Congratulations to North Hills High School senior Autumn Lash who received a $15,000 scholarship to Rosedale Technical College where she will pursue a degree in Automotive Mechanics.

Rosedale Admissions Rep Doug Nelson and #1 Cochran Director of Talent Acquisition and Retention Courtney Halle presented the scholarship to Autumn on Tuesday morning.

“I was very surprised,” Autumn said. “I thought I had a good shot because during the interview they said they really liked my energy but it’s been a couple weeks since then. I was getting a little worried so this was a great surprise.”

Autumn is a second-year student in A.W. Beattie’s Early Childhood Education program and plans to combine her two passions – children and automobiles – into one.

“They asked me during my interview what I would do different to stand out in the automotive field,” Autumn said. “I told them what I want to do after Rosedale. My goal is to someday open a garage that has a childcare center attached to it for my employees as well as customers who have children. I want a business that has a true family environment.”

The scholarship presentation occurred in front of Autumn's A.W. Beattie classmates.

“When Mr. Heasley said my name and I heard my mom’s voice I knew something was up,” she said. “I was just overwhelmed and excited. I cried a lot. I was proud of myself and it was really special that they did a presentation here in front of my teachers and my best friends. I’ve loved being in ECE with Mrs. Cari and Mrs. Diane, and I look up to them a lot. I love everyone in that class with my whole heart.”

Autumn also thanked her parents for their support.

“My dad kind of does it all with mechanics, and I’ve always [taken] an interest in how he can make anything work in a matter of minutes or hours,” Autumn said. “Spending that time with him is one of my favorite childhood memories, and I’m so proud of my mom and dad. They always pull through no matter what for me. I’m very thankful for both of them.”

Autumn also appreciates Rosedale and #1 Cochran for supporting students like her.

“I’m over the moon about all of this,” she said. “Everyone I’ve met from Rosedale and #1 Cochran is amazing, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity."