Si Se Puede Scholarship Award

Funded by

Perla Acevedo

Eligibility Requirements

Education Level:

High school junior or senior

Background:

First-generation

State:

New Mexico or Texas

Race/Ethnicity:

Hispanic or Latino

Education Level:

Background:

State:

Race/Ethnicity:

High school junior or senior

First-generation

New Mexico or Texas

Hispanic or Latino

Everyone deserves a chance to thrive, no matter what background they come from.

First-generation students, while often disadvantaged by their circumstances, have the unique ability to break cycles and create better lives for themselves and their families for generations to come. First-generation students are forced to navigate the world of higher education without parental guidance but can achieve all of their goals and more through perseverance.

This scholarship seeks to support first-generation students as they prepare to transition from high school to college.

Any high school junior or senior in New Mexico or Texas who will be a first-generation college student may apply for this scholarship if they’re Hispanic or Latino, but Mexican/Mexican American students are preferred.

To apply, tell us about yourself and how you’ll make a difference in the world.

Selection Criteria:

Perseverance, Drive, Grit

Scholarships for High School Seniors Scholarships for High School Juniors Scholarships for Minorities High School Scholarships Scholarships for Hispanic Students Texas Scholarships New Mexico Scholarships First-Generation Scholarships Essay Scholarships

Published January 30, 2023

Essay Topic

Please tell us about yourself and how you plan to make a positive impact with your career.

400–600 words

Winners and Finalists

June 2023

Winners

Anna Sanchez

University of New Mexico-Main Campus

Santa Teresa, NM

Finalists

Tony Sanchez

Texas State University

Winning Application

Anna Sanchez

University of New Mexico-Main CampusSanta Teresa, NM

As a first-generation Hispanic woman i’m excited to embark on a career in architecture. Through my experiences, ranging from participating in NJROTC to pursuing hobbies and sports, I have developed a strong sense of discipline, determination, and a desire to make a positive impact. With a 3.7 GPA and a deep passion for creativity, I am confident that my career in architecture will allow me to contribute to society and leave a lasting mark on the world. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the power of architecture to shape our surroundings and influence our lives. The ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that can inspire, bring people together, and improve their quality of life has always captivated my imagination. Architecture combines my passion for design and my desire to make a tangible impact on the world, which is why I have chosen it as my career path. My four years in NJROTC have instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, dedication, and attention to detail. These qualities are essential in architecture, where every line, every material, and every space must be carefully considered to create a harmonious and functional design. My experience in NJROTC has taught me the importance of teamwork, leadership, and adaptability, skills that will be invaluable in collaborating with clients, engineers, and other professionals in the field. Maintaining a 3.7 GPA demonstrates my commitment to academic excellence and my ability to handle the intellectual challenges that come with pursuing a career in architecture. I have taken courses in mathematics, physics, and art to develop a well-rounded foundation for my future studies. These subjects have equipped me with the necessary skills to analyze and solve complex problems, which will be crucial when designing structures that are safe, sustainable, and innovative. Architecture is not just about aesthetics however; it also carries a significant social responsibility. I believe that buildings should reflect the values of the communities they serve and contribute positively to the environment. I am particularly interested in sustainable design and hope to incorporate eco-friendly practices into my work. By integrating renewable energy systems, utilizing sustainable materials, and designing for energy efficiency, I aim to create spaces that minimize environmental impact and promote a greener future. I plan to use architecture as a means to design spaces that foster inclusivity, promote social interaction, and enhance the well-being of individuals. I am keen on working on projects that address urban issues, such as affordable housing, community centers, and educational facilities, as I believe these are key components in creating thriving and equitable communities. By combining creativity, discipline, and a sense of social responsibility, I hope to create spaces that not only inspire but also contribute to the betterment of society. As a first-generation Hispanic woman, I am excited to break barriers and inspire others from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams. With architecture as my tool, I aim to leave a lasting legacy that positively shapes the world for generations to come.