From Passion to Possibility: HCV Resident Bound for UT Austin
This fall, Miguel Nunez will begin a new chapter as he turns a lifelong passion for art into the pursuit of a dream at The University of Texas at Austin.
The 2026 Harlandale STEM Early College High School graduate and Housing Choice Voucher participant will major in art, moving closer to his goal of one day curating contemporary and modern art at a prestigious museum.
“Art is the vision to humanity’s soul,” Nunez said. “It’s the best way to see how a person feels, loves and expresses emotions.”
His acceptance to UT Austin made an already special day even more memorable. The 18-year-old learned he had been admitted on his birthday, giving his family another reason to celebrate over dinner.
“Going to UT Austin gives me the opportunity to achieve my dreams with the connections and opportunities available to me,” Nunez said.
As he prepares for college, Nunez is also receiving support through a $1,000 scholarship through the Texas chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO).
Each year, Texas NAHRO awards scholarships to Public Housing and Housing Choice Program participants pursuing higher education, helping them continue their education and work toward their career goals.
For Nunez, the scholarship represents more than financial support. It is another opportunity to invest in his future while pursuing the career he has envisioned for years.
“I’m grateful for this scholarship,” Nunez said. “I love to represent my community, and this scholarship is one of the best ways to do it.”
Nunez encourages residents to apply for scholarships, noting that every award can make a difference.
“Scholarships add up and can make a difference in your journey,” he said. “It’s nice to take advantage of the resources available to you because you don’t know when you’ll need them.”