Texas Valedictorian Wins Full Ride to Study Skin Cures

An 18-year-old valedictorian from Monahans, Texas, just won one of the state's most competitive scholarships after years of juggling leadership roles, academics, and a powerful personal mission.

Rylee Danyel Sides earned a full-ride Terry Foundation scholarship to the University of Texas at San Antonio this spring. She was one of just 267 students selected from 534 candidates across Texas, chosen for her academic excellence, leadership, and compelling story about why education matters to her.

Rylee's high school résumé reads like three students combined into one. She led the drama club and women's service organization, served as senior class treasurer, played flute in concert band, twirled competitively at the state level, and held vice president duties in the National Honor Society.

Between all those commitments, she still graduated with an associate's degree with honors before even receiving her high school diploma. She also competed in UIL competitions for copy editing and science while serving on both student and superintendent councils.

But her achievements aren't just about collecting awards. Rylee has a clear vision for her future that goes beyond herself.

"I hope in the future I can find cures to skin diseases and help those struggling mentally from their skin issues," Rylee shared. She plans to major in biology and minor in psychology at UTSA before pursuing medical school to become a pediatric dermatologist.

The Ripple Effect

The Terry Foundation scholarship does more than cover tuition. It surrounds scholars with a network of thousands of alumni, offers study abroad opportunities, and removes financial barriers that might otherwise derail talented students like Rylee.

Since its creation, the foundation has invested over $396 million in Texas students. This coming academic year alone, it will award $24.9 million to about 1,100 scholars across 11 Texas public universities.

Every Terry Scholar earns their spot through a 30-minute interview where they share their story and goals. Panels of Terry alumni and current scholars dedicate thousands of hours to finding students who will use education to create positive change.

Rylee credits her favorite teacher, Jessica Zeigler, and her parents Angela and Corey Sides for supporting her journey. Now she's looking forward to diving deeper into biology and making friends in her scholar community.

From a small West Texas town to a full scholarship at a major university, Rylee's story shows what happens when talent meets opportunity and determination.