Growing up, the Thomas Jefferson High School senior often served as a translator for his mother helping navigate everyday situations that required English fluency.
What started as a responsibility quickly became a purpose. Now, Alan is preparing to attend Brown University on a full-ride scholarship where he will study electrical engineering.
“I want to create devices that help break language barriers,” Alan said. “That’s something that has always been part of my life.”
At Thomas Jefferson, Alan built a path that will take him across the country and into one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. He said the moment he found out he was accepted to Brown was unforgettable.
“It was an emotional experience,” Alan said. “I didn’t really know how to react at first.”
Throughout his high school career, Alan built his academic and leadership foundation through a variety of programs and opportunities. He participated in robotics, National Honor Society and student ambassador programs, while also staying involved in Upward Bound, a federally funded program designed to support student graduation and college readiness.
Through Upward Bound, Alan expanded his perspective beyond Dallas, traveling across the US to places like Washington, D.C., California, and Corpus Christi. The program also provided support with college preparation, financial literacy, and standardized testing.
“It showed me I could go anywhere,” he said. “It opened my mindset to what’s possible.”
Alan credits much of his success to the support system around him, including his close friends, teachers, and college advisor, Lucy Erstpower, who guided him through the college application process. He recalls sharing the moment he received his acceptance with his best friend, who supported him throughout his journey.
At home, his greatest source of motivation is his mother.
“As a single parent, she’s done everything for me,” Alan said. “She never asked me to do this. I wanted to do it for her.”
As he prepares to leave Dallas ISD, Alan reflects on the role the district played in shaping his path.
“Dallas ISD gave me the resources and opportunities I needed,” he said. “The programs, the teachers, and the community all supported me along the way.”
Looking ahead, Alan hopes to combine his passion for engineering with his lived experiences to create solutions that make a meaningful impact. Beyond his career, he also sees himself mentoring others and giving back to students who are following a similar path.
His advice to younger students is simple.
“With hard work, some luck and the right support system, you can accomplish anything you want,” he said.
