Prestigious national scholarship awarded to UCS graduate

A 2014 Utica Community Schools graduate is one of approximately 250 students nationwide to earn a merit-based scholarship covering full tuition costs at Vanderbilt University.

Utica Academy for International Studies graduate Saurabh Jha earned an estimated $200,000 full scholarship to the Nashville-based university.

Jha was named a Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholar, one of three merit-based scholarships that are annually available to incoming students.

The scholarship is awarded to students who combine outstanding academic achievement with strong leadership and contributions outside the classroom.

Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholars receive full tuition plus a one-time stipend to be used toward a summer study abroad or research experience usually following their sophomore or junior year.

Jha was a UAIS valedictorian, Macomb Academic Scholar, Advanced Placement Scholar and a National Merit Commended Student.

He plans to study environmental engineering and economics.