For ALA Junior members who retain their membership into adulthood, the American Legion Auxiliary offers the Member Loyalty Scholarship to current college students. Learn more at www.ALAforVeterans.org/scholarships. 
 
Alyssa Enriquez is a sophomore at Texas Tech University. She’s connected to the military through her father, Raymond Swann, a U.S. Army veteran who served 22 years. Enriquez, 19, first joined the ALA in 2015.   
 
What did your ALA Junior membership mean to you?
It connected me to a community of strong, service-minded individuals. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to be an ALA Junior member, and I am honored to be a part of this community and will always carry this part of my life — doing whatever I can to support our military servicemen and women. 
 

What does it mean for you to continue your membership as a senior Auxiliary member?
I am able to carry forth the traditions and values I had as a Junior member, while also taking on greater responsibilities. It allows me to continue honoring and supporting veterans and military families, while also mentoring younger members. 
 
What college degree are you pursuing? Why does this career interest you?
I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public relations and creative media industries, along with a certificate in sports media. I am passionate about working in the professional sports industry, specifically in roles like sports photography or as part of a social media team for organizations like the NFL or NBA. 
 
Growing up, I was always involved in and surrounded by sports, and photography has long been one of my biggest passions. As I continue to pursue a career in a field that is still male-dominated, I hope to be a role model for other young women, showing them that their passions are valid and their goals are achievable. Representation matters, and I aim to be part of the growing movement of women breaking barriers in sports media. I want to inspire others just as I have been inspired by the women who came before me. 
 
Tell us about additional experiences preparing you for your career.
This is my third semester participating in Raider Vision, where I work behind the scenes running cameras for televised collegiate athletic games, working with ESPN. This experience has been high pressure and fast-paced, requiring quick thinking and strong communication skills that are critical in the professional sports media world. I am also actively pursuing an internship with my college’s athletic department.
 
How will being a recipient of the ALA Member Loyalty Scholarship benefit you?
It will alleviate some of the financial burdens of college, allowing me to focus more on my academic and professional goals. But more importantly, it also serves as a reminder of the support I have from such an amazing organization.
 
Why is it important for donors to support ALA’s scholarship funds? 
It empowers the next generation of leaders and service-minded individuals. Many students like me are working hard to pursue higher education [for] a variety of meaningful careers. Donors help make these dreams possible.
 
What would you say to others who are eligible for this scholarship but unsure of applying?
You never know what opportunities may come from simply putting yourself out there. Just remember: Nothing bad can come out of applying, so take the risk because you never know what may come from it. 

Is there anything else you want to add? 
I am just so incredibly grateful for the opportunities and values the ALA has provided me throughout my life. I just want to say “Thank you” for everything, and especially for this scholarship, as it’s going to play a very impactful role in my life.