Jacksonville student earns scholarship from U.T. Austin

High school senior Juliana Salazar was presented the Impact Scholarship from the University of Texas – Austin this week. The scholarship totals $48,000, with $12,000 allotted each year for four years.

Salazar said she had seen information about the Impact Scholarship on social media but had never paid much attention to it. When she heard she was the recipient, Salazar said she was shocked and didn’t really believe it at first.

“It means a lot,” she said. “It’s an honor.”

Salazar’s parents – Maria Ana and Martin Salazar – were not present when she was initially informed about the scholarship.

“I called them,” she said. “My dad was very surprised and didn’t know what to say. My mom, she started crying.”

Juliana Salazar said she had already been discussing with her father how much she would need to pay for college.

“It was kind of a worry,” she said.

The oldest of eight siblings, Salazar didn’t want to place financial burdens on her parents.

The Impact Scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate leadership, have proven academic success, need financial assistance and who show perseverance and commitment to their schools and communities.

“I set my foundation without really knowing I could get this opportunity,” Salazar said, referencing her school and community involvement.

In school, she served as captain of the Jacksonville High School Majorettes, is a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club and plays the flute in the high school band.

Her involvement in the community is mainly through her church, Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. A lifelong member of the church, Salazar has assisted her mom at booths during festivals hosted by the church and has been involved in Faith Formation, similar to Sunday school.

“She is truly deserving,” said College and Career Advisor Sarah Stephens.

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JISD Superintendent Brad Stewart, Jacksonville High School Principal Jodi Alderete and College and Career Advisor Sarah Stephens pose with Juliana Salazar after she received a scholarship to UT Austin.

Salazar said she had considered both Baylor and U.T. Austin, stating she became more interested in U.T. Austin during her junior year.

“I visited the school around September and I really like the campus. I want to go into law, and I know they have a really good law program,” she said.

While law is a rather broad field, Salazar said she intends to focus on immigration law.

Salazar realizes moving to Austin will require some adjustments, but she is looking forward to exploring the city.

“I’m really excited,” she said.

Superintendent Brad Stewart said the scholarship was a testament to Salazar’s hard work, character and academic excellence.

“This recognition not only honors her achievements, but also reflects the caliber of students we are privileged to support,” he said. “This has truly been a year of success for this group of seniors, and we look forward to celebrating with all of them May 16 at the Tomato Bowl.”