Benjamin Martinez

PSJA T. Jefferson T-STEM Early College High School, Class of 2021

Associate Degree in Mathematics from South Texas College 

Plans to Attend: Rice University

What are your goals and aspirations?
I plan on graduating from Rice University and applying to law school to become a lawyer. Nobody in my family has pursued a graduate school level of education, yet PSJA has given me the confidence to do so. As an attorney, I want to represent the government or non-profit organizations committed to service. I aspire to be a mentor to anybody who is willing to do what it takes to realize their full potential.

Awards/Honors:
QuestBridge College Prep Scholar; QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship; The Gates Scholarship Finalist; Hispanic Scholarship Fund Finalist; CollegeBoard National Hispanic Scholar; RGV Border Patrol "Head of the Class" Award; STC President's Honor Roll; BPA 2nd Place State Qualifier Fundamental Word Processing; BPA 3rd Place State Alternate Podcast Production Team; BPA Local, Regional, and State Service Awards; Mock Trial Best Attorney and 4th Place State Alternates; UIL Number Sense, Calculator, and Mathematics Local Awards

How was your experience at PSJA?
When I made the decision to spend my four-year long high school experience at PSJA, I knew it would be amazing. PSJA ISD restored my confidence to do well academically in a collaborative learning environment. The student support services offered at PSJA T. Jefferson T-STEM ECHS, notably Ms. De Leon’s Go Center, are unparalleled and gave me valuable college admissions advice and financial aid application requirements. The culmination of the PSJA ISD experience resulted in me obtaining an associate degree, memorable high school experiences, and academic readiness going into college.

What has the PSJA Early College Program done for you?
With the help of the amazing teachers at PSJA T-STEM and South Texas College, I was able to graduate college with an associate degree before graduating high school. It’s a unique opportunity that wouldn’t have been possible without the resources provided by PSJA. The program allowed me to decide what associate degree program I wanted to pursue as early as freshman year high school. It has allowed me to take rigorous college-level classes, helping me decide what I want to continue throughout my university studies and beyond.

What would you say to your PSJA Family?
The PSJA family goes above and beyond, every year to help thousands of students like me pursue their dreams. I’m incredibly grateful and proud to be a part of this outstanding community. Thank you everyone for your continued support.