Meet Salome

Meet the remarkable Salome Diaz, a shining example of determination and academic excellence. Hailing from the vibrant community of Little Village, Salome embodies the spirit of resilience and aspiration. As a proud member of the Murphy Scholar Class of 2024, she is on a trajectory to success that defies any obstacles in her path. Currently enrolled at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, Salome is not just a student; she is a beacon of inspiration, representing the potential for achievement that lies within each Murphy Scholar. In this blog, we delve into Salome's journey, her experiences, and the impact of the Murphy Scholarship on her educational pursuits. 

Q: How did you and your family first learn about DMSF?
A: I attended KIPP Ascend middle school as well as High Jump. Both of these organizations knew about DMSF, and both encouraged me to apply.

Q: Tell us about your family.
A: My family consists of my mother and I!

Q: What prompted you to apply to become a Murphy Scholar?
A: In middle school I knew about private and boarding schools, I really wanted to attend one, and I have always cared about my academics. When I learned about DMSF, i was told they could help me go to a school with more challenging classes and it could potentially be a boarding school!

​Q: Why is receiving a good education important to you?
A: I want to be able to walk across my high school and college stage for my mother. She has inspired me to work hard and never give up. I have goals and aspirations that I want to achieve and I know how important education is in this journey.

Q: What extracurriculars are you a part of?
A: I am part of my school’s Yearbook club, Chess club, And campus ministry club. I have also been in the Schools Soccer and tennis team for two years. This November, I will be joining the Bowling team!

Q: What is your favorite memory or accomplishment in high school?
A: Being able to make an announcement in front of my whole school. I use to be a very timid person, and DMSF helped me learn to advocate for myself and gain pride in who I am.

Q: What DMSF programs have you participated in and how have you benefitted from them?
A: Caddying. I love caddying. It is a great job opportunity that keeps me active and teaches me many lessons. But it also potentially carves a pathway to the Chick Evans Scholarship.

Q: What have you learned about yourself during high school? How do you think you've grown from freshman year to the person you are today?
A: During high school I have been able to learn more about my self, my virtues, and most importantly my passions. I have learned that I am a leader and passionate about learning and exploring new things. From my freshman year it’s now i have definitely developed a strong sense of perseverance. Even when things got hard, I knew I was trying my best.

Q: What are you looking forward to after graduation?
A: I am excited to see how my life will roll out, and of course college!!! I know wherever I go I am meant to be, and will help me become the best version of myself.

Q: Looking ahead, what do you see yourself doing as a career? What fields are you interested in?
A: I am interested in Civil Engineering. I hope to explore all concentrations but I know I love creating and math.

Q: To you, what does it mean to be a Murphy Scholar?
Being a Murphy Scholar means being able to reach my dreams. Not being contained to my background and being able to break barriers and open doors for myself.​