Why This Teacher Recommends the Live Más Scholarship

The Live Más Scholarship from the Taco Bell Foundation is all about recognizing students who are chasing their dreams and making them a reality.

We chose the Live Más Scholarship as a Teacher Pick because it’s not your typical scholarship—it celebrates creativity, passion, and individuality. Instead of focusing on grades or essays, students ages 16 to 26 submit a short video showing what they’re passionate about and how they want to make an impact.

Rebecca (Hed) Manocchio, a visual arts teachers, knows firsthand how life-changing this scholarship can be—she was a recipient herself! Now, as a teacher, she shares the opportunity with her students, encouraging them to follow their passions. Here’s what Rebecca wants other teachers to know about this program.

What grade levels or age groups is the scholarship best suited for?

Since the scholarship is for students who are from 16 to 26 years old, high school juniors and seniors are best suited.

Could this scholarship align with any specific student goals or educational pathways?

I definitely think it can! Due to the scholarship focusing on student passions, it can align with basically any goal or educational pathway. Specifically, in the application video, your student will be asked to answer a variety of questions. One of the questions pertains to how the student’s passion aligns with their educational goals. This is where the Taco Bell Foundation sees how your student plans to positively impact their community, country, or even the world with their passion through their educational path.

How do students react to this scholarship opportunity?

I think (and have experienced) that students react very positively to the Live Más Scholarship. The majority of students I teach are already very passionate about something. By having the scholarship application process based on the student sharing their passion, it does not feel like “extra work” or “homework.” Instead, they are doing something that piques their interest!

Students are also very drawn to the application process. It excites them that they get to make a video instead of needing to write another essay.

You were a recipient of this scholarship, right? What did it mean to you?

I am a four-time Live Más Scholarship recipient! I received the scholarship for my duct tape art and passion for sharing art with others. In my experience, making art out of a nontraditional material and deciding to pursue a creative field came with people not always being the most supportive. I received the scholarship after a series of art rejection letters. The Live Más community showed up when I needed it the most and helped provide me reassurance, encouragement, confidence, and resources to help me continue to pursue my passions to the fullest.

How have you seen this scholarship impact others in a positive way?

Since I have been a Live Más Scholar since 2018, I have had the opportunity to meet so many fellow scholars. One of the top ways I have seen the scholars impacted is through the relief of financial burdens caused by pursuing a higher education. I know that other scholars in the program have been very blessed by the connections and friendships made due to the scholarship!

How would you sum up your overall impression of this scholarship program?

The website and application are very clear. There are even additional resources, examples, and tips provided to support your student through the process. I also greatly appreciate that past scholarship recipients are shown on the website through photographs, videos, and articles.

What makes this scholarship stand out or feel unique?

If your student does receive the scholarship, it is not just another check in the mail. Your student will be known by an incredible group of scholars and leaders who want them to succeed.

How does this scholarship program support your students?

On Taco Bell’s Live Más Scholarship website, it says that their mission is to “break down barriers to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders” and that their vision is to “fuel every young person’s boldest ambition to ​create good.” Being a scholarship recipient myself, I can verify that these two statements are 100% true. Not only does the scholarship help provide relief from the educational financial burden, but support is provided through in-person and online events that help grow your students so that they can continue to live out their passion surrounded by a community that believes in them.

Is there anything else you’d like us to know?

After you have had a long day of teaching and decide that you want Taco Bell for dinner, please say “yes” when the cashier asks if you would like to round up your bill to contribute to the Live Más Scholarship!

Check out Rebecca’s video review of the scholarship.