And the Winner Is... BAC names its 2020 U.S. Bates Scholarship recipients
Three college-bound students from BAC were awarded US Bates Scholarship awards this year. Each year, BAC awards three scholarships to students whose parents or step-parents are US BAC members. The stipends are $5,000 per year for up to four years—up to $20,000 total.
Following are insights from this year's recipients.
National Merit Scholar
Alexander Schmitt
Attending: Stanford University
Major: Physics
Family/IU Info: Martin Schmitt, Local 1 MD/VA/DC
What does this recognition mean to you?
This scholarship does much more than simply affirm all my accomplishments up to this point in my academic career. It proves to my parents that they have done an incredible job raising me. It proves that my teachers have taught me beyond what was expected and that I can achieve anything I dedicate my time to. Being chosen for such a selective award among some of the most exceptional students in the nation is an unimaginable honor that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
For the next four years, I can seek nearly any opportunity imaginable without concern for any unnecessary financial burden because of this scholarship. It is also an incredible honor to be able to represent both the Union and my family as an example of what can be achieved as a high school student as I continue my education at Stanford University.
What does the union mean to you and your family?
For two decades, my father's Union has provided my family with financial security and a positive outlook on our future. Even during difficult times for the country or my family, I knew that my dad was be able to provide for us. The Union has always been a source of pride for him, as it is essentially a better way of living. The happiness that comes from reliable retirement funds, income and insurance is something every family deserves to experience.
What kind of advice can you offer your peers and younger students?
What I would offer is to never lose sight of your goals. My ultimate goal in life is to become an astronaut and be among the first humans to step on Mars. With every math, science, English and history class, I am motivated by the thought of how that knowledge will help me move closer to that first step. As I seek out internships, I think of what experiences could be applied to life as an astronaut or how the people I meet can help me prepare for that future. When the purpose behind every major decision in your life is a single goal, it seems easy to achieve almost anything.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I'd like to thank the BAC and the National Merit Corporation for this award, as it will most certainly change my life and help me change the world.
National Merit Scholar
Alyssia Carmichael
Attending: John Carroll University
Major: Biochemistry
Family/IU Info: Noah Carmichael, Local 7 OH
What does this recognition mean to you?
Winning this scholarship allowed me to prioritize my educational needs over the financial needs of my family. With the additional money and support, I was able to choose a smaller, more expensive school where I will be able to be more engaged in my learning.
What does the Union mean to you and your family?
To my family, “Union” represents our connection to one another and the idea of backing each other up. For example, my parents have always been very supportive and given guidance during all my endeavors, and the search for the right college and pursuit of scholarships has been no different. I know my family is willing to make sacrifices to support each other and support our “Union.”
What kind of advice can you offer your peers and younger students?
When you start the college search process, I would say to trust your gut. I learned a lot about myself and my priorities when choosing my college. This time of your life is all about figuring yourself out, so don’t be afraid to step back from all the outside voices and listen to what you really want for yourself. And don’t forget: You’re young. You have your whole life to change your mind if need be.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I would like to say thank you for this scholarship, and thank you to my family for allowing me the opportunity to pursue my degree and dreams at a university that best suits me.
National Merit Scholar
Adam Frederick
Attending: The Ohio State University – Columbus
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Parent/IU Info: David Frederick, Local 46 OH
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is a great honor to be awarded this scholarship. It means a lot to me because it will certainly help me continue my education and eventually find a career that I will enjoy.
What does the Union mean to you and your family?
To me and my family, "Union" is about being a part of something that is more than just yourself. It's about being a part of and positively contributing to a group or a family of people.
What kind of advice can you offer your peers and younger students?
Never be afraid to try new things or meet new people.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
Thank you so much to BAC for awarding me this scholarship. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity.