Scholar Films
Harun's most recent film, In the Name of the Son, is based on his experiences growing up in wartime Bosnia
Alexander Scharch
“I owe a lot of my success to my parents, who have always pushed me to greater things. If it weren't for them, I would never have started taking advanced classes during elementary and middle school, and would never have had access to the programs I eventually became a part of.”
- Program: 2011 College Scholarship Recipient
- Resides: Studio City, CA
- Hometown: Studio City, CA
- Age: 19
- Four-year College or University: University of Southern California
- Other Interests: Volunteer Work, Music (Tenor Saxophone and Clarinet), Spending Time with Friends
Biography
Highlights of Young Scholar Experience: Alex Scharch’s love for music, especially jazz, was nurtured by the Foundation through its support of clarinet and saxophone lessons for the young man. Alex was also able to attend the Stanford University Jazz Workshop four years in a row, special courses taught by some of the best music instructors in the world.
Profile: Even when he was a youngster, Alex’s teachers recognized he had a special aptitude for mathematics. And that knowledge base increased over the years for the young man from Southern California. Afforded the opportunity to attend the exclusive Harvard-Westlake Preparatory School near his home, Alex thrived not only in the classroom, but within the school community with involvement in extracurricular activities and by also volunteering at food pantries in his region. An excellent musician, Alex’s high school ensemble traveled to Europe in 2010 and performed five concerts during the six day excursion. Alex has a special love for jazz, calling it “a defining part of my life.”
Inspiration: Alex has had more than his share of great teachers and music instructors, but an English teacher at Harvard-Westlake, Larry Weber, made the biggest impression on this Young Scholar. “Mr. Weber teaches every class with a smile on his face . . . that doesn't mean he'll settle for mediocre discussions, but rather that he wants to dig deeper and deeper into each work. He never demands the respect of his students, but always earns it, through both his intelligence and wit.”
Aspiration: Career goals are still taking shape for Alex.
Making a Difference: For a long time, almost seven years, Alex has been a volunteer at the North Hollywood Food Pantry.
Accolades: The College Board named Alex a “Scholar With Honor” in 2010. Alex has also been elected to the Cum Laude Society through his high school.
Interesting Fact: Alex is one of two Young Scholars from Studio City. The other is Kevin Kim.
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