KIPP Sol alums Laisha Ajtun (right) and George Perez (left)
By Monica Rodriguez
East L.A.: Two Esperanza College Prep graduates and KIPP Sol Academy alums have been awarded $60,000 in scholarships provided by the Dave Goldberg Scholars Program, according to KIPP SoCal Public Schools.
Laisha Ajtun and George Perez, both from East L.A., are part of a group of 15 students selected for the scholarships by the KIPP Foundation. The Foundation considered college-bound candidates from across the country who graduated from a KIPP middle school.
Ajtun plans to attend UC Berkeley and study engineering and public policy. Perez plans to attend Columbia University to study film.
According to a KIPP spokeswoman, each student will receive about $15,000 annually for four years to pay for needs not covered by tuition or college-based financial aid.
In addition, the students will work with a mentor who will provide guidance and support throughout college and assistance in applying for summer internships and job opportunities.