Once a shy student, Samantha went from being a mentee to a mentor for freshmen students in theater and the recipient of the Vivian “Bish” Edwards Theatre Education Scholarship.
“(Samantha) has really shown her ability to be a great model and to mentor younger students,” said Ms. Juana Rodriguez, Patriot High School theater teacher. “She has really grown due to her participation in theater and going through the entire pathway here at Patriot.”
Samantha’s growth demonstrates how a supportive community and caring staff can foster student success.
The California Educational Theatre Association (CETA) awards the $500 Vivian “Bish” Edwards Scholarship to students who have an interest in pursuing a career in theater education and demonstrate a real commitment to give back through theater. This is the third year in a row that a Patriot High School student has won this scholarship.
“(CETA) saw that I had a passion for theater, a passion for education,” said Samantha. “I hope other people see that I have that passion.”
In the fall, Samantha will attend California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, to pursue a career as an educator at animal sanctuaries or zoos.
“I’ve always loved educating people, and I’ve always loved animals,” Samantha said. “You have to pursue what you’re passionate about because if you don’t, you’re not going to be successful.”
Out of all the submissions, ten finalists are chosen for an interview, and only one of them earns the scholarship. This year, four of the ten finalists were Patriot High students.
“I’ve really seen her grow from someone who perhaps… didn't know if theater was something for them, and is now the president of our theater club, winning scholarships (that will help) with her future,” said Ms. Rodriguez.
“Theater has a wonderful impact because it’s teaching students soft skills: public speaking, confidence, coming out of your shell, and just trying things, being creative,” said Ms. Rodriguez. “It is such a wonderful moment to allow yourself to be creative, to problem solve, and have fun.”
As a freshman, Ms. Rodriguez saw Samantha’s need for guidance and support. She saw something in Samantha and wanted to nurture her innate ability, Ms. Rodriguez said.
Seniors and other theater students supported Samantha and bonded with her. Now, as a senior herself, Samantha offers support to younger peers. She made them feel comfortable, and like they belong, Samantha said.
“Samantha has been very fortunate of having mentors… and she’s learned from them, and she has aspired to be like them. She has decided to pay that forward,” said Ms. Rodriguez.
Samantha serves as the president of Dramatis Personae (Theatre Club), a class representative, and is enrolled in the rigorous Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program.
“All the staff here, and all the students here have helped me decide my path on where I want to go and who I want to be,” said Samantha.
Patriot staff, such as her counselors, teachers, and administrators, all helped her become the person she is today.
“That’s why I love Jurupa Unified, because they have so many opportunities,” said Samantha. “This is home.”
Looking ahead after graduation, Samantha is ready to move hundreds of miles away to Northern California for college. She learned not to be afraid of change, to be confident in herself, and that it’s okay to be unique and different, Samantha said.
“I am really proud of Samantha. She’s really come a long way,” said Ms. Rodriguez. “She is leaving a legacy.”
