The Pathfinder scholarship is an award given to students throughout Palm Beach and Martin County, giving them the opportunity to be recognized for their achievements. There are 18 different categories that students can apply for, which range from art and music (vocal and instrumental), all the way to business and mathematics. Those who earn first place wins $3000, second place wins $2000, and third place wins $1500. This means that each year, over $100,000 is given out in Pathfinder Scholarships under the sponsorship of The Palm Beach Post. The Pathfinder Scholarship includes different rounds of interviews for all applicants, and then schools narrow down each category to one final nominee who represents the school. The next round of interviews will determine the winners throughout Palm Beach County and there will be a ceremony held at The Kravis Center. West Boca’s Pathfinder Nominees for the 18 categories are:
Ava Stone – Academic Excellence
Anabella Cruz – Art
Camila DiConza – Business
Maria Vasquez – Career and Technical Education
Sophia Rose – Communications
Sienna Watts – Community Involvement
Cameron Findley – Computer Engineering and Technology
David Hain – Forensics/Speech
Dennis Crowley – History/Political Science
Sophia Zmed – Literature
Sydney Ali – Mathematics
Elizabeth Hopkins – Music/Instrumental
Shane Fitzgerald – Music/Vocal
Jordyn Stein – Reach for Excellence
Samantha Frohman – Science
Luke Mason – Sports
Eytan Whiting – Theater Arts
Ariana Cruz – World Language
Elizabeth Hopkins, our West Boca Pathfinder nominee for the Music/Instrumental category, mentions that she is “extremely grateful for this opportunity to represent the impact that the performing arts academy has had.” Elizabeth noted that this scholarship gives students an “incredible chance to demonstrate their qualities and talents alongside gaining interview experience”, and she encourages others to look into Pathfinders and go for it. Dr. Keller, the college counselor here at West Boca, mentions that “You never know what will happen unless you try. For underclassmen, the Pathfinder scholarship is designed to highlight what you’re good at. Lean into the things you are interested in, and you’ll be creating a strong resume without even knowing it.” Congratulations to all students who have been nominated, and we wish you the best of luck!
