Two IHS students awarded $15,000 scholarships from BNP Paribas USA

2 Indio High School students will be getting some help to continue their educations — after getting 15-thousand dollars in scholarships today from BNP Paribas USA.

BNP Paribas officials said they hope the $15,000 reminds students they can overcome obstacles in their life when they choose to push forward.

“It shocked me and my family was crying it was the best thing I could have ever heard,” Alyssa Alvarez said.

“It’s going to help me out a lot honestly it is and I’m very grateful for that,” Diego Ceja said.

Alvarez and Ceja are both seniors at Indio High School that have a passion for tennis. Thursday, they got a moment to shine in front of their friends, each accepting a scholarship to pursue their dreams.

“It was actually fascinating and so emotional to see them accept the scholarship and for each one of them I know this will provide them the financial help they were looking for to go to college,” Bank of the West CEO Nandita Bakhshi said.

BNP Paribas officials said both students were chosen for their drive and determination to overcome obstacles in their lives.

“I was diagnosed with a disease that kind of restricted me from physical activities and I was told that it was going to be very hard for me to join a sport,” Alvarez said.

Officials said it was Ceja’s “can do” attitude despite his family’s financial circumstances that they chose him. Both students said they will use this money not only wisely, but to give back in their careers. The first stop, college.

“I’m still waiting on Cal State San Bernardino but most likely [College of the Desert],” Ceja said.
“My plan is to go to a 4-year-university and then to hopefully get into medical school,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez said she wants to us her diagnosis with spinal meningitis to help others as a future doctor. Ceja said he plans to study to become a physical therapist.

Both students will be recognized on Saturday at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.