This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The long-awaited letter arrived the day of prom.
"I thought, 'This could make or break my day,'" said Layton High School senior Daniel Patino. "It was the best day ever."
Patino learned, as he was donning his tuxedo, that he was among 16 Utah students who had been named Daniels Scholars for demonstrating strong character and a determination to succeed in life. The winners will receive funding to attend the college or university of their choice.
Winning the scholarship was another step in a positive direction for the once-troubled Patino, who will attend Weber State University.
"Since my parents divorced when I was 12, I moved like eight times in five years, and I've lived all over Layton," said Patino, who noted he was angry and joined the wrong crowd.
Last year, he overdosed on drugs.
"I was hospitalized and I thought I was going to die," he said.
The teen now believes the near-death experience was the best thing that could've happened to him.
"I realized that my lifestyle wasn't really getting me anywhere, and I wasn't going to accomplish anything by being a hoodlum," he said. "I wasn't helping my family being the way I was."
Patino, who always got good grades even during his "terrorizing years," made a 180-degree turn in life following the overdose. He decided he didn't want to be negative and antisocial anymore so he got involved with community service.
"I totally changed my attitude because I thought I had a second chance," Patino said. "I skyrocketed from there, and I kind of realized my potential."
Daniels Scholarships, established by Bill Daniels, former owner of the Utah Stars and an inductee into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame, aren't a full ride. Recipients are required to apply for other financial resources, such as Pell Grants. The Daniels Fund covers whatever costs remain, including tuition, books, and room and board.
"These are promising and motivated students who have demonstrated strong character, leadership and a commitment to community service," said Linda Childears, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund. "They are outstanding young people, and the Daniels Fund is proud to partner with them as they fulfill their dreams of attending college."
Patino will study music at Weber State University.
"I love music," he said. "It's a huge passion of mine, so I figured 'why not go for it?'"