The Earl Woods Scholar Program Winter Workshop kicked off 2025 empowering current Scholars to ‘bet on themselves’ during the three-day event featuring sessions from building professional portfolios and a growth mindset to personal branding and mock interviews.
Each year TGR Foundation gathers Scholars attending colleges and universities across the country at the flagship TGR Learning Lab Anaheim for three days to connect with their peers, develop skills through interactive workshops and celebrate graduating seniors entering their final terms.
With a majority of Scholars being the first in their families to pursue higher education, the community provided through the program is a highlight for students at all stages of their college and career journeys.
“I always learn a lot, but I think for me, the biggest thing is the social aspect,” said Tymma Asaed, senior at Pomona College. “I look forward to it every year because… we all get to grow closer every year. We have three dedicated days to hang out.”
Freshmen in the program meet their peers across four regions during the summer before beginning their college journeys, and Winter Workshop expands their network as they connect with upperclassmen.
“It was amazing,” said Gerard Heard, freshman at Pennsylvania State University. “It felt good seeing a lot of old faces, meeting new people and helping people in Orange County [through our service project at the OC Food Bank.] I enjoyed it a lot.”
The impact of community building is also felt among staff, mentors and families of graduating scholars. During remarks at the luncheon several leaders highlighted the event as “a favorite of the year” as they connect with students and celebrate the growth and accomplishments of soon-to-be graduates.
“It was really an emotional time,” said Asaed. “Hearing everybody’s speeches, seeing everybody’s parents, it’s like, wow, we’ve all grown up through college together. It was very sweet. It was nice to see everybody’s accomplishments.”
In addition to new skills to integrate while working toward their college and career goals, Scholars will return to their studies with an expanded network of peers and professionals.
“One lesson I plan to take back with me to college is to step out of out of my comfort zone,” added Heard. “I enjoyed hearing the alumni speak about their own jobs and experiences in college. I want to thank Mr. Tiger Woods for making this all possible and everyone who is working behind the scenes at TGR Foundation. I really appreciate having the opportunity to be here.”
Visit TGRFoundation.org for more information on the Earl Woods Scholar Program and ways to join its mission to empower students to pursue their passions through education.
