Student's football toss
is college money gain

While browsing online, Hubbard came across the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway, a contest sponsored by the soft drink company in which 30 lucky participants would have a chance to win $100,000 toward their college tuition. While Hubbard did not win one of the grand prizes, she still received a substantial $2,500 award for making it to the preliminary rounds.

"I had to send in a one-minute video saying why I need the scholarship and what I want to do with the scholarship money," Hubbard said in an interview before the contest was held. "I want to be a news anchor or a news reporter. I love talking and acting and being on camera."

Hubbard's experience both in front of and behind the camera was invaluable for the contest, as it gave her the skills to put together a high-quality video, rather than the bare-bones submissions sent in by many other hopefuls.

"I included B-roll of me working on footage in the classroom to show them a little bit about what I do," Hubbard said.

Five participants were chosen for each of the BCS conference championship games, plus another five for the BCS National Championship Game. Dr Pepper chose Hubbard's entry from hundreds of submissions, and she was flown to Charlotte, N.C., for the ACC Championship Game, which was held Dec. 1.

To win the top prize, the winner had to defeat the others in a throwing contest. From 10 yards away, the competitors had to throw a football into a hole in a large Dr Pepper can. Here, Hubbard was potentially at a major disadvantage.

"I've never thrown a football before, really," Hubbard said. "I just have to focus and stay hopeful."

Some of the football coaches at Glenda Dawson High School were kind enough to take time out of their schedule to help Hubbard prepare, however, so she began practicing with them, as well as throwing at home whenever she had the chance.

Although she did not win the grand prize, Hubbard was still very grateful for having the experience.

"I just want to thank everyone who helped me," Hubbard said. "And I want to thank Dr Pepper for giving me the opportunity."

About Lauren Hubbard
Age: 18
Occupation: Student
Community Connection: Attends Glenda Dawson High School
Fast Fact: Participates in school broadcast news show

Chris Marshall is a freelance writer. He can be reached at neighborhoods@chron.com.