Posted on August 13, 2025 by KC Gonzalez
This year's Top Scholars are excited to join the Roadrunner family
This fall, the Honors College welcomes 10 incoming Top Scholars to UTSA, each selected for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership experience and dedication to community engagement.
The Top Scholar program is the university's premier merit-based scholarship, offering a comprehensive package that includes full tuition, fees, housing and a stipend — along with personalized academic support, leadership development and service-learning opportunities.
Top Scholars are part of a small, tight-knit cohort that benefits from close mentoring, access to undergraduate research, and tailored experiences that prepare them to become future leaders in their fields.
This newest class of scholars brings a variety of talents and perspectives to the university and will contribute to the continued excellence of the Honors College and broader university community.
Meet the Class of 2029 Top Scholars:
Zach Aussi
Tom C. Clark High School
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: San Antonio
Zoe Dou
Calming Storms Homeschool Academy
Major: Neuroscience
Hometown: San Antonio
Jessica Malakhova
Health Careers High School
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Hometown: Helotes
Alvin Philip
Legacy of Educational Excellence
Major: Neuroscience
Hometown: San Antonio
Edgardo Ramirez Perez
William J. Brennan High School
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: San Antonio
Maria Ricardo
William J. Brennan High School
Major: Biology
Hometown: San Antonio
Briana Sepulveda
Clear Springs High School
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Hometown: League City
Madison Strader
Los Fresnos High School
Major: Public Health
Hometown: Port Isabel
Andrea Thai
Jersey Village High School
Major: Biology
Hometown: Houston
Michaela Wilson
Rock Hill High School
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Frisco
Applications for the next class of Top Scholars will open September 1, with a deadline of December 1.
— KC Gonzalez
