When his great-grandmother was facing serious health complications, Magallanez found himself inspired by the compassion of her hospice care team.
“I began to have an admiration toward health care workers for their ability to share hope with people during the toughest times,” Magallanez said. “Now, I aspire to be a beacon for others during hard times.”
That calling led him to the St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program—the largest health care scholarship in Texas.
The program, which provides up to $60,000 in financial aid, professional mentorship, mental health support and a network of peers, is open to Central Texas high school seniors pursuing health care careers.
For Magallanez, it’s been nothing short of life-changing.
About Magallanez
Magallanez, a first-generation college student and graduate of Lockhart High School said the Neal Kocurek Scholarship gave him more than financial help; it gave him confidence.
“When I got the email that I was going to be a recipient, I was so happy to tell my family,” Magallanez said. “It might have been the first time that I thought to myself that college was going to be a feasible dream.”
His goal is to help bridge language barriers in health care.
“My grandmother is part of the population that cannot speak English, and she is constantly going to doctors’ offices for various complications that she has,” Magallanez said. “Her eyes light up after she has a doctor who can speak with her. I want to be that kind of doctor who can help their patients leave with a spark and have them talk to their grandchildren about their experience with me.”
How does mentorship make a difference?
One of the most impactful parts of the program is mentorship.
Scholars are matched with professionals who understand their goals and can provide one-on-one guidance throughout their college journey.
“My mentor, Dr. Brynna Connor, truly cares about my journey and makes a great effort to answer my questions and point me toward the right direction,” Magallanez said. “She is a great person who works around her busy schedule to plan calls, research my problems and get back to me whenever she can. I am glad to have such an irreplaceable and unique opportunity.”
The importance of community
Before joining the program, Magallanez thought pursuing a health care career was a solo journey. Becoming a St. David’s Neal Kocurek scholar helped him see the power of community.
“The Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program helped me change my perspective by showing me that everyone is actively helping each other to reach a common goal,” Magallanez said.
Magallanez even had the chance to share his story at Toast of the Town, an annual fundraiser for the St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program, where 100% of proceeds go to benefit the program and foster the next generation of health care leaders.
“I was nervous for both speeches I was scheduled to give, ... but when I got there and conversed with the people, I was greeted with nothing but kindness and sincerity to help younger generations,” Magallanez said. “I am glad to be a part of a community with such amazing people.”
His advice for future applicants
For students thinking about applying, Magallanez said not to overthink it.
“Don’t worry about having experience in the medical field. Don’t try to be perfect throughout the application, and let your character shine whenever there is a chance to write,” Magallanez said. “The team that supports the scholarship program is so incredible, and they can see the vision from a mile away. ... Whether chosen or not, [applicants] took a step towards their future, and that shows more about their character and the drive behind their eyes than they might think.”
Applications for the St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship are now open.
High school seniors from Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson counties who plan to attend college in Texas and pursue health care careers are eligible to apply.
To confirm eligibility, click here. If all requirements are met, you will receive an email to begin the application, which is due by January 2, 2026.
Email [email protected] to learn more.
The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
