Nimitz High School senior Lexie Santoya has wanted to attend Stanford University since seventh grade, and she’s currently preparing to turn her dream into a reality. Lexie, like other seniors across the district, is excited to experience a somewhat normal senior year. 

“I’m looking forward to pep rallies, homecoming, prom and graduation,” she says. 

Among the many events taking place this year is Irving ISD Goes to College Night. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 21, from 7 to 8:30 PM at Singley Academy and will showcase more than 100 colleges and universities from across the country. 

“Students will learn more about colleges they are interested in as well as get acquainted with new colleges that have the programs they are looking for,” adds Nimitz High School College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) Coach Lakisha Parish-Lias. 

Seniors and their parents will get the chance to speak one-on-one with college representatives to learn about admissions, financial aid opportunities, housing and more. For Lexie, this will be an opportunity to get a jumpstart on her plans for the future, and she encourages her peers to do the same. 

“Preparing for college now is important since it’s a brand-new experience,” says Lexie. “The more you prepare now, the more at ease you’ll feel when the time comes to face the unknown – college.” 

While only a senior in high school, Lexie has already accomplished so much. Since her freshman year, she’s served as the basketball team manager and participated in the debate club, student council (which she’s now the president of), academic decathlon, the cheerleading team and DECA. Due to Lexie’s participation in DECA, she’s also been able to work on launching a nonprofit for homeless who struggle with addiction. 

“Lexie is a stand-out scholar that has big dreams and big goals, and I see her doing everything she can to achieve them,” says Parish-Lias about the star student. “Every encounter with Lexie is a breath of fresh air, and I’m proud that she’s a Nimitz Viking.”

Lexie plans to continue her passion for helping others by becoming a lawyer, working with her nonprofit organization and eventually becoming a congresswoman. 

To jumpstart your college career like Lexie, visit IrvingISD.net/CollegeNight for more information.