STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University pre-nursing major Trinity Leal has been granted a three-week study abroad trip to Costa Rica this summer as a member of the elite Texas Leadership Scholars program.
Leal is a Dean’s List honor student from Stephenville with aspirations of becoming an ER travel nurse. She’s one of 14 students chosen from 500 Texas Leadership Scholars statewide to make the trip.
She will be in Costa Rica from May 25-June 9, earn credit in the Women Entrepreneurship and Sustainability course taught by instructors at the Universidad Veritas, and spend time in the local culture and ecosystem.
“This opportunity will be life-changing,” she said. “It’s something I have dreamed of for a long time. As a first-generation student, I continue to pursue my big dreams to be an example for others. Texas Leadership Scholars has led me to the most amazing friends, my job and wonderful experiences like what I am soon to have in Costa Rica. I am blessed and forever thankful for everyone who has poured any amount of time into me and my future.”
Leal’s award exceeds $5,000 and covers her flights, transportation, lodging, two weekend excursions and meals.
The Texas Leadership Scholars program began in fall 2022. Participants are selected through a partnership with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and receive board-designated tuition, fees, and room and board for all four years of their undergraduate education.
Dr. Elizabeth Wallace, Assistant Vice President for the Lozano-Long Division for Global, Community and First-Gen Initiatives, heads Tarleton’s program.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.