Campbell High Grad Wins Statewide Script-writing Contest

McMillan Ching with the iPad he earned for his winning script. Photo from Lesli Yogi.

McMillan Ching, a recent Campbell High School graduate, took the grand prize in a commercial script-writing challenge to encourage youths to prepare for college and a career. The challenge, which was open to students in grades 6 through 12, was hosted by GEAR UP Hawaii. GEAR UP, or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, is a federally funded program that aims to increase awareness and preparedness for postsecondary education among low-income students.

Ching’s script focuses on aspirations of students in grades K-12 to go to college – along with their motivation to work toward their dreams.

Currently, his script is in the process of being professionally produced for both television and radio. The spots will air throughout the state.

“We want to congratulate all the students who participated in our contest,” said GEAR UP project director Angela Jackson. “It’s never too early to start thinking about one’s future, and it’s exciting to see that so many students across the state took the time to write about the importance of preparing for college and a career.”

Ching will attend University of Hawaii at Manoa in the fall.