Scholarship recipient gives back to Air Force

There are a number of scholarships available for military dependents who want to attend college, and many are just an essay away. 

One scholarship recipient found a way to give back to the community who awarded her the chance of a lifetime.

Sara Pavich, 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs intern, received a scholarship from the Ramstein Officers’ Spouses Association in 2010.

“In order to apply for the scholarship, I had to send in my transcripts, test scores and write a short essay,” Pavich said. “I was very excited when I found out I got the scholarship. Every little bit helps, especially with books and tuition.”

Receiving a scholarship is an honor and a blessing to those who were selected.

“I am very proud that she was selected. She was very worthy,” said Col. Todd Pavich, Headquarters, U.S. Air Forces in Europe global force management operations and readiness division chief. “There are resources available for people to do what they want, and they can get those resources by showing passion and skills. (Scholarships) are good things for people to give and receive.”

Sara decided to obtain a degree in media arts and design with a concentration in print journalism, using the money to go to James Madison University in Virginia.

“I loved the program there,” she said. “The professors were really knowledgeable and passionate about helping their students make a career. Many people said getting a degree in journalism was a waste of time, but I couldn’t imagine studying anything else.”

The scholarship given to Sara provided her the chance to give back to the community by becoming an intern at Ramstein.

“I had a great opportunity with my dad being stationed here to come and intern,” Sara said. “Being able to live in Europe and gain work experience no one else will get is priceless. I am very proud that I can serve my country in my own way, by giving back to the community that helped me with my education.”

Sara’s internship here has been an invaluable one as she continues to grow as part of the team.

“Sara has been a wonderful contributor to the 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs mission,” said Maj. Tony Wickman, 86th AW chief of public affairs. “She jumped in feet-first, stepped up to every challenge we have given her and became a valuable asset to tell our story. She has a wonderful attitude and demeanor, and we couldn’t ask for a better volunteer intern.”

Sara graduates in spring and plans to move to California where she will continue her endeavors as a journalist. Her dream is to work at a lifestyle magazine company in Denver.