Bronx high school seniors earn over one million dollars each in scholarships
Nine students from Cardinal Spellman Catholic High School in the Bronx just did something amazing. Together, they earned nearly $11 million in college scholarships. That’s more than $1 million per student.
Their secret? Writing many essays and negotiating with colleges to get more money. Their story has shocked and inspired many people. Even a caller once argued with the school, saying the amount was impossible. But the numbers are real—and so is the hard work behind them.
Rehema Ojwang leads the group with a seat at Princeton University
Among the nine students, Rehema Ojwang stands out. She’s the class salutatorian and a first-generation American. Her parents immigrated to the U.S., and now she’s heading to Princeton to study politics.
Rehema believes their success proves that others can do it too. “This is really doable,” she said. She also has advice for younger students: stay true to what you love. You don’t have to start a business or a nonprofit. Just work hard at the things that bring you joy.
She explained, “Put effort into the things that you like doing.” That passion, she said, will shine through in your applications.
Students used grit and teamwork to win big scholarships
The full team includes Shakira Simo, Alyssa Rill, Gabrielle Henriques, Rehema Ojwang, Robert Hernandez, Akua Amponsah, Nina Gonzalez, Saniya Smith, and Kaylyn Little. They leaned on each other for support and wrote essay after essay.
They also didn’t settle for what colleges first offered. They picked up the phone and asked for more. That bravery helped grow their scholarship amounts even more.
“It’s really inspiring to accomplish something so big,” said Simo. “I think just having grit and determination gets you to that point.”
Their story inspires others across New York and beyond
These students are now set to attend top colleges all over the country. Some of their schools include Ivy League institutions. Others are still excellent colleges right in New York.
Their win isn’t just personal—it’s public. People everywhere are now looking at what’s possible with focus, effort, and the right support. Their story shows that students from any background can dream big and get there.
As Rehema and her classmates move on to the next chapter, they’ve already made history at their high school. But more importantly, they’ve lit a path for others to follow.
