Del Valle High School senior Nia Goode has always dreamed of making a difference in her community. Now, thanks to The University of Texas at Austin Impact Scholarship, she’s one step closer to that goal as she prepares to join the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the UT Austin School of Nursing in Fall 2025.
Born and raised in the Austin area, Goode has made a lasting impact at her high school and in her community—qualities that earned her an Impact Scholarship.
These scholarships honor incoming students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, perseverance and a strong commitment to both school and community.
She serves as a class officer and is active in student council, the National Honor Society, the Red Cross Club and a women’s empowerment group. Beyond the classroom, she volunteers with the teen leadership organization Top Teens of America.
The surprise scholarship announcement was made in March 2025, during a South by Southwest event at the Hook ’Em House.
“I was told I was at the event to answer a few questions about being admitted to UT,” Goode said. “The confusion was evident on my face when I, and two other girls, were called up to the stage, and our accolades were read off before the big checks were brought out.
“It was one of the most unforgettable moments of my life,” she continued.
For Goode and her family, the scholarship is a symbol of more than just financial relief, she said it’s a sign that her hard work is paying off and that others have recognized the effort she’s put in.
“It eases the burden on my family and allows me to focus entirely on my education during college,” she added.
Goode chose the School of Nursing for its strong academic reputation and close-knit learning environment.
“I love that I’ll be surrounded by a tight-knit group of people who are all working toward the same goal as me,” she added. “I am most excited about connecting with my fellow Longhorns on campus. I am also excited to start building the skills that will one day allow me to care for people at their most vulnerable stages.”
Her passion for nursing was sparked early on.
“I was first inspired by my elementary school nurse,” Goode said. “She was always so kind, calm and helpful—especially when I wasn't feeling my best. Watching her care for others made me realize at a young age that I wanted to make people feel safe and supported the same way she did.”
She hopes to use her future nursing career to serve the Austin community.
“I aspire to be a nurse who listens attentively, cares deeply and makes every patient feel seen and heard,” Goode said. “Through nursing, I aim to give back to the Austin community by serving as a source of comfort, education and support.”
For Goode, being part of the next generation of Longhorn nurses means more than academic success.
“It means striving to be not just a skilled professional but someone who truly makes a difference in people’s lives,” she said. “I’ll be wearing my burnt orange scrubs with pride.”