Brandon, Recent Graduate
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Bowling Green State University
Tradition’s Arnold Palmer Education Fund
Scholarship Recipient

Dear Desert Scholarship Foundation Members,
Thank you. Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your compassion. Thank you for your kindness.
On December 13th, 2019, I was granted the opportunity to walk across the graduation stage to receive my degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. That moment was the result of years working towards a dream that seemed impossible to reach. Countless late nights, hundreds
of coffee beverages, scores of papers written all came together to build a bridge that would help me reach college graduation. That day is one, if not, the biggest achievement that I have been able to reach.
For the past four years, I have been able tackle what has been the single most rewarding adventure in my life. College. These past four years have been the happiest, saddest, most exciting, and frustrating times of my young life for which I am beyond grateful to have been gifted with the privilege to attend Bowling Green State University in Ohio. From my freshmen year learning how to navigate the chaotic life of a college student to my senior year writing my final report. I cannot express the gratitude I feel towards every single member of the Scholarship Foundation.
The Tradition’s Arnold Palmer Education Fund Scholarship covered the remaining costs of tuition that was not covered by FAFSA, allowing me to focus on my studies without the financial burden on either my family or me. It allowed me to successfully complete three full-time internships which ultimately granted me a full-time position as a Mechanical Engineer right after graduation. Without missing a beat, the Desert Scholarship has bridged the gap between my goals and I from the beginning to even after college.
Nevertheless, as this adventure comes to a close, I plan on moving forward and continuing my studies. With no plans on stopping anytime soon, I have my sight set on obtaining my Engineering in Training License (EIT) to ultimately reach my Professional Engineering License (PE). Soon after, I also plan on attending graduate college to study towards my Master’s in Engineering. Ultimately, I plan on becoming an organization’s Senior Mechanical Engineer where I am able to help solve problems to help move society forward. Lastly, the generosity of the members has inspired me to one day be able to give back to the foundation and allow future students reach their dreams like the scholarship has allowed me.
Once again, Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Sincerely, Brandon