TYLER, Texas — A Tyler Legacy High School senior sailed into a life-changing moment Tuesday
William Barker was surprised to find out he had one a Navy ROTC full-ride scholarship worth up to $200,000. With his family and classmates on hand, a group of US Navy officials congratulated him.
The scholarship is one of just over 50 to be given in this region, and it includes full tuition, room and board, books and a monthly stipend at one of the 60 colleges or universities that offer the Navy ROTC program.
Barker was chosen based on multiple essays, interviews and his hard work during his high school years.
US Navy Commander David Schaller said Barker was an impressive candidate with a great character, academic achievements and his participation in the Eagle Scout program.
"I was really surprised, actually yeah. I would've worn something nicer if I knew, but ...," Barker said. "Right now, I’m applying to Yale University with the scholarship, so hopefully I will be able to attend there to be commissioned as an officer."
As part of the application, Barker was asked if there were any teachers in his life that made an impact on him. He spent the afternoon dropping in on those teachers to present them with an Impact Influencer Award.