Liberty Senior Wins First Place Scholarship
The Tall Texans of Dallas Scholarship Committee recently awarded a $400 first place scholarship to Liberty senior John Kornet.
“This young man ‘stands out’ from the others for more than just his height,” said Tall Texan Scholarship Committee Chairperson Jo Stone. “We feel honored to have him as our top award winner for 2010.”
Each year, approximately 100 high school seniors and college freshman apply for the Tall Texan scholarship. Applicants must meet the height requirement of 6’2” for men and 5’10” for women. Students write a 250-500 word essay on “What Being Tall Means to Me,” and submit two letters of recommendation. In Kornet’s essay, he wrote:
“Since the first day of third grade when cameras flashed because I was taller than my teacher, great things have been expected of me academically, musically, and athletically. The bar was set high, and I believe I did my best to reach it.
“… being tall is more than a physical trait; it is a key influence on an individual’s identity. Most importantly, it is a gift. I did nothing to earn it. As a result, I believe there is a certain responsibility attached: not only to achieve more, but to treat others kindly, serve the community, and be a role model. What does being tall mean to me? Everything. It is who I am.”
This year, a record-breaking 176 students applied for the scholarship. Out of the 176 applicants, six finalists were chosen. A panel of judges comprised of community leaders including a doctor from Baylor and a Wells Fargo executive interviewed the finalists. When speaking on Kornet’s interview, Stone said she was “so impressed with him all the way around.
“He is a fine young man who interviewed beautifully; his answers were so insightful, and he served as a great representative of his school.”
The judges were so dynamically impressed that they added personal funds to ensure that each candidate was rewarded.
As the first place winner in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Kornet’s entry will be the club’s choice to represent Texas and be eligible to win additional funds for college from Tall Clubs International in June.