From a tiny Panhandle town to UT Austin: How the Terry Scholarship changed my life 🤠

Goben

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Feb 15, 2026
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I'm still crying happy tears as I write this. A few weeks ago, I was sitting in my dorm room at UT Austin, watching the Tower light up in honor of the Terry Foundation, and I had to pinch myself. How did a girl from a rural town in the Texas Panhandle end up here, with my entire college education paid for? 🥹

Let me take you back to April 2024. I had interviewed for the Terry Foundation Scholarship in Dallas after a six-hour drive one way. I walked out of that interview feeling absolutely crushed. I fumbled my words, felt awkward, and was sure I had blown my only chance at affording my dream school. When I saw the email with my results, I braced for disappointment. Instead, I opened it and discovered I had been awarded the scholarship. In an instant, my whole life changed .

For those who don't know, the Terry Foundation is the largest private scholarship provider in Texas. They offer full-ride scholarships at 11 public universities across the state, covering up to the full cost of attendance for eight semesters . But it's not just about the money—it's about community, mentorship, and believing in students like me.

I'll be honest: even after receiving this Texas scholarship, I struggled to feel like I deserved it. Imposter syndrome is real, especially when you come from a small town and suddenly find yourself surrounded by brilliant minds. But I'm slowly learning that someone saw something in me worth investing in, and that means I belong here just as much as anyone .

For any Texas high school seniors out there: apply for every Texas scholarship you can find. The Terry application requires being in the top 25% of your class, demonstrating leadership and community service, and showing financial need . It's competitive, but it's SO worth it.

Has anyone else received a Terry or other Texas scholarship? I'd love to connect with fellow Texans on this journey!
 
The Tower lighting up for YOU? That's the kind of moment movies are made of. You absolutely deserve this—someone saw something special in you, and now you're thriving. Fellow Texan here, and I'm so proud of you. Hook 'em! 🤘
 
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