Six SAISD seniors among 2019 Dell Scholars
Six SAISD seniors have been selected to become part of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation’s 2019 Dell Scholars cohort. Travis Early College High School’s Judge-Anthony Rios, Nayeli Arias, Regina Rivas, and Zion Minor along with Young Women’s Leadership Academy’s Angela Hernandez and Emily Garcia are among the 500 students from across the nation selected for this life-changing opportunity.
“Being a Dell Scholar gives students a level of distinction that will help them continue their education at highly prestigious institutions or access successful professions, connect them with other successful Dell Scholars who are college students or graduates, and almost guarantee they achieve a college degree that opens them to choice-filled lives,” said Dr. Eduardo “Lalo” Sesatty, director, SAISD Postsecondary Readiness and Access. “The Dell Scholar distinction, beyond bragging rights, means a pathway to a choice-filled life.”
The Dell Scholars program targets low-income, highly motivated students who demonstrate the drive to succeed despite personal obstacles.
“The fact is, our students have historically faced financial, academic, and life barriers that prevent them from getting a college degree at higher rates,” said Sesatty. “As a Dell Scholar, our students get a $20,000 scholarship, a laptop, and access to advisors who can help students navigate and overcome life barriers.”
Not only does the financial portion of the award help students with various education expenses but Dell Scholars are also provided with key supports to help them obtain a college degree including confidential counseling, financial aid coaching, work-life solutions, and support staff with similar experiences.
According to the Dell Scholars website, Dell Scholars are 25 percent more likely to earn their bachelor's degrees within four to six years of high school graduation compared to students of similar socioeconomic backgrounds. Eighty percent of past Dell Scholars have attained their bachelor’s degree within six years. While the cost of college rises, only half of Dell Scholars graduate with any debt, and the average debt for those who borrow is less than $15,000, which is approximately half the national average.
Below is where SAISD Dell Scholars are currently planning on attending college:
Travis Early College High School
Judge-Anthony Rios - Texas A&M University
Nayeli Arias - University of Texas at Austin
Regina Rivas - Texas A&M University at San Antonio or Sam Houston State University
Zion Minor - Texas Tech University
Young Women’s Leadership Academy
Angela Hernandez - Texas Lutheran University
Emily Garcia - Undecided
