Our OCWS scholarships make a big impact to the students they support. Below is a thank you letter from Bao Nguyen of Orange Coast College, who is studying Food and Beverage Management.
The reason why I am writing you this letter is to let you know that I have received a scholarship award from you on behalf of Orange County Wine Society. I am very honored and appreciative to have been selected for this scholarship. Upon receiving this scholarship, I didn’t forget the fact that I am very lucky to have come across all the great teachers of the food and beverage programs at Orange Coast College who have worked so hard to prepare me for this day. This wine class has opened the door to a whole new world as if it has opened my eyes to another dimension.
I am studying Food and Beverage Management and my future educational goal is to gain my bachelor’s degree for culinary science at the Culinary Institute of America. I would find every opportunity that I can to help contribute the sustainable goal of zero hunger. I wanted to address to you that this scholarship award had gave me an extra boost where I was able to use some of money to help me with my charity project in a small town 45 miles north from Nha Trang, Vietnam. I was able to build a small food cart where I cooked omurice and gave them out to people who are facing food insecurity.
I want to again thank you and Orange County Wine Society for the generosity. I promise to make the most out of the support you have provided me through the scholarship grant. I wish you and your team great health and prosperity.
Bao Nguyen
OCC
Food and Beverage Management
Class of 27
Dear OCWS Scholarship Committee,
My name is Alexa Del Rio Arredondo and I’m honored to be one of this year’s OCWS scholarship recipients. Thank you so much for selecting me.
Your generous funding not only helps me financially but also serves as a great reminder of my support system. It feels good knowing that this committee believes in me and my education dreams.
My interest in winemaking stems from the phenomenon we call human connection. Making wine is an extensive process in which every helping hand impacts the next step. In other words, a bottle of wine is born from the collective contribution of hardworking people, and in the process, it connects us to the land.
I am starting my second year at Allan Hancock College this fall and by spring of 2027, I will have completed my associate’s degree in Viticulture and Enology. Afterwards, I plan on transferring to the University of Bordeaux, France to continue my education and career experience, which will be costly but with this scholarship, I am a few steps closer towards my funds goal. Outside of school I am involved in beach cleanups, hiking, gardening, and drawing.
Thanks again for your support in my educational journey.
Kind regards,
Alexa Del Rio Arredondo
Dear Orange County Wine Society,
I am deeply honored and grateful to receive the generous scholarship awarded by the Orange County Wine Society. My name is Nicole Nellis and I am currently continuing my education in the Viticulture and Enology program at Allan Hancock College.
Having worked in the wine industry for the past six years, I have developed a deep appreciation for the people, knowledge and dedication that make this industry so special. Continuing my education is an important step in growing both professionally and personally, and I am grateful for the opportunity to further develop my skills and knowledge while continuing to build my career in an industry I truly enjoy.
Balancing full-time work with school has been challenging on a mental, physical and financial level. Pursuing an education while working full-time requires a significant commitment and the financial demands of continuing my education can sometimes feel overwhelming. Your generous scholarship will help alleviate some of that financial burden and allow me to focus more of my energy on my education and professional development.
Thank you again for your generosity, your support of the Viticulture and Enology program at Allan Hancock College and for believing in students who are working toward a future in the wine industry. I am truly honored to be a recipient of this scholarship and deeply appreciative of the opportunity it provides me.
Gratefully,
Nicole Nellis