Impact Spotlight: OSU Scholarships

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Media Contact: Mack Burke | Editorial Coordinator | 405-744-5540 | editor@okstate.edu

When you donate to scholarships, you equip students with the financial and academic support so that they can pursue their orange passion.

Your support offers life-changing experiences to help students be successful at OSU and beyond.

Amanda Bolinger, Senior

Hometown: Beaver, Oklahoma

Major: Animal Science; Pre-Veterinary

Oklahoma State Scholar Society Fellow

Donald and Cathey Humphreys Study Abroad Endowed Scholarship

What impact have the scholarships made during your time in college?

The biggest impact, in addition to the incredible financial peace, is that the scholarships have given me connections I've been able to forge. The Oklahoma State Scholars Society has provided opportunities to connect with faculty and students across campus in a unique way. My peers are some of the brightest, most driven individuals I've ever met. Some of them have even become some of my closest friends. I really value these connections.

What was your reaction when you learned you’d be receiving the scholarships?

I'm really not a crier, so when I was staring at my phone and sobbing, my tennis teammates and coach were very concerned. We were at the regional meet when I was sent a video of President and Ann Hargis congratulating me on receiving the OSSS award. I’ll never forget the incredible relief that came from knowing I could afford college. Not only that, but I was able to attend my dream school.

What would you say to the donors who made your scholarships possible?

I would give them a deep, heartfelt thank you. The OSSS scholarship has changed my life. I've made lifelong connections through this scholarship, I will graduate with my bachelor's degree debt-free, and I am equipped to go on and pursue my dream of becoming an exceptional Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

Shamara Arias, Senior

Hometown: Tulsa

Major: Economics and Spanish

Parman Foundation Scholarship

Donald and Cathey Humphreys Study Abroad Endowed Scholarship

Dutreau Scholarship Fund

Hilde Wohlert Memorial Endowed Award

How have the scholarships transformed your OSU experience?

The scholarships have given me access to many opportunities. I’ve been able to join the LASSO Center as an economics SI leader and the Mr./Miss Hispanic Latinx Scholarship Pageant committee as a pageant coach and professional chair. These scholarships have also given me the privilege of studying abroad in Spain at the University of Valencia for the fall semester of 2021. This trip has allowed me to serve as a representative of OSU and learn about a new culture, lifestyle and traditions.

How are your scholarships helping you reach your career goals?

After graduating, I plan to attend graduate school to pursue a master’s in economics in hopes of becoming a financial advisor for a tech company. The scholarships I’ve received have allowed me to gain new experiences and skills, which will ultimately help me reach my professional goals.

How would you express your gratitude to your scholarship donors?

I would like to say thank you to all the donors who have contributed to my education. Your contributions have allowed me to accomplish so much throughout my college journey. Most importantly, your help is the reason I can proudly say that I’ll be the first in my family to graduate from college in the Spring 2022. Once again, thank you very much. God bless you and your families.

Alexia Clardy, Freshman

Hometown: Idabel, Oklahoma

Major: Kinesiology

Bird Family Endowed Scholarship

Dale and Elizabeth Miller Endowed Scholarship

Why did you choose Oklahoma State University?

I have always wanted to be an OSU Cowboy and not just a fan! OSU was my first and only choice. My dad and many other family members and friends have gone to Oklahoma State University. Growing up, I have listened to many stories and have seen lifelong friendships that developed here at OSU. I wanted to be a part of the Cowboy family not only because of wanting to follow my family's footsteps, but also I wanted to experience the stories I have grown up listening to.

How did you feel when you learned you would be receiving scholarships?

I was so happy! I felt weight come off my shoulders. I was more relaxed about going to college. I also felt that all my hard work, time and dedication were finally paying off.

How have your scholarships impacted your college experience and future?

My scholarships have given me the opportunity to have a successful future. They have helped me out with my finances and being able to focus on my class material and career goals and not as much about paying for the classes.