PRCC student receives prestigious Coca-Cola leaders scholarship

Pearl River Community College sophomore Shui Lin of Fujian, China, has received the Coca Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship, a $1,000 grant to help defray the cost of college attendance.

Lin, 29, is a student at the Forrest County Center. His major is Computer Science-Engineering.

He is one of 207 Phi Theta Kappa members named a 2021 Coca-Cola Scholar. The Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. 

According to the criteria, scholars are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential. More than 900 applications were received. 

“This scholarship means a lot to me,” said Lin. “As a non-traditional student who does not speak English as my first language, I was questioned about my ability to do well in school. My family, friends and I, myself, have often doubted my decision to go back to college for further education.

“However, after receiving this scholarship, I feel that I made the right decision because it recognizes that I have put in more time to study than traditional students.”

Lin is a member of the Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute, the Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Sigma Kappa Delta English Honor Society, and he is an officer of the Mississippi-Louisiana Phi Theta Kappa.

He plans to further his education at either Columbia University or Stony Brook University.

“Shui was selected from more than 900 applicants to win this award; his outstanding academic achievement and demonstrated leadership potential positioned him to earn this honor and serves as more evidence that PRCC produces the best students in the nation,” said Dr. Terri Ruckel, Dean, Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute.

Said Lin, “Being a PRCC student is an important part of my life. Drs. Ryan and Terri Ruckel are like my family in this school. They inspire me with their professionalism and patience whenever I can’t keep it up.

“In other words, it was PRCC’s acceptance of all students that helped me to rediscover my dreams after 10 years away from school.”

For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats)  Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS) and Facebook(@PRCCMKTG).

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