For Ravens softball player Emily Garcia, the path to higher education was made possible through athletic opportunity and financial support. In her third year at San Jacinto College, Emily has found an academic and athletic home, thanks to the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship.

Recruited to San Jac’s softball program by coaches Kelly Saenz and Kelsey Walters, Garcia carefully considered her college options. The College’s proximity to home was a bonus, but what truly influenced her decision to enroll was the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship.

Ravens softball player Emily Garcia

This last-dollar scholarship covers in-district high school graduates’ tuition, books, and supplies for up to three years, kicking in after all other forms of financial aid have been applied.

“Promise meant that I could go to school and not worry about how much it would cost, and it meant that my dad did not have to stress over money,” Garcia said.

Her father, Michael Garcia, echoed her sentiments.

“The scholarship meant we didn’t have to struggle to send my daughter to school. It meant a lot knowing that she could go to college and earn her associate degree debt-free,” he said.

Garcia is currently pursuing an associate degree in education — following a long-held dream of becoming a teacher.

“Something about helping children grow and learn makes my heart so happy,” she said. “I want to become a first-grade teacher and create a safe classroom environment for my future students. No matter how hard things are at home, I want them to know that they are safe and loved when they are in my classroom.”

Her time at San Jac has been “overwhelmingly positive.”

“I’ve had a lot of help when I needed it with my academics,” she said. “In the iConnect Center, the staff helps read over papers, and there’s someone available for every subject. This support system has been crucial to my success.”

Father and daughter at a softball game

Garcia first learned about the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship through announcements during her senior year at North Shore Senior High School and quickly shared the news with her family.

“When my daughter told me about the Promise program, we both agreed it was the best option for us,” her father said.

The application process was straightforward: Dad and daughter completed it together in just one day. For prospective students considering the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship, Garcia’s advice is clear and simple.

“You have to sit back and think about how paying for college will affect your family,” she said. “The Promise Scholarship is so worth it, and you can earn your associate degree without debt.”

Her father shares the same enthusiasm in his advice to other parents.

“Take the opportunity. If you think college isn’t in the budget but want your child to attend, this is the best option,” he said. “One of the main points I bring up when they ask why Emily is at San Jac is Promise and, of course, softball. Getting a good education is my No. 1 priority.”

Learn more about the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship.

By Melissa Trevizo