The Licensing International Foundation’s mission focuses on the next generation of licensing leaders, awarding students from around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing at all stages of their educational journey.

What was your reaction when you first found out you had received a Licensing International Foundation Scholarship?
I was amazed but ecstatic when I learned I had won the scholarship. I was just getting out of my AP government class when I saw the email and it felt very surprising but in a good way like when you get that one special Christmas gift you were asking for. I felt very honored and was extremely grateful that I had been selected as a scholarship recipient. I had applied the previous summer with no success, but I was encouraged to do so again.  It was so rewarding that my persistence and continued efforts paid off.

What did receiving this scholarship mean to you?
Receiving this scholarship means so much to me as it opened a large window of opportunity to meet with many members of the licensing industry. This scholarship not only helped me greatly financially by taking away some of the financial burden that comes with attending college but also allowed me to attend the 2024 Licensing Expo in Las Vegas which was an amazing experience. I learned more about the licensing industry and had the opportunity to build my network with many successful executives in the industry. What stood out was how much each executive loved their careers and the industry itself. There was a great deal of positivity that has made me feel even stronger about working in the licensing industry after college.

How has the Scholarship Program helped jumpstart or further your career?
So far, the scholarship has significantly helped me fund part of my college tuition and it has also allowed me to network with various individuals within the licensing industry. Being able to hear about these individuals’ careers and experiences greatly encouraged me and gave me a new perspective about my future in the industry as well as giving me valuable insights into the industry itself.

Did this scholarship make you rethink your career goals?
Receiving this scholarship has inspired me to pursue a job and eventual career in the licensing industry.  Not only is it really interesting, but there is such enthusiasm from everyone I met at the 2024 Licensing Expo. It is surprising it is not a “well-known” industry by the public, despite the size of the industry and the importance brand licensing has in everyday consumer’s lives. I look forward to working in the licensing industry in the future and hope that scholarships like these can provide more awareness to high school and college students who would be interested and do well in the industry.

How have you grown professionally and personally from this experience?
This experience has been incredibly valuable in helping me grow professionally and gain a clearer sense of direction for my future after college. As a high school student, I haven’t had much exposure to the business world, particularly in areas like licensing. However, this opportunity showed me that hard work and persistence truly pay off, as evidenced by my multiple attempts to secure the scholarship. It also made me realize that I can be part of something greater and achieve more than I ever thought possible. This experience was eye-opening, revealing that by stepping out of my comfort zone and giving my best effort, I can accomplish amazing things, even with limited experience.

What advice would you give to current college students who are thinking of applying to the 2025 Scholarship Program?
I want to encourage not only college students but also high school seniors to give their best effort, regardless of how they perceive their own achievements (or lack thereof). I would urge them to maintain a positive outlook and recognize that they are capable of much more than they might think. With continued effort and hard work, they too can apply for and earn this scholarship.

Looking ahead, what are your next steps or aspirations?
Looking ahead, I am really excited to start my freshman year at Point Loma Nazarene University here in San Diego, Ca.  I will be focused on excelling in school and focused on learning a lot as I pursue a bachelor’s degree in business marketing. While I’m not 100% sure what the future holds, I do know I am very interested in working in the licensing industry and hope to accomplish great things during and after my years at PLNU.

As part of our mission to inspire the next generation of talent globally while advancing the understanding of licensing in society, Licensing International’s Scholarship Program grants scholarships to deserving individuals around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing. Scholarships are available for students at all stages of their educational journey seeking degrees in business, marketing, design, engineering, entrepreneurial studies, e-commerce, and other brand licensing industry-related programs, and will be made directly to the institution to cover educational expenses.  Support the next generation of brand licensing professionals with a donation to the Licensing International Scholarship Fund. Even the smallest donation can make an impact in our community.