Mrs. Yvonne L. Moss Scholarship

Attending South Oak Cliff High School has been a transformative experience for me, inspiring me to pursue higher education and providing me with the tools I need to make a difference in my community. As a 17-year-old senior female named Mariana Zepeda, my experience at South Oak Cliff High School has been filled with both academic obstacles and personal growth, turning me into the person I am today. The unwavering passion of the educators at South Oak Cliff High School has been one of the most inspiring elements in my decision to seek higher education. From committed teachers who go above and beyond to assure our academic success to helpful counselors who lead us through the college application process, the faculty at South Oak Cliff High School have had a significant impact on my educational goals. Their conviction in my abilities and commitment to developing our capabilities developed in me a deep respect for learning and a desire to thrive beyond high school. Furthermore, the diverse and lively environment at South Oak Cliff High School has expanded my perspectives and fueled my desire to pursue new options in further education. South Oak Cliff High School, a melting pot of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, has exposed me to a variety of perspectives and ideas, forcing me to think critically and compassionately about the world around me. This rich tapestry of diversity has not only enhanced my educational experience, but also expanded my awareness of the value of inclusivity and social justice. In addition to impressing me academically, South Oak Cliff High School has given me several opportunities to give back to my community and make a positive difference. As a member of numerous clubs and groups at the school, I've had the opportunity to participate in community service projects and initiatives geared at uplifting and assisting those in need. Whether it's working at local food banks, organizing educational programs, or participating in community clean-ups, I'm committed to using my time and abilities to improve the lives of others. Furthermore, I have embraced the position of mentor and role model for younger students, providing guidance and support as they traverse their own academic and personal journeys. By sharing my experiences and advocating for the value of education, I hope to inspire my peers to follow their aspirations and attain their full potential. I am devoted to building a culture of compassion, resilience, and excellence within the South Oak Cliff High School community by serving in leadership positions in student clubs and extracurricular activities. Overall, my experience at South Oak Cliff High School has pushed me to seek higher education while also providing me with the skills, values, and motivation to make a significant contribution to my community. As I begin the next chapter of my academic journey, I am appreciative for the lessons taught and the relationships formed at South Oak Cliff High School, and I am eager to continue aiming for excellence and making a difference in the world around me.

South Oak Cliff High School was a great experience for me and being a part of the collegiate program made it even better. Knowing that I would graduate high school with my Associate's Degree made me ask myself, "Why not go further?". My school always painted the image of chasing my dreams and not stopping or quitting until I get there. Every adult in my entire high school career has encouraged me and pushed me to do everything that they know and I know I am capable of. My first high school experience that started the shaping of who I am today was being the only student in the collegiate history at South Oak Cliff High School to pass my TSIs on the first try, and the only student to pass the Math test in the Summer Bridge Program. Receiving accolades and acknowledgments for these accomplishments helped me so much and built my confidence going into high school. There were many other experiences such as trying out for the soccer team for the first time in my life and starting junior varsity and ending the season on Varsity. Running for student council this year was a great experience from the campaigning to the speech and watching the polls move up and down. Although I did not win, it was a tough race and it taught me that no matter what the situation around you is, persistence is key. I knew before I became a high school student that I would be a first-generation college grad, and that stayed with me up until now and will be with me until I graduate college. Being a smart student has been kind of challenging, but worth it. I have done many things to contribute to my community and to other parts of the world. It started on my 11th birthday, I was at school and asked my dad if I was able to collect clothes and shoes from students if we could send them to the children in Africa and he said yes, so I did. After that day, I started volunteering more. I fed the homeless, did a neighborhood food and school supply drive, and I volunteer at churches. I started my own tutoring service at school for the freshman, so that they would have help and be able to pass their classes. I believe that all these activities will help me be a great addition to society as an adult and be very successful in a few years.