Luis Escobar III Foundation Scholarship

Hello, my name is Bauer Smehyl. I am currently a senior at Sebring High School and I maintain a 4.5 GPA. Ever since I was a child, I have always loved going outside and building things whether it was a fort in the woods, a medieval shield, spears, etc. The idea of creating something from nothing is fascinating to me. As I began to contemplate what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, I knew Engineering was for me, specifically Civil Engineering with a focus in Construction. I know that through the work that I do, I can show Christ's love for everyone. For the past seven years, my church has been involved in a summer camp called Lake Wales Stay at Home Work Camp, sponsored by the non-profit organization Lake Wales Care Center. During this camp, we split up into different groups and go to work sites where we are repairing homes for disadvantaged homeowners who cannot afford the regular labor costs. These jobs include repairing roofs, repainting houses, and moving furniture. Going through these camps has helped me realize the impact the my pathway could have on peoples lives. As I progress through the engineering field I want to eventually create my own business that focuses on providing service for those who are in need of assistance. Through these opportunities, I hope to share the love of Christ with all customers. I have been a believer in Christ ever since I was 5 years old where I accepted his love at a Good News Club. I have always been involved in the church. I have been a part of the Bible Fellowship Church Youth Band for 7-8 years now playing the Bass Guitar. I am also involved in being an Assistant Leader on Wednesday nights for our 6th grade boys small group. My family and I have also participated in 3 of the church missions trips to Mexico, where we work with an organization named Be2Live. In my personal life, I always want to ensure that my relationship with Christ comes before everything else. Every day I make sure to read my Bible devotional written by various authors. A huge part in maintaining my walk with Christ is finding a group of friends who share the same investment as I do. I have an amazing circle of friends, and we support each other in our different walks with Christ. It's amazing how the right group of people really can draw you closer to the Lord. We hold Bible studies and different worship nights together. As I move into the college level, I want to find a great church. I also want to keep in touch with my old friend circle as well as making a new one, that way we can still walk each other through the tough times as we lean on Christ. Receiving this scholarship would be a huge relief, as it alleviates a majority of the financial burden that comes with rates of college. I could focus on the Civil Engineering pathway and prepare to live the life that Christ has in store for me. I would be able to put my head down and grind, being the best version of myself that I can, not having to look up to check how much is in my wallet. Regardless of the outcome, I know the Lord has a plan for my life, and though at times it is hard to trust that plan, he always has the best in store for us.