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Brooke Walker ReportingThis time of year, high school seniors start looking ahead to the future. We met one Utah student who couldn't afford the future she'd always dreamed of, but one letter changed that.
"Dear Ms. Wolfgramm, Congratulations on being selected as a 2006-2007 Gates Millennium Scholar."
Just one opportunity can open a lot of doors.
Monica Wolfgramm, 2006 Gates Millennium Scholar: "I was jumping up and down, I was so happy. And then I sat down and I cried because this is such a big thing and this is going to help me a lot."
That help comes from the Bill and Melinda Gates Scholarship Foundation. As a Gates Millennial Scholar, Monica will receive up to ten years of free education -- paid tuition, books, housing and living expenses -- anywhere she chooses to go.
Monica Wolfgramm: "My dream has always been to go to college and make something for myself. I feel like this is it."
The scholarship is awarded to minority students with financial need and is based on community service, leadership and academics. Monica maintained a 3.9 GPA while attending Riverton High School. Her teachers say they aren't surprised by the honor.
Sandra Graham, Teacher: "She is going to be a great asset to society and to the community when she is finished with her education."
The Gates Millennial Scholarship not only recognizes students for success in the classroom, but outside of school as well.
Monica Wolfgramm: "I've had a lot of disappointments, but I feel like this is going to help me tremendously."
Monica describes her growing up years as rough. When her parents divorced, most of her family moved to Texas. Her Dad became seriously ill last year and she moved in with her grandparents.
Monica Wolfgramm: "It's been an eye-opening experience, kind of having to do it alone, but it's made me more independent."
And more prepared to take on the world and her dreams.
Monica Wolfgramm: "I look at education as a way to overcome things in your life and as a way to find freedom from the hardships, and to make something of yourself."
Monica is the first person in her family to attend college. After a semester at the University of Utah, she plans to attend BYU Hawaii and then hopes to study International Business at a University in Switzerland.
