The Taco Bell Foundation’s Live Más Scholarship is designed to recognize students who are following their dreams and making them a reality.
We chose the Live Más Scholarship as our teacher selection because it is not a typical scholarship, but one that celebrates creativity, passion, and individuality. Rather than focusing on grades or essays, students between the ages of 16 and 26 submit short videos that demonstrate what they’re passionate about and how they want to make an impact.
Visual arts teacher Rebecca (Hed) Manocchio knows firsthand how life-changing this scholarship can be. She was a beneficiary herself. Now, as a teacher, she shares that opportunity with her students and encourages them to follow their passions. Here’s what Rebecca wants other teachers to know about the program:
What grade or age group is the scholarship best suited for?
The scholarship is open to students between the ages of 16 and 26, so high school juniors and seniors are ideal candidates.
Does this scholarship fit a particular student’s goals and academic curriculum?
I’m sure you can do it! Because our scholarships focus on students’ passions, they can be tailored to essentially any goal or educational path. Specifically, in the application video, students are asked to answer various questions. One of the questions concerns how students’ passions align with their educational goals. Here, the Taco Bell Foundation sees how students are using their passions to positively impact their communities, countries, and even the world through their educational programs.
How do students respond to this scholarship opportunity?
I think (and have experienced) students have very positive reactions to the Live Más scholarship. The majority of the students I teach are already very passionate about something. By basing the scholarship application process on students’ shared passions, it no longer feels like “extra work” or “homework.” Instead, they’re doing something interesting.
Students are also very interested in the application process. They’re excited to not have to write another essay and instead be able to create a video.
You were a recipient of this scholarship, right? What did that mean to you?
I am a four-time recipient of the Live Más Scholarship. I received the scholarship for my passion for duct tape art and sharing art with others. In my experience, people aren’t always the most supportive when I make art with non-traditional materials and decide to pursue a creative field. After a series of rejection letters for my artwork, I received the scholarship. The Live Más community showed up when I needed it most, providing reassurance, encouragement, confidence, and resources to continue pursuing my passion to the fullest.
How have you seen this scholarship positively impact others?
Since I became a Live Más Scholar in 2018, I have had the opportunity to meet so many fellow scholars. One of the main ways in which academics are affected is through the reduced financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. I know that the other scholars in the program are very blessed with the connections and friendships they have made because of the scholarship.
Ethan Chu was one of last year’s scholarship recipients.
How would you summarize your overall impressions about this scholarship program?
The website and application are very easy to understand. Additional resources, examples, and tips are also provided to support students through the process. I also really appreciate that past scholarship recipients are featured on the website with photos, videos, and articles.
What makes this scholarship stand out or feel unique?
When a student receives a scholarship, it’s more than just a check in the mail. Your students will be known by a group of amazing scholars and leaders who want them to succeed.
How does this scholarship program support students?
Taco Bell’s Live Mass Scholarship website states that their mission is to “break down barriers to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders,” and their vision is to “inspire the audacity of every young person to create good.” It is said that “to stimulate one’s ambition”. As a scholarship recipient myself, I can confirm that these two statements are 100% true. Scholarships not only help ease the financial burden of education, but they also provide support through in-person and online events to help students grow and keep their passions alive by surrounding themselves with a community that believes in them.
Is there anything else you would like to know?
After a long day of classes and deciding you want to eat Taco Bell for dinner, say yes when the cashier asks if you want to combine your bill and donate it to the Live Más Scholarship.
Watch Rebecca’s video review of the scholarship.
upcoming videos
Teacher Picks is a sponsored program brought to you by We Are Teachers. All opinions shared in reviews are honest and based on teachers’ direct experience. Click here to learn more about our guidelines and review process.
