Houston Allergy & Asthma Associates Academic Scholarships

     We are pleased to announce the four recipients (see picture) of the Houston Allergy & Asthma Associates Scholarship Award for the 2005-2006 academic year. The physicians of Houston Allergy and Asthma Associates have elected to offer four $1,000 scholarships per year to patients of the practice. The eligibility requirements include graduating high school seniors and college undergraduates or graduate students who are in good academic standing and have been accepted by, or are currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. college, university or technical school. Applicants must have been a patient of Houston Allergy & Asthma Associates for a minimum of one year. All applicants also submitted an essay on how their allergies and/or asthma and treatment have affected their lives and described their academic goals. We had approximately 20 applicants for the first year of the scholarship program and the selection process was very difficult. All of the applicants were very accomplished and should be congratulated!

     Mark Yurewicz, a 2005 graduate of St. John’s School and National Merit Semifinalist, has been active in theater, choir, and math and science club. In addition to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, Mark was awarded the Presidential Service Award for volunteer work done at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and Texas Children’s Hospital.  Mark’s immediate plans include attending Rice University.  Medical school is his long-term goal, possibly in a M.D./Ph.D program where he can study to practice medicine or do research.

Mark Yurewicz......

         Emily Fortuna graduated from James E. Taylor High School in Katy.  A National Merit Semifinalist and an accomplished violinist, Emily was awarded a summer study abroad scholarship which provided her the opportunity to study the arts and Spanish in Mexico. A small business owner and artist, Emily creates, sells and teaches classes in polymer clay art. A love of math, science, problem solving and logic, combine well for Emily’s goal to major in computer science and to teach. Emily will attend Rice University in the fall.

Emily Fortuna......

     Collin Talhelm’s interest in science, especially biology and genetics, has helped to develop his long range goal of attending medical school to study orthopedic surgery. A graduate of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Collin was a member of National Honor Society and was very involved in the school’s various choral groups being selected as All-State Choir for three years. Collin achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and has also been very active in mission work for the United Methodist Army Mission Work Camp helping to repair housing for the poor and elderly. Collin will attend Baylor University in the University Scholars Program.

Collin Talhelm......

Valerie Frey graduated as the valedictorian of her class at Bay Area Christian School.  A National Merit Finalist and active in various community service projects, music is also an important part of her life.  Valerie is a talented vocalist with her high school and church choir groups. Valerie is looking forward to attending Texas A&M University this fall where she has been accepted into the Mays School of Business.

Valerie Frey......

     Houston Allergy & Asthma Associates congratulates these four outstanding young students and wishes them the very best as they begin their collegiate careers!