Juli Chue
Dental student Juli Chue chose the University of Washington for her dental school education not only for its great reputation but also for its proximity to her family. At age two she and her family emigrated from Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime and have lived in Washington state ever since. "I decided to attend the UW because my family lives in the Seattle-Tacoma area, and I wanted to be close to my family." On receiving the Dental Alumni Association Student Scholarship, she noted "It's a great feeling to know that there are so many people and organizations that care and are contributing to my endeavors toward my career and educational goals. It definitely gives me the desire to give back to the school and community once I have established myself in my career."

Mercedes Mijares
Mercedes Mijares was born in Acupulco, Mexico, and moved to Alaska 17 years ago. Her dream was to attend college, but for years it was beyond her financial means. By 1996 Mercedes had moved to Seattle, attended Green River Community College and received an Associates degree in computer science with high honors. But Mercedes wanted to continue her education. Even though she was accepted by several universities, only the UW offered the economic hardship scholarships that could make a difference. A "super-excited" Mercedes was accepted at the College of Forest Resources, declared a new major in ESRM, and found out that she had received a full scholarship. "I am so thankful for the help, without it I wouldn't be here, I couldn't have continued my education or achieve my dreams."

Courtney Thompson
Courtney Thompson (BA,'07) led the Huskies to their first-ever NCAA volleyball championship last year. Off the court, Thompson excelled as well-she was the 2003 Scholar-Athlete of the Year and class valedictorian. As a three-year captain at the UW, Thompson leadership extends to the classroom where she was named to the Pac-10 All Academic teams the last two seasons. Thompson stated, "Receiving a scholarship to compete for the University of Washington has provided me with the resources and support necessary for success in academics, athletics, and within the community. It has instilled in me a confidence and mutual commitment between the University and me, which is necessary for the level of success that we have achieved."