Life Tools & Community Support through Pres House Scholarships: Candid Corps and Future Focus spotlight

Aurora H. is a senior at UW and has called Pres House Apartments home for 3 years! She reflects on her experience participating in the Candid Corps scholarship for 2 years and is currently in the Future Focus scholarship:

As a senior at UW, there are many uncertainties about what life will look like after college. But knowing that I’m not alone in feeling this way and that others are navigating similar emotions, has been a great
comfort. The Future Focus scholarship program has been an enriching experience that has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of both myself and those around me. The activities and discussions have been valuable tools for addressing challenges and collaboratively solving problems around what a good post-college life might look like for us. This group has created a welcoming space where I can share my concerns about the future without fear of judgment.

Being a part of this group has also allowed me to engage with people who offer fresh perspectives and ideas, which has encouraged me to think about my life in new ways. I appreciate the opportunity to ask questions and learn essential life skills, ranging from managing finances and finding jobs to achieving a healthy work-life balance. The flexibility of Future Focus is another aspect I appreciate, as the topics discussed can be shaped by the group’s interests and needs. This ensures that we’re addressing what truly matters to us as individuals and as a collective. Through my participation, I’ve not only learned practical skills but also developed a clearer sense of my core values and strengths. The thoughtful discussions and activities have helped me reflect on my personal growth, making me feel more prepared and confident for the future ahead.

I also had the privilege of participating in Candid Corps for two years, and during that time, I witnessed significant growth in both myself and my roommates. Having dedicated time and space to engage with Ginger (Director of Candid and Community Initiatives) and my group was incredibly valuable for holding myself accountable to my personal goals. The structure and consistency of these meetings helped me stay focused on making meaningful progress.

Through Candid, I improved several areas of my life, such as establishing a better work-life balance, cooking more frequently, and finding ways to nurture my mental health. These lessons have remained with me, even after my time in the program ended. Whenever I feel strongly about wanting to improve something, I now have the tools to approach my goals in a way that feels manageable and sustainable.

Beyond the small group meetings, the workshops were especially useful in shifting my perspective and encouraging me to reflect on my habits. In particular, the workshops that focused on stress management and life balance were incredibly applicable. The presentations, hands-on activities, and opportunities to engage with others who shared similar goals always helped me work towards my goals. These workshops not only provided new insights but also gave me the chance to connect with people on a deeper level. Sharing experiences and learning from others made me realize the power of community and reflection in personal growth.

Curious about any of our scholarship opportunities? Visit our Scholarship Programs page!