Ronal Bhagat, a Southeast alumnus, granted a Southeast senior the opportunity to win a $50,000 scholarship sponsored by him for an upcoming Wichita State University student.

“Wichita Southeast was really good to me, and now that I’m in a position to contribute and give back to my community, I wanted to take this opportunity to help somebody that’s smart and deserving go to college.”

The Overcoming adversity Scholarship sought to award a student not based on merit or school transcripts, but rather for “somebody that was hungry, that was motivated and needed this boost,” Bhagat said.

Applications opened in the beginning of this school year and were due for submission by November. Out of the eight finalists, it was declared that senior Natalia Malcolm was awarded the scholarship.

“It’s like my life has just been handed to me, I’m so excited,” Malcolm said.

When discussing this accomplishment, she opened up about the adversities she faced that were described in her essay application. Despite all challenges presented to her, she was able to remain in good spirits.

“It impacted the person I am today. I didn’t let it turn me negative,” Malcolm said. “My biggest learning experience is, that when you’re going through stuff, even though at the time, it feels like there’s no end to it, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. And this is my light, this is my light, there’s always gonna’ be an end to it.”

“I thank Mr. Baghat obviously, this would never be possible without him,” Malcolm said. “I want to thank Ms. Colclasure and Mrs. Jeffries as well, and just the whole Southeast community.”

Malcolm plans to attend Wichita State in the upcoming fall semester.

“As of right now, I plan to go to school for psychology to be a mental health therapist,” Malcolm said. “I want to be able to help other people and just help them get through what they’re going through and show them that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. That’s my dream right now. I’m just gonna’ follow my heart and just make sure I have a positive impact on this community.”

Bhagat will award another Southeast senior (2027) next year and wishes to continue afterwards.

“The goal is to announce one every year to deserving southeast Golden Buffalo,” Bhagat said