The Live Más Scholarship from the Taco Bell Foundation is about seeing students who chase their dreams and make them a reality.
We chose the Live Más Scholarship as a Teacher’s Choice because it’s not your average scholarship—it celebrates creativity, passion, and humanity. Instead of focusing on grades or stories, students aged 16 to 26 submit a short video showing what they are most passionate about and how they want to make an impact.
Rebecca (Hed) Manocchio, a visual arts teacher, knows firsthand how life-changing this scholarship can be—she was a recipient herself! Now, as a teacher, he shares the opportunity with his students, encouraging them to follow their passions. Here’s what Rebecca wants other teachers to know about this program.
What grade levels or age groups is the scholarship best suited for?
Since the scholarship is for students aged 16 to 26 years old, high school juniors and seniors are most eligible.
Can this scholarship match any specific student goals or educational pathways?
I think it’s possible! Because scholarship focuses on the interests of students, it can be aligned with basically any goal or method of education. Specifically, in the application video, your student will be asked to answer various questions. One of the questions concerns how the student’s passion is aligned with their educational goals. This is where the Taco Bell Foundation sees that your student plans to have a positive impact on the community, the country, or the entire world with their passion through their educational approach.
How are students responding to this scholarship opportunity?
I think (and have experience) that students respond very well to the Live Más Scholarship. Most of the students I teach are already interested in something. By having a scholarship application process based on the student sharing their passion, it doesn’t feel like “extra work” or “homework.” Instead, they do something that piques their interest!
Students are also very interested in the application process. It makes them happy that they get to make a video instead of having to write another story.
You were a recipient of this scholarship, right? What did it mean to you?
I am a four-time Live Más Scholarship recipient! I received a scholarship for my tape art and love of sharing art with others. In my experience, making art with non-traditional materials and deciding to pursue a creative career came with people who were not always very supportive. I got a scholarship after a series of art rejection letters. The Live Más community came up when I needed it most and helped give me reassurance, encouragement, confidence, and resources to help me continue to pursue my passions to the fullest.
How have you seen this scholarship affect others in a positive way?
Since I have been a Live Más Scholar since 2018, I have had the opportunity to meet so many scholars. One of the best ways I’ve seen professors affected is the relief from the financial burdens that come with pursuing higher education. I know that other scholars in the program have been greatly blessed by the connections and friendships made as a result of the scholarship!
How would you summarize your overall vision for this scholarship program?
The website and application are very clear. There are additional resources, examples, and tips provided to support your student through the process. I also appreciate that past scholarship recipients are featured on the website through photos, videos, and articles.
What makes this scholarship stand out or feel unique?
When your student receives a scholarship, it’s not just another check in the mail. Your student will be recognized by an amazing group of academics and leaders who want him to succeed.
How does this scholarship program support your students?
On Taco Bell’s Live Más Scholarship website, it states that their mission is to “break down barriers to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders” and that their vision is to “further the desire of all young people to create good.” As a scholarship recipient myself, I can confirm that these two statements are 100% true. Not only does the scholarship help provide relief from the financial burden of education, but support is provided through in-person and online events that help nurture your students to live the lives they love surrounded by a community that believes in them.
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
After you’ve had a long day of teaching and you’ve decided you want Taco Bell for dinner, please say “yes” when the cashier asks if you’d like to consolidate your credit to donate to the Live Más Scholarship!
Check out Rebecca’s video review of the scholarship.
Teacher Picks is a sponsored program available from We Are Teachers. All opinions shared in the review are honest and based on the teacher’s direct experience. To learn more about our guidelines and review process, click here.
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