Being the first in my small Honduran family to leave home and break long-standing patterns always felt overwhelming. However, I set a goal for myself in eight grade: to attend the University of Texas at Austin. I told myself I had to do it not only for myself but most importantly for my family. While change can be daunting, I’ve always believed that pushing through it leads to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

My mother is my greatest source of inspiration and a true hero in my eyes which has shaped the immense admiration I have for her and everything she has done for my sisters and me. She did everything she could to give us a stable life, even when her chances felt limited. Therefore, all I ever prayed for was to grow up, work hard, pursue my dreams, and give her the life she deserves. I had to have this mindset for her. As a little girl, I witnessed her financial, medical, and personal challenges, and often felt helpless as I watched her carry so much on her own. Despite the struggles, we always found moments to laugh together and as long as I had my mom and my sisters by my side there was always a reason to feel grateful.

Seeing how hard-working she was growing up pushed me to develop that same work ethic. It became a core value I carried with me and began living it out in everything I pursued. This drive led me to become Class President during my freshman and senior years of high school, serve as the lead pianist in school band, participate in multiple sports and become Volleyball Captain, and ultimately graduate as Salutatorian, all while working two jobs.

As a high school senior, I began to question whether attending UT was financially attainable. The thought of leaving my family, affording the cost of living in Austin, and dealing with homesickness felt overwhelming and at the time, community college seemed like the safest, most practical choice. However, I was determined not to let anything stand in the way of the goal I had set for myself in eighth grade. My family always encouraged me to pursue my dream of attending UT, but I hesitated because I didn’t want to place the financial burden on them. That’s when I discovered the Forty Acres Scholars Program and decided to apply after learning about the strong community and meaningful connections it offers.

A couple days after applying, I received an email stating that I was one of 60 finalists for the scholarship and I felt more hopeful than ever. I prayed constantly and asked God for guidance and strength, especially in case the outcome wasn’t what I hoped for. On the third day of Finalist Weekend, my family picked me up and seeing how proud they were of me filled me with joy. However, that feeling was quickly met with the fear of letting them down and in that moment all I could do was pray and trust that God had a good path for me no matter the outcome. About two weeks later, I found out I had been selected as part of this prestigious program, and I immediately accepted (after shedding a few tears of joy). I firmly believe that God placed me on this path for a reason—to break the generational pattern in my family of not attending college and to help my mom live the life she has always deserved by retiring her as soon as I am able.

As a first-generation student, I am determined to pave the way and ensure that future generations in my family do not face the same obstacles. My loved ones hold immense value in my life, and their support continues to drive me to overcome any challenge that comes my way. I hope to inspire my nieces and nephews to follow in my footsteps and pursue this same journey and I will certainly do my part in encouraging them to become future Longhorns. Receiving this scholarship and being part of this program is surreal, and I will forever be grateful for this life-changing opportunity.

Major
Finance

Other Academic Interests
Marketing

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
The opportunities offered by the Forty Acres Scholars Program are truly endless. I remember reading about it and knowing it was the kind of community that would invest in my growth both professionally and personally, and that has proven true to this day. This program is one of a kind; it not only provides financial support, but also surrounds you with people who genuinely care about your well-being and want to see you thrive in every aspect of your life.

What makes your scholar cohort unique?
If I could describe my cohort in one word, it would be laughter. Being around them brings a sense of joy and comfort, and I can always count on having a good time when they're around. I am incredibly proud of each of them.