Pedro Diaz- Vargas
My name is Pedro A. Diaz-Vargas and I am from Bogota Colombia. I came to the United States about four years ago and ever since I have my best to showcase the hardworking spirit of my beloved country. Right now I am a senior in the School of Computer Engineering and plan to obtain my bachelors degree in December 2008. The scholarship that I have been awarded from COUAA will help me cover a significant portion of my bursar balance and it will give me the opportunity to complete my degree a semester earlier. However, apart from the financial benefit, this scholarship embodies the good will and passion of the Colombian alumni towards the international body at the university and specially the Colombian community. These acts of kindness and generosity are what unite us as community and what allow us to change the mentality people have about our country.
I personally wanted to thank the members and officers of the COUAA who made this fund possible because thanks to their generosity and desire to give back, we are able to leave mark of excellence here at the University of Oklahoma.
COLSA Web Master 2006-2008
Sebastian Granados
This scholarship is going to help me in many different ways, it is going to help me economically as well as give me support knowing that I am doing a good job at OU. This scholarship is going to take me one step closer to my graduation. I am really thankful for this opportunity, which gave me more energy and enthusiasm to continue what I am doing, and it helped me see that being a good student is important.
COLSA Public Relations Chair Spring 2008
Andres Castaño
My name is Andres Castaño. I am currently enrolled in the M.S Petroleum Engineering program and am planning to graduate in May 2009. I plan to use the funds of the scholarship granted to me from COUAA towards paying for tuition and fees for both the spring 08 and fall 08 semesters. I feel that this scholarship is more of a victory for COUAA than for us the recipients. We were just fortunate to be in the right place at the right time. A few years ago this kind of award would not have been possible, but with the determination and efforts of COUAA members, today it is. I really appreciate the support of all of the COUAA members that made these scholarships possible. I am looking forward to being an active member of COUAA in the future when I can re -contribute the help that I am getting today to future students in need.
There are no words to express how proud (or happy) I feel about getting this recognition. I am not only happy because of the money and support, but because of what this scholarship means to me as a Colombian. Getting this award emphasizes the mission of being an outstanding ambassador of our beloved country anywhere around the world, and what a better place to start that at OU where I can serve as a good example of work and discipline to other Colombian students.
Again, thanks to COUAA for trusting me as an honored recipient of the scholarship.
COLSA Member 2007-2008
Carlos Santacruz
As the President of the Colombian Student Association I feel the passion every Colombian student has about our organization. COLSA represents the feelings of every member of our association, and we work to preserve it, as well as to reach out to all international students at the University of Oklahoma through campus activities. COLSA has been recognized as one of the best student associations at the University of Oklahoma. I am very proud of COLSA. As our association reaches out to the Oklahoma community, it has also been eager to give us the support we need to stay strong. Thanks COOUA for recognizing our work. We all have gratitude towards your effort and collaboration and would not be the organization we are today without your gracious support.
Con gratitude
Carlos Santacruz
COLSA President (2007-2008)
Kristin Hansen
As an American student and an officer of the Colombian Student Association, I am very grateful to have received a scholarship from COUAA. Being a member of COLSA has taught me so much about the beautiful culture of Colombia and through the organization I have become more globally competent. I am very passionate about spreading my love for Colombian culture to other American students and helping young people become more aware of the world around them. Thank you COUAA!
COLSA Cultural Chair (2007-2008)
Andres Guerrero
I was born in Cucuta, Colombia and immigrated to the US in 1999. I finished up High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma and decided to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in Aviation. Since my freshman year, I have been involved in many organizations including the Colombian Student Association. I am proud to be an officer of COLSA and to promote the True Colombia to the world. I am very fortunate to work with a great group of people such as the other COLSA officers and general members. I am also very Thankful for the Scholarship given by the COUAA. This financial contribution will be used to cover my tuition and fees and therefore not take out any more loans. I would like to thank all the members in COUAA in selecting me for this award. I will continue to work hard for COLSA to become the best organization and to show the world the how beautiful my country is.
Que Viva Colombia!
COLSA Secretary (2007 - 2008)