Texas A&M University has offered seniors Marcus Avila, Naa Bruce, Ifeoluwa Obayan and Lauren Thornton an academic scholarship as part of The Century Scholars Program (CSP).

“We are fortunate that Texas A&M seeks out students from (here) to award these scholarships to,” AVID Site Coordinator Katrina Mabry-Smith said.

The program recognizes students at Century Scholar schools based on their leadership skills, academic merit, talents and honors.

“I was automatically considered when I sent in my application,” Thornton said.

Students are awarded $20,000 over four years, and a $1,000 Study Abroad Stipend.

“Receiving (this) scholarship makes me feel as though all the work I put into my education is finally paying off,” Avila said.

CSP provides academic support, hands-on contact with advisors, mentorships with faculty, freshmen seminars and an opportunity to serve as a Century Scholars Ambassador.

“I’ve spent the majority of my high school career doing my best academically, and this makes me thankful for all the opportunities I’ve been given,” Avila said.

Last year, there were five recipients that qualified for this award.

“I am hoping that many more of our seniors will receive this scholarship to help fund their college career,” Mabry-Smith said.

Mabry-Smith is Bruce’s AVID teacher.

“I am extremely proud of Naa because she’s not only smart and talented, but she is one of the most generous and committed students I’ve had the pleasure of teaching,” she said.

Thornton said that she feels honored to have been offered the scholarship.

“It is helpful because college is really expensive,” she said.

Mabry-Smith said that there are millions of dollars in scholarships, and students should take advantage and start applying.

She said, “I couldn’t be prouder of our Century Scholars, and I know that the sky is the limit for them and for all of our Wolves.”