Austin, who lives in Jessup and graduated from Hammond High School in the spring, said he was considering going to North Carolina to study music. Because HCC was closer and less expensive, he said, "it was a better option."
Jennifer Rice of Columbia said she was afraid she would have to turn down a spot in HCC's nursing program - for which there is a lengthy waiting list - until she received a $1,000 scholarship from the Charles and Dolores Klein Memorial fund to supplement other grants and loans.
"I am a full-time student, and I also work full time," she said. "Nobody supports me but myself."
Rice said she underwent four heart surgeries before age 4, and that experience inspired her to work toward a career as a nurse practitioner.
"I want to give back to the health care field that has given me so much," she said.
grand prix info
The Grand Prix is held on the campus of Howard Community College, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. Gates open at 10 a.m. Lawn seats are $10 for adults and free for children 10 and younger. Grandstand seats are $15 for adults and $8 for children. Tailgate packages are $100, and tent seats, including buffet and bar, are $200. Information: 410-772-4450, or www.howardcc.edu/grandprix.
