For Judson Early College Academy senior Jocelyn Tamez, an ordinary day in class turned into a life-changing moment.
While sitting in her college preparation class, Tamez was surprised by her family, school staff, and a representative from the University of Texas at Austin. The unexpected visit quickly became a celebration as she learned she had been selected as a recipient of the prestigious UT Big Impact Scholarship.
“I heard about it, but I didn’t think I would get it,” Tamez said. “I was really excited and grateful.”
The Big Impact Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to making a difference. For Tamez, the honor reflects years of hard work and a clear sense of purpose.
This fall, she will attend UT Austin, where she plans to major in public health. She has also been selected for the Freshman Research Initiative, a program that provides students the opportunity to participate in hands-on research while earning college credit.
Tamez is driven by a passion to improve healthcare access, particularly for non-English-speaking patients.
“One of the things that really impacts me is the gap for patients who do not speak English,” she said. “That is something I have seen, and I want to help close that gap.”
Her interest in medicine has been shaped through her involvement in the Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy, a stipended biomedical research program hosted at UT Health San Antonio. Through the program, she conducted research on a neurobehavioral disorder over the past three summers, deepening her interest in neurology and the complexities of the brain.
“I have always been interested in how the brain works,” Tamez said. “Being able to understand people and help them through medicine is something I am passionate about.”
After completing her undergraduate studies, Tamez plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician, with the goal of making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all.
Judson ISD celebrates Jocelyn Tamez and this remarkable achievement as she prepares to take the next step toward making an impact in the field of healthcare.