The Wells Call Annual Scholarship Contest
2026 Scholarship Winner
Congratulations to the winner of our 2026 Wells Call Annual Scholarship Contest, Valentina Mercado!
Valentina is an electrical Engineering student at the University of Florida with a passion for optimizing systems, solving complex problems, and leveraging technology to create meaningful impact.
At the University of Florida, she conducts robotics research, she has also gained industry experience through internships in web accessibility and development and venture planning, where she worked on AI-supported business planning and startup strategy. She’s also involved in other clubs such as Florida Women in Business, the Women’s Network, and Engineering Without Borders.
Outside of engineering, she enjoys reading, running, and being with her friends. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a career where she can create lasting value for society.
The Consequences of Drunk Driving with Young Drivers
Automobile accidents are the leading cause of death among teens, with one-third of those deaths being alcohol-related. According to the CDC, young drivers are 17 times more likely to die in a car accident when they have a blood alcohol concentration of .08% than when they have not been drinking.
Simply put, drunk driving is a huge public safety problem. While young drivers are not the sole demographic responsible for drunk driving, they do make up a decent percentage of the whole. In the US, licensed drivers under 21 are responsible for 17% of fatal-related crashes even though they are only 10% of the total licensed drivers. We must find a way to prevent drunk driving.
There are always ways to create safer roadways for all of us. Of course, we can be a part of the solution by not participating in driving while intoxicated, but how can we help others?
The Safer Roadways Scholarship
In an effort to reduce the number of young drivers getting behind the wheel while under the influence, the lawyers at Wells Call are offering a $1500 scholarship to students.
Overview
We are asking students to write an essay of at least 500 words (and no more than 1000 words) sharing a compelling idea that could help lower or even prevent drunk driving among teens. Remember, provide a concrete idea and follow it up with actionable steps that could be taken.
About Wells Call
Wells Call is a Bay Area personal injury law firm that handles hundreds of auto accident cases per year. Clients from across California and the Western U.S. count on our demonstrated ability to achieve justice, even in the most unique and difficult personal injury and wrongful death cases. We currently have offices in Napa, Fairfield, Vallejo, Vacaville, Woodland, and Richmond.
Eligibility Rules
- Applicants must be EITHER outgoing high school seniors (graduating summer 2027) OR students currently enrolled in a college, trade school, or university as of the start of the fall 2027 semester.
- Must submit an essay by July 14, 2027.
Scholarship FAQ
What do I need to write about in my essay?
We want students to write about a compelling idea to help prevent drunk driving among teens. We want to encourage students to think outside the box. There is no one answer; be creative! Next, we want students to consider and back up their idea with actionable steps that could be taken today.
What is the deadline for the submission?
Applicants must be received by no later than July 14, 2027.
When will the winner be selected and notified?
A winner will be selected by no later than August 15, 2027.
**Due to a high number of submissions please do not call the firm in regard to the scholarship contest.
