree plan has changed my life in many ways. The program has inspired me to pursue my dream of creating brain machine interfaces that can help individuals who have brain and spinal cord injuries. The cutting-edge information and resources that are provided to us at HCC help students understand the complexities of machine learning and robotics, and how they affect our world.

This scholarship provides a financial security blanket that is much needed in hard times amidst a pandemic. My family and I would like to thank the donor, the PepsiCo Foundation, and the HCC Foundation for providing me with this great opportunity.

Christopher Newkirk – Computer System Networking

From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank you for awarding me this scholarship which will be vital in helping me achieve my educational goals. I have a diverse background which includes 11 years in the United States Army as a combat medic and two tours in Iraq. Currently I work as a bartender, which allows me to interact with the people of my community and have the flexible schedule I need to pursue my cybersecurity degree. I am also a happily married father of three beautiful children.

As a 36-year-old former business major, I am truly optimistic about my future. Upon completing my associate program at Houston Community College, I will transfer to the University of Houston in spring of 2022 to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems, and hope to become a cybersecurity analyst/engineer. Within the next 10 years I would like to obtain my law degree and become a cybersecurity lawyer. The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship is not only key in my pursuit of a college education, but also in showing my children the importance of education and how it can positively affect the future of our family for generations to come.

African-American families and other families of color for years were denied the right to pursue educational goals in institutions of higher learning. To know there is a scholarship foundation dedicated to the uplifting of minorities in this nation is truly a sign of changing times, and I could not be more grateful. Once again, thank you for awarding me with this fantastic opportunity. It certainly is not taken for granted.

Adonis Fitwi – Computer Programming

I came to America in 2013 and it was a stark contrast to my country of Ethiopia. The possibilities and opportunities are boundless and if I’m willing to put in the work, I would be able to achieve whatever I wanted. The thing I have wanted to do the most since I was little was to help as many people as I can. I had seen suffering around me back in Ethiopia and how much people barely were able to make ends meet. It made me sad that I didn’t have the ability to help them out in that situation. My educational goal is to complete my associate degree in computer programing and cybersecurity, then transfer to a college or university to get my bachelor’s degree. This PepsiCo Scholarship will help me cover the rest of the fees for attending HCC. I am so grateful that I didn’t need to have my parents pay for my attendance. I am beyond grateful for you allowing me to be able to achieve my goals, and I hope one day I am in a position where I can help as many people as you have.

Arath D. Najera – Automotive Technology

I appreciate the opportunity to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. Life hasn’t always exactly been easy for me and getting through school while working has been a struggle, but with this scholarship a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Now I can get much closer to achieving my dreams and financially provide for my mom who has been my biggest supporter all along. I come from a humble family with low income.

I was born and raised in Houston and graduated with honors from Heights High School in 2019. My dream is to have a mechanic shop and learn more technical skills in areas such as diesel and foreign automobiles. I also want to broaden my knowledge of sports cars and luxury vehicles. My family has been struggling financially since my father left. I have been the man of the house and took on the role of taking care of my mother. This scholarship reminds me that I can help my mom and make her proud of me. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Conniel Lloyd – Auto Body/Collision Repair

I’m very blessed and thankful to be a recipient of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I’m a graduate of La Porte High School and continued my education at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M as a business major. My biggest support system was my older cousin who lived with me and my mother. As a first-generation American and the oldest of three boys, this is my opportunity to live the American Dream.

My parents are immigrants from the Caribbean. I quickly learned a lot being on my own, in a different world, meeting other young entrepreneurial minded individuals. Things didn’t go so much as planned but we had the opportunity to open a family owned bar and grill in Missouri, which was one of the most exciting times of my life. Our plans were cut short when my grandmother passed away. My family and I ended up calling it quits, packing up and returning to Houston. I’ve always wanted to gain the knowledge to run my own shop/garage. Receiving this scholarship means so much to me and my family.

Demetrio Torrez – Computer Programming

I would like to thank the donor of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship for giving me the opportunity to continue my education in the U.S. I came from El Salvador three years ago, not knowing much English, but HCC classes have gotten me ready to be a part of the continuing education program. In El Salvador I was a science and computer engineer; I graduated nine years ago. This is one of the reasons why I choose to pursue a career in information technology.

My short-goal is to obtain my certifications in CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+. These certifications will allow me to get a better job in a field I enjoy working in, and it will also provide for my family. The long-term goal is to have a master’s degree in networking and a doctorate degree in cloud security. This scholarship will allow me to be a step closer to my goals in life. This means a lot to me, my family and my wife because we have a little boy on the way, and we want to provide a better future for him. 

Arturo Lopez, Jr. – Commercial Truck Driving

I am thankful for being selected to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I grew up in a low-income, single-parent household with an undocumented mother and a family of six. When I was 19 years old, I was arrested and was sent to prison, and was released in 2015. Coming out of prison at the age of 32 was a very hard transition, but luckily I have my fiancé there to support me and help get me back into the workforce. No one in my family has pursued a high-skill, high-growth job opportunity, either because it’s too much money, or it’s too hard to attain.

Now I will be the first in my family to pursue a workforce career that will lead me to a better employment opportunity. I know that without this scholarship, I would have been unable to do so. I am confident that my success in this program will help keep me out of trouble, and provide me the ability to provide for my family as well as set an example for those that come behind me who were in situations like me.

Aderemi Adegboyega – Computer Systems Networking

I am very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as one of the recipients of your PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a computer systems and networking major specializing in cybersecurity. I plan to pursue a career in cybersecurity upon graduating from Houston Community College. I have only 12 hours left and plan to graduate in fall 2021. I have also been taking some of my certification examinations, so I am one step closer to that goal.

The PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship has lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on the more important aspects of my education. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as your company has helped me.

Derrick George – Digital Gaming and Simulation

Thank you, PepsiCo for giving me the opportunity to be able to go to school again. This means so much to me and shows me that big corporations do care. I am studying graphic design and working toward a digital gaming & simulation degree. I will graduate in 2023 and hopefully be able to transfer to UT to be able to get a bachelor’s in the graphic design field.

As a long-term goal, I would like to own my own gaming studio and create my own game with its own unique style of play and challenge. I'm so thankful that I finally found a school that offers exactly what I'm looking for in the gaming industry. This scholarship means the world to my mom because now her son can go to school without worrying about having to pay for classes or take out loans and me having to work more hours while attending school. Now I can just focus on my classes and learn in peace.

Alex Rodriguez – Computer System Networking

Thanks to the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship, I can worry less about paying to learn and pay more attention to getting my work done in school. This has truly been an honor to receive this scholarship. After graduating from high school, I thought that I could accomplish more if I went to college. I’m the first one in my family to make it to college and I am ready to make my family proud.

My goals are to make it through college and find the perfect job, and to have a long and happy life. This scholarship will surely help me with my journey through college, as it will give me the motivation to prove that I can work hard and accomplish anything. Thank you so much for the opportunity to do my best in school. This will for sure be an exciting year for me and I have you to thank.

Brandon Danini – Automotive Technology

Thank you so much for selecting me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am 18 years of age and Hispanic. I live with my mother and I work at Office Depot. I clock in for about 33 hours a week and I do my very best to try and help my mom with anything I can as far as bills, groceries. etc. Becoming a mechanic has been my lifetime goal, and to own an auto body shop and help people the right way.

The scholarship and classes I choose will not only teach me, but they will guide my future and open many opportunities for me, and it's only the beginning. I thank you for your generosity. My family and I gladly thank you for giving me this opportunity, and it means everything to my mother especially. You have truly made my dreams become reality.

Booker T. Dickerson – Heavy Truck, Diesel, and Industrial Technology

Thank you for this this PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship which will help me financially during this pandemic and times of uncertainty. I started working on cars at the age of 14 and I love repairing vehicles. There is a great demand for auto technicians like me.

My goal is to become a master certified technician and one day own my own shop. I am taking these automotive courses so I can be well-educated in fixing high-technology automobiles. Thank you for the donation and your willingness to help me obtain my goals. I really appreciate your generosity.

Jamal Brice – Cybersecurity

Thank you for selecting me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I was born and raised in Houston by my mom and my grandmother. I am the only person in my family to complete high school. Education was not rooted in my family, and I wanted to break the cycle. The importance of education for me and the future generation of my family will start today with this scholarship.

My short-term goal is to finish my bachelor’s degree and get certified in information technology. My long-term is to become an author/producer and change the narrative of black culture. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for this opportunity to further my education. School is expensive, especially with me working and trying to pay back taxes on my grandmother's house who recently passed away. I am not able to afford this HCC program on my own. My family will be proud of the educational background I’ve created for myself. One day I hope to start a nonprofit for people who have limited resources.

Jorge Munoz – Computer Programming

I am sincerely honored to be selected to receive a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a 26-year-old student with a strong passion for computers. Growing up I was always fascinated by anything relating to technology. I spend a lot of my time outside of school working on computers or improving my graphic design skills. I am currently pursuing a degree that will get me one step closer to doing what I love for a living.

My whole life I have grown up in a low-income household so I've always had to work extra hard to afford my tuition. Your generosity will enable me to continue my education and will motivate me to surpass my limits as a student. By awarding me with this scholarship you have lightened my financial burden, which will allow me to focus more on my education. I am truly grateful and honored to be a part of such a special program.

Chukwuebuka Onwuzulu – Logistics and Global Supply

Thank you for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship via the HCC Foundation. I am so grateful. As an immigrant to the United States, getting this scholarship to aid my educational pursuit is a dream come true. This past year has been really challenging with the Covid-19 pandemic but with this scholarship I will be able to get my degree in logistics and global supply chain management, which will help me in achieving my dream to be promoted to a supervisory level in my present place of work. I truly appreciate this great gesture.

Cristian Rodriguez – Auto Body/Collision Repair

Thank you for this opportunity to receive a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. My goal is to work in a body collision shop. After getting my certificate at HCC, I plan to get an associate degree in automotive technology and specialize in automotive and body collision repair. This scholarship will help me to reach my goals. I appreciate the help of Felicia Brooks of the HCC Foundation for her kind generosity. With the help of this scholarship my family will be proud of me. I will use this opportunity to continue my studies, and to buy great tools to work on automobiles.

Devin Ligon – Automotive Technician

I am currently studying at HCC to become an automotive tech with the dream of becoming a master technician. Recently I was provided a car for a project and thanks to the professors at school I’ve successfully pulled out the engine and in the process of putting a new one in. It’s rewarding to gain experience and do something I really enjoy doing while making a living and going back to school to finish my chemical engineering degree at Prairie View A&M University.

At the same time, I want to become a master technician and plan to open a repair shop so that I can earn a living and start growing my own business. This scholarship means the world to me. Due to the pandemic, my funds haven’t been the best so this scholarship will take some financial burdens off me and my family. Thank you so much for accepting me.

Eliseo Gonzalez – Computer Systems Networking

On behalf of a grateful new collegiate entering Houston Community College, the experience has been made possible by the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship for the fall 2021 semester. My family is of Latin descent, and we have worked hard in the United States. We are all passionate about higher education, and everyone has supported my academic goals from K-12 and my acceptance into HCC.

I have worked since I was 16 years old, learning skills in addition to my academics. I would like to pursue a career in cybersecurity at HCC to obtain an associate degree and transfer to the university of my choice to complete my bachelor’s degree. My goal is to assist our government and businesses with fraud prevention or any other high-tech cybersecurity issues. I still work in automotive technology, which has assisted our household and myself. Being a distinguished recipient of this scholarship will allow me to reach my academic goals and to help my family.

Ivan Lagunas – Cybersecurity   

Thank you for your generous PepsiCo Scholarship. I was very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as the recipient of your scholarship. I am a cybersecurity major and plan to pursue a career in cybersecurity upon graduating from Houston Community College in fall of 2021 with a cybersecurity degree.

Thanks to you, I am one step closer to that goal. By awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school which is learning. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me.

Ivan Lopez – Digital Gaming and Simulation

I would like to thank you very much for selecting me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship and giving me an opportunity to attend Houston Community College. From elementary through middle school, I was in Alief ISD. In the eighth grade I transferred to Fort Bend ISD and graduated from Hightower High School.

My short-term goals are to graduate from HCC and transfer to the University of Houston and continue learning more about programming video games. My long-term goals are to be able to create my own games and teach others to program games. I think of this scholarship as something that brings me closer to the community. I again would like to thank you for selecting me for this scholarship.

Victor Rodriguez – Artificial Intelligence

I am a student at Houston Community College and originally from the border town of Ciudad Juarez, right across from El Paso. My passion is technology and computers. I am not a fan of computer gaming. I like the aspect of household computing and in an enterprise environment, with computer networks and operating systems. My short-term goals are to graduate with a degree in artificial intelligence at HCC and to one day become a teacher and inspire students to keep learning just like the teachers that inspire me. This scholarship will help me reach my goals in this vast field of cybersecurity. 

I am still thinking this is a dream because I have never won anything like this in my life. My father used to tell me not to leave it to luck. He would say, “You have your health, you got working arms and working legs. Show people how you are a good worker.” My father did not have the option to go to school. Just like my father I want to be a role model for my nieces and nephews.  I want to thank you for your generosity.

Jeff Ogbor – Computer Systems Networking

I want to thank you so much for awarding me a PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. It will help me pay tuition for my classes and help me to reach my goals as an HCC student. My plan for my future is to have a career in cybersecurity. This is a route that I am excited to embrace and ready to learn at HCC so that I can become a cybersecurity professional. This scholarship and the curriculum at HCC will help me reach this goal. While I attend HCC, I am also into fitness and like to work out in my spare time. I also take part in ride bikes downtown because I am very much into city life.

I am 27 years old and was born in Stockholm, Sweden. I am of Nigerian descent, and my family and I moved here from Sweden in 1998. My family is grateful for this scholarship and want to thank you sincerely for your generosity in selecting me as one of the recipients.

Jeremy Sirias – Artificial Intelligence

Thank you for allowing me to receive the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a certified surgical technologist and have been in this field a little over three years. After the third year I realized that the healthcare field was not for me, and it was time for me to follow my passion in technology. Since I was a child, I enjoyed playing with computers and as an adult my hobbies include building gaming computers and crypto mining rigs. I look forward to my career in artificial intelligence. Thank you for helping me make it happen.

Jesus Flores – Computer Systems Networking

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to further my education through the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. The past year has been very challenging financially due to instability of the retail job market. My family and I appreciate not having to incur more debt to pay for classes and textbooks.

As a non-traditional student returning to school many decades after completing high school, it is not always easy to prioritize my education. I look forward to completing my cybersecurity degree soon with the ability to pursue a more stable career.

Marcos S. Abrego – Automotive Technology

I want to thank PepsiCo Uplift for the opportunity to receive these benefits. Lately I have been wondering how I am going to pay for my career in which I have nothing but the willingness to learn. I am 21years old and a resident of the Houston area. I went to school from elementary to high school in the Alief ISD. It wasn't easy getting to this level of education considering the environment around me and other factors that held me back.

My passion has always been to work with cars, and I was always working with them with my uncle Douglas on the weekends. My short-term goals are to obtain a scholarship and to get a car. My long-term goals are to graduate from HCC as a technician, and to also to get a house. This scholarship and the HCC program I have chosen will help me reach my goals. I appreciate PepsiCo Uplift and your generosity. It means a lot to me and my family and I am truly thankful for being chosen for this blessing.

Mauricio Medina – CISCO Certified Network Associate

I want to express my gratitude for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship to help pursue my career. It gives me the opportunity to achieve my certificate and build a better future for myself and my family. I have worked for Community Health Choice a little over five years and have enjoyed every moment. We are a nonprofit organization that assists with medical coverage of Medicaid, CHIP and Marketplace. I have worked in the call center environment for eight years and I’ve gained a lot of experience. This scholarship will help me to gain the knowledge needed to get me where I want to be within the company. Thank you again for the opportunity you have given myself and my family.

Nikita Garcia – Automotive Technology

I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for choosing me for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I’m a proud mother of five and completed a short time in rehab, realizing that I wanted to finish school. Dropping out of school in the eighth grade was not the best time in my life. Having the time to grow and become this strong woman I am today is special, thanks to my husband of six years. He showed me that school was important, and I decided to get my GED and enroll in automotive technology.

Working on vehicles became a passion of mine, seeing my husband working on motorcycles. Opening a shop would be our long-term goal together. This scholarship will help a lot when it comes all my school supplies. During the hard times these past two years, this opportunity is a blessing in so many ways. Investing my time to improve my life, not knowing what I had inside me, is an amazing feeling. This will open more doors for my kids, teaching them that owning your own business is far better than working for someone else, which is not bad either. Showing them that they can make a living doing what you love to do is a unique opportunity. Thank you again for this blessing.

Pedro Matul – Computer Systems Networking

It is an honor to be chosen for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship at HCC for the fall 2021 semester. I am a Cisco student and I am gaining knowledge in network administration. I plan to graduate in fall 2021. I am currently working at a jewelry store as an online sales manager, but I hope soon to be able to enter the IT field and put into practice everything I have learned and be able to contribute to our community. After my graduation I will pursue a career in computer information systems. Thanks to you, I am one step closer to that goal.

By awarding me the PepsiCo Foundation Uplift Scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school, learning. This scholarship allows me to work less hours and focus on my studies and additional educational opportunities. Thank you for your support of HCC students.

Wend-Yaoda Jean Edouard Tarpaga – Computer Programming

I am honored to be one of this year’s recipients of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. Thanks to your donation, I will be able to continue my education at Houston Community College. I am currently a junior with a major in computer programming, applications development, and cloud computing specialization. I have two classes left and I will be graduating in spring 2022. My dedication and passion for computer programming has allowed me to achieve a GPA of 3.25, and I plan to work hard this semester to raise it higher.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I am currently working at Labcorp as an assistant on the overnight shift. I am also applying for internships in computer programming to acquire experience while I am still in school. My plan after graduation is to find employment and to continue my education at the University of Houston. My educational pursuits would be difficult financially this semester without the generous donation of the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. Thank you for enabling me to reach my fullest personal and professional potential.

David Love – Automotive Technology

It is said that when others believe and invest in you, it motivates you to believe and to continue to invest more in yourself. I just want to give my sincere thanks for the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. This gives me more strength and more conviction to keep striving. I’m 46 years old and was born in Galveston. I was raised in a single-parent home and grew up in two different places – the Texas Gulf Coast and the West Coast in South Central Los Angeles. I come from an upbringing where opportunities were few due to the crime and economic disadvantages.

I have had my share of the good and bad since I decided to get my GED and acquire a few vocational certificates. It has given me rebirth and a new outlook about myself and my own potential. There were good people on this journey that helped me get to the next level. They looked beyond my race, my economic and social status, and whatever I’ve done wrong in my lifetime to impart to me their wisdom with love.

The faculty and staff at Houston Community College are among those who looked beyond everything to take me in, and they have continued to help me in building a better life. My long-term goal is to start my own automotive business, specializing in automotive electronics. I want to go beyond just attaining my associate degree and to make my family proud of me. This has encouraged some of my other family members (nephews) to get on the good foot.

Christian Gariet – Automotive Technology

Thank you for awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am a former student at Houston Community College attending the automotive program. I really enjoy cars, both driving and doing maintenance on them. My educational passions are learning more about vehicles and how each mechanism works. My short-term goal in my career as an auto technician is to master the basics of this program and doing things the correct way. My long-term goal is to become a master auto technician at a well-known dealership.

This scholarship will help me achieve my goals by providing financial assistance for tools that can get pricey in this industry, but thanks to the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship I have all that covered. I am very grateful that this foundation was so generous to pick me of all people to help me pursue my goals; without them I don’t think I would be as motivated as I am now. My family can’t thank you enough for providing this amazing opportunity most people don’t get. They see this as a gift from God from all the hard work that I have done to get in the position I am in today. This scholarship means so much to me and I will not take this opportunity for granted.

Nathan Casas – Automotive Technology

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your kindness in awarding me the PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship. I am very honored to be the recipient of this award. I am currently enrolled at HCC taking classes as a full-time student in the automotive program. My short-term goal is getting my certificate as an automotive technician. My long-term goal is to become a general manager or Audi master tech.

Receiving this scholarship motivates me to give 110 percent in class and complete my certification. It also helps me go a step forward to reaching my goal of purchasing tools that will be needed throughout the course and my career path. My family and I are really thankful for your generosity. It means so much because we are struggling financially, and this scholarship just takes some relief off our backs. I thank you for your willingness and kindness to help me achieve my goals.

Chukwuemeka Eleweke – Database Administration

My short-term goal is to be a database administrator, and leaning towards data and cybersecurity in the future. This scholarship program will help me reach my goals financially and I appreciate your generosity. The unique PepsiCo Uplift Scholarship opportunity means a lot to me and my family. Thank you so much.