When Beyonca Mitchell received her high school diploma on Saturday from Braden River High School, she was already a college graduate.
Thanks to hard work and dual-enrollment, Beyonca also earned her Associates Degree from State College of Florida.
But that's not all.
The 18-year old is now headed for Atlanta where she will be studying Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science at Georgia Tech.
Her education, room and board, transportation, books and fees, etc. are entirely covered - and she will receive extensive support throughout her college years.
Beyonca Mitchell is one of 300 outstanding high school seniors who earned The Gates Scholarship this year, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The highly selective, last-dollar scholarship funds the full cost of attendance that's not already covered by financial aid.
More than 37,000 students applied to become a member of the Class of 2022's elite group of young leaders.
According to The Gates Scholarship, ideal candidates have an outstanding academic record, in the top 10% of their graduating class; demonstrate leadership ability through community service or extracurricular activities; and exceptional personal success skills such as motivation and perseverance.
Besides funding for school, Beyonca will receive a wide range of support services while at Georgia Tech, including: mentoring, leadership development, wellness, career guidance, internships, job opportunities and more.
We're so proud to shine the spotlight on this fantastic Manatee County student for all her success in the past and future!