Jackie applied through QuestBridge, a non-profit organization that connects students with educational and scholarship opportunities at some of the nation's best colleges and universities. While over 10,000 students applied nationwide, only 321 were ultimately chosen this year.
Over 75% of Quest scholars are among the first generation in their family to attend college, and over 70% are in the top 5% of their graduating class. The Quest scholarship covers all aspects of an academic career, including tuition; books and supplies; personal expenses; room and board; travel; and federal work-study.
Jackie is ranked 1 out of her class of 225, received a perfect "5" on the Advanced Placement (AP) US History exam, plays softball and soccer, participates on the Student Council, and secured the first high school internship offered by Los Angeles City Attorney Carmen Trutanich's office. POLAHS teachers describe Jackie as confident, articulate, an excellent writer, and friendly.
"Last year I put together a group of students who were interested in researching colleges and scholarships. We called ourselves the 'Talented Tenth.' The group met once a week throughout the entire summer, shared findings and information with one another, and worked on resumes and essays. The Talented Tenth organized community service activities and took an SAT tutoring workshop offered through a partnership with Toyota. Jackie worked on her QuestBridge application diligently with the group, and is now an inspiration to future participants." - AP US History instructor Kevin Yourman