Our Scholars
Maria Contreras
Maria Contreras is a graduate of Akins Early College High School in Austin, Texas. She was born and raised in Venezuela and immigrated to the United States in 2018. While at Akins, Maria interned at Indeed, started a Red Cross Club chapter, served as a high-ranking officer of Student Council and the National Honor Society, and was actively involved in the Code2College Software Engineering Leadership Program. Outside of school, Maria maintained a full-time job, served as her family’s translator, simultaneously taught herself and younger sister English, and helped care for her younger brother.
Maria is now attending Rice University with a double major in biomedical engineering and computer science, with intentions to improve the world with the power of science – and, empower other immigrant kids to do the same. In her own words, she is inspired by what she has overcome and wishes to enable other immigrant kids in understanding they are not defined by their current circumstances; but, by what they decide to make of them.
Bibi Wahida Taniwal
Bibi Wahida Taniwal is a graduate of Northeast Early College High School in Austin, Texas. She was born and raised in Afghanistan and immigrated to the United States in 2018. While at NECHS, Bibi worked with senior patients in a local hospital, served as the Vice President of NECHS’ Health Occupations Students of America chapter, and was engaged on the City of Austin’s Youth Climate Equity Council. She was also an active member of the National Honor Society and the Parent Teacher Students Association. Outside of school, Bibi maintained a full-time job and volunteered within the Afghan community of Austin by serving as a translator for refugees and helping with immigration paperwork, as needed.
Bibi is now attending the University of Texas at Austin and is majoring in public health with plans to attend medical school. She finds deep inspiration in her friends and classmates back in Afghanistan, who, in her own words, taught her the true meaning of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Drawing from her own experience, she intends to continue to be a voice for those who do not have one and work, tirelessly, to promote peace and justice wherever she can.