Every year, the Mono Lake Committee awards two $1,000 scholarships to Mono County high school seniors. As part of the application process, we ask seniors to spend time on the shore of Mono Lake, take in their experience, and write about why places like this matter.
This year, of the many thoughtful and reflective essays we read, two stood out to us. We are pleased to announce this year’s scholarship recipients—Solomon McFarland from Lee Vining High School and Bryan Ramirez Rodriguez from Mammoth High School.
Solomon reflected on his memories of Mono Lake from growing up near the lake in Lee Vining. He wrote, “I remember all of the memories that I have made as I cut through the glassy surface of this enormous lake in a canoe. I have explored the tufa and gone on various adventures with my family. At this moment in time, I am on no adventure; I am simply sitting here overlooking the still water as the sun falls behind me.” Solomon plans to attend Cuesta College in the fall to study music and welding. You can read the rest of Solomon’s essay here.
Bryan wrote about his personal connection to Mono Lake and the peace it brought to his life. He wrote, “The breeze hits my face gently, cool and steady, and I feel a quiet calm that’s hard to find. Mono Lake makes me feel at peace in a way that I’ve been needing. Life can get overwhelming, busy, and loud. But out here, it’s just me, the birds, and the breeze.” Bryan plans to attend Long Beach City College in the fall to pursue a career as an electrician. You can read the rest of Bryan’s essay here.
We are grateful for all the students who applied and dedicated time to reflect on what Mono Lake means to them, and we wish them luck in their next chapter of life!
Mono County resident high school seniors who have firm plans to attend college or other further education within a year of graduation qualify for the Mono Lake Committee Scholarship. If you are interested in learning more about the scholarship program or would like to donate to the fund, please contact me by email or at (760) 647-6595 x135.
Top photo by Elin Ljung.