Class of 2030
 Gavin Bryant graduated from Mountain Vista High School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, as an AP Scholar with Honors title. He was drawn to SMU for its pre-med track, university culture, small class sizes, and the wealth of research opportunities in Dallas. A four-year varsity soccer captain and First Team Academic All-State honoree, he competed at a nationally recognized, elite club soccer level and is a recipient of an Air Force Academy Congressional Nomination. He is an avid traveler who loves skiing in the Rockies and fly fishing in his free time. Gavin is excited to pursue medicine and leadership on the Hilltop. |
 Gianlucca Cordero-Marrero is originally from Dorado, Puerto Rico, and comes to SMU as a graduate of the School for the Talented and Gifted in Dallas, Texas, where he was a National Merit Commended Scholar, a member of the National Honor Society, and Math Club co-captain. Gianlucca is as passionate about discovering underlying meaning in numbers as he is about learning languages and understanding world cultures. Drawn to SMU’s interdisciplinary opportunities, he plans to double major in statistical science and markets and culture while also studying Chinese. Presently, he speaks Spanish, English, advanced Portuguese, intermediate Korean, and intermediate Italian. A pop music fan, he loves artists like ABBA, aespa, Annalisa, Dreamcatcher, Faouzia, and Rosalía. His favorite book is Cien años de soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude); his favorite show is Friends. |
 Audrey Franks is from Dallas, Texas, where she graduated magna cum laude from Highland Park High School. At SMU, she plans to major in Biochemistry on the Pre-Health track. Audrey chose SMU for its interdisciplinary studies, research opportunities, and school spirit. In high school, Audrey played lacrosse, was a member of NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, and SNHS. Audrey also interned at Scottish Rite for Children, where she shadowed in multiple departments of the hospital. Outside of school, she loves going on walks, shopping, and reading fantasy novels, such as The Poppy War. |
 Mayra Gomez is from Dallas, Texas, where she graduated with honors and ranked in the top five percent at UME Preparatory Academy. She served as a peer tutor for the National Honor Society and the public relations officer in the student government. She was also part of her school’s competition theatre cast, where she received awards for All-Star Cast and Honorable Mention. Her academic awards include the Superintendent Award, the Character Award, and the Dallas College Senior Vice Provost’s Honor Recognition. At SMU, she will major in biological sciences on the pre-health track to pursue her goal of becoming a physician assistant. She chose SMU for its connections, small class sizes, and tight-knit community. She enjoys reading, singing, and living life to the fullest. |
| Whitney Gross is from Dallas, Texas, and is double majoring in biology and international studies. She chose SMU for its amazing traditions and research opportunities. Whitney graduated as a National Merit Finalist, AP Scholar with distinction, and a member of multiple honors societies. She was captain of the soccer team at Highland Park High School and played club soccer for one of the top 8 teams in the country. She was President of the Champions Cup, a soccer event for kids with disabilities, and volunteers as a Patient Pal at Children’s Health. In her free time, Whitney enjoys watching and playing sports, traveling, and watching reality TV shows like Survivor. |
 Rudy Haddad graduated Summa Cum Laude from Central High School in San Angelo, Texas. He is proud to attend SMU as a second-generation Mustang and plans to pursue a degree in biological Sciences on the pre-health track. In high school, Rudy was an AP Scholar, and stayed busy with NHS, FCCLA, tennis, and football. Rudy also founded and served as President for the Santa Rita Service Club, a young men's organization for which he continues to serve as an ambassador. Rudy chose SMU for its small class sizes and research opportunities and looks forward to being part of the FYRE program. In his spare time, Rudy enjoys traveling, playing sports, watching movies, and spending time with his friends. |
 Nico Heard graduated from Poway High School in Poway, California and plans to major in biology and data science. An accomplished scholar, Nico is a National School Recognition recipient, a member of both the California Scholarship Federation and the National Honor Society, and a two-time AP Scholar with Distinction. In high school, Nico was deeply involved in school culture, serving two years in ASB, playing Varsity soccer, and both indoor and beach volleyball. Within the broader community, he served as a Red Cross Club member, karate instructor, and volunteer youth soccer coach. He chose to attend SMU for its vibrant campus, strong research opportunities, close-knit community, and career-driven resources. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer, traveling, hiking, going to the beach, and spending time with his friends and family. |
 Cole Hongkeo is from Plano, Texas, where he graduated from Plano West Senior High School Summa Cum Laude and in the top three percent of his class. He plans to major in biochemistry on the pre-health track in the University Honors Program. During high school, Cole was the trombone section leader in the Mighty Wolf Band, and was on the soccer team for four years, going to the state semifinals twice. He was also in the Young Men’s Service League and served as a student advisor for the Plano Youth Leadership program. Cole has been playing piano for twelve years, performing in jazz sets, concerts, and marching band. Lately, he’s been learning guitar and working on his cooking. Cole is also an avid sports lover and has played nearly every sport under the sun! He has been playing soccer since he was three years old. His passion for sports encompasses watching and playing hockey (Go Stars!), volleyball, and pickleball. Cole chose SMU for its small class sizes, prime Dallas location, and extensive alumni network. He is looking forward to continuing his love for all sports, through SMU’s many intramural sport teams, studying abroad (especially for the food), and being a part of the Mustang Band. |
 Diana Ibragimova is from Staten Island, New York. Throughout high school, she served as president of the Russian Club, student government senator, captain of her school’s dance team, and lead choreographer for fall and spring musicals. Her academic achievements include being a member of the National Honor Society, earning the NY State Seal of Biliteracy in Russian, AP Scholar recognition, and earning Gold awards in both the Russian Essay Contest and the Russian Olympiad. She plans to major in psychology but maintains an interest in pursuing study of education, business, and Russian. Diana chose SMU for its plethora of opportunities, tight knit community, and commitment to undergraduate research through meaningful faculty connections. |
 Adriana Johnson is from Birmingham, Alabama, where she graduated from Indian Springs School. During high school, she founded and led her school's St. Jude Club, completed a clinical internship at UAB Hospital, and was recognized as a National Merit Commended Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction. She plans to major in international studies while completing the pre-medical track. Adriana chose SMU for its interdisciplinary approach, close-knit academic community, and opportunities to pursue meaningful research from the start of her college career. Outside the classroom, she enjoys photography, pottery, Pilates, and exploring new cities with friends. |
 Carly Kim grew up between Atlanta, Georgia and Osaka, Japan as a missionary kid. She graduated with the IB Diploma from Canadian Academy in Kobe and is studying biological sciences on the pre-health track at SMU. She hopes to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist or obstetrician-gynecologist, supported by SMU’s collaborative and engaging environment. In high school, she founded a free English literacy program for underserved Korean Japanese youth and served as the captain of her school’s varsity basketball and volleyball team. Carly hopes to pursue undergraduate research and serve her community through the Dedman Scholars Program. Outside of academics, she enjoys dancing, doing her own nails, reading books, and deepening her faith. |
 Gracie Kong is from Dallas, TX, and graduated summa cum laude from Highland Park High School. She was drawn to SMU by its exceptional undergraduate research opportunities, interdisciplinary flexibility, and prime location. Fascinated by the intersection of art, science, and human behavior, she plans to double major in biology and psychology on the pre-dental track. In high school, Gracie was a National Merit Commended Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a member of several honor societies, including La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, National Science Honor Society, and National Art Honor Society. A six-year archer, she served as Archery President and Co-Captain of her school's team during her senior year. Outside of the classroom, Gracie enjoys exploring various creative outlets and traveling the world, drawing inspiration from visionaries Iris van Herpen, Santiago Calatrava, and Kim Namjoon. She is currently on the hunt for the best matcha latte in Dallas. |
 Adleigh Krile is from Fulshear, Texas, where she graduated from Jordan High School as a National Merit Scholar. Throughout high school, Adleigh held leadership roles in HOSA, Interact Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Wild Warriors, and Science National Honor Society while also serving as a cheerleader and UCA National Champion. Prior to attending SMU, Adleigh served as a mentor through PALS and Best Buddies, volunteered in the memory care unit at Atria Senior Living, and interned with Memorial Hermann Health System, where her experiences solidified her calling to medicine. She plans to major in psychology on the pre-medical track and chose SMU for its academic rigor, vibrant campus culture, collaborative community, and research opportunities. At SMU, she hopes to continue to cultivate her leadership skills through community service. She is a licensed Pilates instructor and loves both teaching and taking workout classes. Outside of academics, Adleigh enjoys practicing photography, going to concerts, reading mystery novels, and exploring coffee shops. |
 Meaghan Ly, a Dallas native, is eager to explore SMU’s interdisciplinary academics and strategic position in DFW. She plans to major in psychology while continuing to explore her interest in subjects like philosophy and linguistics. She graduated as valedictorian from Uplift North Hills Preparatory, with her IB Diploma. She participated in the National French Honor Society (SHF), National English Honors Society, and International Thespian Society, receiving distinctions such as AP Scholar with Honor, the Charles Ryder Award of Excellence, and SHF’s Outstanding Senior in French Award. Outside of school, Meaghan cultivates her many interests, like collecting Monster High dolls, dancing to her favorite K-pop songs, and reading works like No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai and Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. |
 Alia Mann comes to SMU from Nashville, Tennessee. She chose SMU for its strong community, beautiful campus, and numerous opportunities. A graduate of Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School, Alia was an AP Scholar, four-time Principal’s List recipient, and member of the National Honor Society. She served as cheerleading captain, yearbook creative editor, Pep Club president, Best Buddies member, and Model UN delegate. She also volunteered with the Nashville Food Project and Nashville Humane Society. Alia plans to study political science and history on the pre-law track. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, travel, family, friends, and historical fiction. |
 Josie Merluzzi is from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she graduated from University School of Milwaukee with a distinction in Civic Leadership, after completing over 100 hours of volunteer service and writing a research thesis. She founded Wisconsin’s first Penny’s Flight chapter, earned a Scholastic Writing award, served as a Peer Mentor, and was a member of her class board. Josie also founded her high school gymnastics team and led them to State. A two-time All-American gymnast, she earned All State, All Conference, WI State Honor Roll, and Greater Metro Conference Scholar honors. Josie plans to major in English and pursue a career in advertising, marketing, or media. She enjoys lifeguarding, Pilates, traveling, shopping, and spending time with family and friends. |
| Valeria Minarro was born and raised in Laredo, Texas and plans to major in international relations on the pre-law track at Southern Methodist University. During her time at John B. Alexander High School, she was involved in multiple honor societies and graduated as an AP Scholar with Distinction. Valeria is passionate about giving back to her community and hopes to pursue a career in immigration law, helping families obtain American citizenship and create better opportunities for themselves in the United States. She chose SMU for its strong sense of community, multitude of academic opportunities, and welcoming culture, especially within the honors program. Outside of academics, she enjoys spending time with friends, dressing up, and expressing her creativity through fashion and art. |
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Jack Morris is from Jackson, Tennessee, where he graduated from the University School of Jackson. In high school, Jack served as a member and officer of numerous honors societies and organizations, as well as being a five-year member of the football team and a two-year member of the track and field team, where he earned All-Region honors. He found a love for serving his community through his time with the American Heart Association as a Teen of Impact and his service as a member of the Mayor's Youth Council. Jack is passionate about movies; his favorite is Good Will Hunting. At SMU, Jack is majoring in biological sciences on the pre-health track with plans to attend medical school. He hopes to be an integral member of the as many clubs and organizations as he can on campus, allowing him to connect with both SMU and the Dallas community. |
 Anna Burns Myers graduated from Stratford Academy in Macon, Georgia. She plans to major in Markets and Culture on the Pre-Law track. She chose SMU for its strong academics, supportive community, and Dallas connections. At Stratford, Anna Burns served in multiple executive positions within the National Charity League, was a Student Ambassador, held leadership roles in Minds Matter and Animal Rescue Club, and participated in numerous service organizations and extracurricular activities. She was also a four-year Dean's List and High Honor Roll honoree. Alongside her academics, Anna Burns enjoys fashion, traveling, fitness, and spending time with friends and family. |
 Giulia Pearcy is from Fort Worth, TX, and pursuing a bachelor's degree in history on the pre-law track. She is a graduate of the Young Women’s Leadership Academy where she held titles as Class of 2026 President, Varsity Cheerleader, Interact Team Member, NHS Member, and member of the President’s Club. Giulia is passionate about supporting her community and being involved. She hopes to assist those in need by pursuing a career in immigration law. Giulia chose SMU because of its phenomenal law program that will enhance her chances of pursuing her dream. Outside of school, she enjoys sewing, crocheting, watching movies, and reading. Her favorite movie is Ferris Bueller’s Day Off because it reminds her to enjoy everyday life. |
 Bella Ransom was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, and plans to major in History on the Pre-Law track. She graduated in the top five percent of her class at UME Preparatory High School with Honors recognition. At UME, she served as Student Government President, Parliamentarian, and representative respectively, participated in the National Honor Society, and did musicals and competition theater. She chose SMU for its student-to-faculty ratio, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary academics. Bella enjoys reading, researching, and learning. Her favorite books include The Count of Monte Cristo, All Quiet on the Western Front, True Grit, and Rebecca. |
 Rayan Saeed comes to SMU from Dallas, Texas, where he graduated from Parish Episcopal School. Aiming to bridge clinical medicine and global healthcare equity, he is majoring in Biology with an intended minor in Public Policy. Rayan chose SMU for its rigorous academic curriculum, small class sizes, and unique research opportunities. An AP Scholar with Distinction and dedicated leader, Rayan founded his school’s Model UN organization, led the Parish Medical Society, served as Vice President of Nightingale Advocacy, and earned the US Presidential Volunteer Gold Service Award for his work with local nonprofit organizations. Rayan has also conducted various published research projects. In his free time, he is an avid baker who enjoys playing tennis, watching sports, taking evening walks, and reading. |
 Ava Sauceda was born in Fresno, California and is excited to pursue a future in law. She is majoring in political science and aspires to attend Dedman School of Law after graduation. In high school, Ava was in the top ten percent of her class and a recipient of the AP Scholar award with Distinction. Outside of the classroom, she was involved in the McKinney North Softball program, both playing on varsity and assisting junior varsity with their practices. Additionally, she was a part of multiple cultural clubs, ensuring her campus was inclusive to all. Her favorite books are The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger and The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. |
 Annika Sengupta comes to SMU from Chicago, Illinois where she graduated from Walter Payton College Prep as an Illinois State Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction. As a Dedman College Scholar and Distinguished Scholar at SMU, she is pursuing a biological sciences major with a minor in cultural anthropology on the pre-health track. While in high school, Annika conducted dermatology research at Northwestern University and rheumatology research at Rush University Medical Center. She also led as president of her school's National Latin Honor Society, captain of the policy debate team, and played varsity golf. She chose SMU for its many academic and research opportunities, school spirit, and proximity to her two-year-old cousin. In her free time, she enjoys exploring with her camera, listening to R&B music, trying new foods, and watching movies. Her favorite book is With the Fire on High and her favorite show is Arrested Development. |
 Paschal Strong is from Frisco, Texas, where he graduated from Wakeland High School as a National Merit Commended Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction, having earned an AP Capstone Diploma, completed research on stress’ effect on memory, and received a Seal of Biliteracy in French. He also served as trombone section leader and logistics crew captain in the Wakeland Band program. Additionally, he competed in swimming and water polo. Paschal was drawn to SMU by its community, career opportunities, and location in Dallas. He plans to double major in statistical science and data science with a minor in business. Paschal writes a sports analytics blog on the side and enjoys sports, music, movies, and spending time with friends. He is excited to join the Mustang Band. |
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