How Promise @ San Jac changes lives: Emily Garcia
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, Emily 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.
This scholarship paves the way to higher education by covering tuition, books, and supplies for up to three years. As a last-dollar scholarship, it bridges the financial gap for in-district high school graduates after 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," Emily 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.
Emily 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, in her words, "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."
Emily first learned about the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship through announcements during her senior year at Northshore 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," Michael said.
The application process was straightforward—Michael and Emily completed it together in just one day. For prospective students considering the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship, Emily's advice is clear and simple.
"It is worth it. San Jac might not be your first choice, but 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."
Michael 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 number one priority."
Learn more about the Promise @San Jac Scholarship
