Scholarships Help to Fulfill Dreams

(RTC Foundation Awards Record Number of Scholarships for Fall Quarter)

September 22, 2009 - With the downturn in the economy and high unemployment, people are turning to Renton Technical College to train for a new career in hopes of finding employment in a new field. But for many, finding the means to fund a college education can be difficult and overwhelming. Since 1993, the RTC Foundation has been building scholarship funds to help students stay in school and achieve their academic goals. One of those students is Cynthia Lyle.

Lyle, a single mother with two sons and two grandsons, moved from Michigan two years ago to get a new start. After many dead-end jobs, she decided to train for a career. Because of her background in administrative work and her ability to interact with people, the Administrative Office Management program was a natural fit for her. Lyle applied for and received the Rose Turner Scholarship, which enables her to pay for her books to finish her last quarter at RTC.

"The Renton and surrounding communities play a big part by supporting students," said Lyle. "Without their support, there would be no scholarships, students would fall by the wayside and not be able to complete their program. I am glad the foundation had the faith in me and is helping me work towards my goal."

Land Surveying student, Daryoush Nazari, received the Dave Esler scholarship. After becoming a U.S. citizen in June of 2009, Daryoush has hopes of fulfilling his dream of working with the Department of Natural Resources.

"In order to be competitive, I came to Renton Technical College," said Nazari. "I work part-time for living expenses and this scholarship helped to pay my tuition so I can finish my schooling."

This Fall, the RTC Foundation awarded 16 scholarships totaling $12,600 to students in need of support. To learn more about the RTC Foundation and scholarships, visit www.RTC.edu/Foundation