Have you ever wondered what effect winning a scholarship has on a young person’s life? It can be life-changing, as Nicole Benthin explains.  

“Almost 22 years ago, I was awarded a $5,000 scholarship from our local Astoria Ford dealership for an essay I wrote,” she recalled.

“This came at a time when I needed it most. Due to unfortunate circumstances, I had moved out of my dad’s house at 17 years old, trying to navigate the world on my own. I knew I wanted to be a nurse. I just wasn’t quite sure how I was going to get there financially. 

“My senior year of high school, I applied for over 100 scholarships. One of the largest was the Ford scholarship, and I was able to get the first two years of higher education tuition covered.

“From there, I went on to graduate school, and received a master’s degree in nursing leadership, and a few years later, completed a second master’s degree to get my nurse practitioner license. My dream was to have my own practice someday. 

“I now own and operate Serenity Med Spa in Astoria. It is a blessing to be able to serve the community I grew up in. I can’t thank Dane Gouge and the people at Astoria Ford enough for believing in me, and honoring me with a scholarship.” 

“I am so thankful for this opportunity that our small town offers,” she added, “and can’t express enough how much this meant to me. It helped make my dreams come true!” (Photo: Nicole Benthin)