Scholarship Recipient Highlight: Natalia Solis

How has being a recipient of this scholarship influenced your perspective on higher education?

Being a recipient of this scholarship has motivated me to continue getting a higher education to pursue the things I want to accomplish. It is a privilege to study, and many people don’t have the opportunity to do that, which is why I am forever grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship.

Were there any challenges you faced as a first- generation scholar and how did the scholarship support you in overcoming them?

As a first-generation scholar, I needed clarification about the process of submitting admission applications and how to deal with financial aid. The scholarship helped me overcome these problems because it helped with a lot of relief from financial aid; it also reassured me that there are always people around to help me, regardless of my challenges.

In what ways do you hope to pay forward the opportunities you’ve received through this scholarship to future generations or within your community?

I plan to repay the opportunity I have received through this scholarship by putting in all my effort towards school and using this as my motivation to keep growing academically and as a person. I want to be able to volunteer and help others who feel as though they are struggling as well. This scholarship has really driven me to become a better version of myself and help others just as it has helped me.

How has the scholarship influenced your career aspirations and what impact do you hope to make in our chosen field?

This scholarship has financially supported me, and because of this, I am able to study as a Biology major with a pre-med focus. I will make an impact as an OBGYN or Cardiothoracic surgeon by helping people get back to their lives without worrying about any health problems. My goal is to impact other people’s lives and give them the best healthy lifestyle they can have.

How do you navigate the balance between academic commitments and personal responsibilities and how has the scholarship played a role in this?

I can balance my academic work by focusing on that during the weekdays and staying ahead of any work that is coming up. Doing this gives me the chance to balance my personal responsibilities on the weekends when I can go to work and spend time with my loved ones. This scholarship allows me to do this because it gave me the support and privilege to study at my school, and I am forever thankful for that.

Looking ahead, what advice would you give to Wingstop Team members that are future 1st generation scholars who aspire to follow a similar path?

I would tell them to make connections with people in their work and school environment that will help them achieve the goals they have in life. Always support others in their success and work towards what you want to do, regardless of what other people have to say. Focus on your relationships with your close ones and let them support you so you can achieve the dreams you have in your life.

Is there any one you would like to recognize and thank for their support during your post secondary educational journey and how did their guidance shape your path? (parents, grand parents, mentors, etc.)

I want to thank my parents for their support during my post-secondary education. They have always been extremely supportive and have told me to follow my dreams no matter what anyone else says. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am now. I am extremely thankful to have them in my life for always pushing me to become the best version of myself and always believing in me.

Feel free to share additional comments about your experience or a fun fact.

I am attending Carthage College, and I am incredibly thankful to be able to get a higher education to pursue my career plans. Most of all, I am super grateful I still get to work at Wingstop and keep in touch with my community back home.

Click here to learn more about the Morrison Family Scholarship Program.