Three Los Fresnos High School seniors from the Class of 2026 have earned one of the most prestigious scholarships in the nation—being selected as QuestBridge National College Match Scholars. Each student has been awarded a full four-year scholarship to a highly selective university, covering tuition, housing, meals, books, and more.
Their achievements reflect the hard work of these students as well as the support of the LFHS College Center and counselors who help guide students through the competitive QuestBridge process.
Antonio Bazaldua – Matched with Rice University
Intended Major: Mechanical Engineering / Business
Los Fresnos High School senior Antonio Bazaldua has been named a QuestBridge Match Scholar and will be attending Rice University on a full four-year scholarship. A highly accomplished student, Bazaldua has earned recognition as a NASA and Texas A&M Aerospace Scholar, USC Bovard Scholar, Dartmouth Bound Scholar, and QuestBridge College Prep Scholar, as well as being a two-time DECA State Qualifier.
Antonio says he is excited to immerse himself in the engineering community at Rice.
“I am looking forward to finding my community at Rice and utilizing the various maker spaces they have to begin engineering design projects,” he shared.
He says receiving the Match has opened the door to pursuing his passion without financial barriers. “To me, receiving this scholarship means that I am able to pursue my passion for engineering in college without the burden of tuition costs.”
Kristen Cook – Matched with the University of Notre Dame
Intended Major: Political Science
Los Fresnos High School senior Kristen Cook is headed to the University of Notre Dame after earning a full QuestBridge Match scholarship. A dedicated leader on campus, Cook has spent her senior year serving as Student Council President, Varsity Cheer Captain, National Honor Society Vice President, and Senior Class Vice President. She is also a First-Generation Student, AP Scholar with Honor, and a proud South Texas Cotillion Debutante.
Cook says she is excited to embrace a new environment and all the experiences that come with attending a top university far from home.
“I am definitely looking forward to making new connections and getting a change of scenery by living in a completely different environment,” Cook said. “I also plan to try out for their cheer team, which gives me another exciting goal to work toward.”
For Cook, the Match scholarship represents the reward for years of dedication and hard work she put into her academics and extracurricular activities.
“I am immensely thankful for Ms. Gomez-Trevino at the College Center and my counselor, Ms. Arredondo, for all of their help with the process and the resources they provide us to succeed. QuestBridge has made my dream of attending college out of state a reality, and I will be forever grateful for that.”
Judith Mire – Matched with Columbia University
Intended Majors: Political Science & International Relations
Senior Judith Mire will be joining the incoming class at Columbia University in New York City after being named a QuestBridge Match Scholar. A standout musician and academic competitor, Mire has served as Drum Major for the Falcon marching band for two years and has earned placements in the Region 28 TMEA All-Region Band. She advanced to UIL State Solo & Ensemble, where she received an Excellent (Division 2) rating.
Mire is a two-time Texas Public Safety Association regional champion and a state champion in Courtroom Opening Statements. In her junior year, she also earned an Emergency Telecommunications Certification with Honors from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Mire is eager to make the most of the academic and cultural opportunities awaiting her in New York City. “I’m really excited to take advantage of all of the resources that both Columbia and the city of New York have to offer,” Mire said. “There are so many opportunities for research, internships, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I can’t wait to soak in.”
Receiving the Match, she says, has been transformative and given her a new sense of confidence. “Before applying, I didn’t think that going to an Ivy League or top-10 school would be realistic,” said Mire. “Now, I can believe in myself when I want to shoot for the stars—and I can pursue an education that will challenge me in the best ways without worrying about the cost of attendance.”
A Tradition of Excellence
These three recipients from the Class of 2026 represent the growing success of Los Fresnos CISD students who pursue highly competitive national opportunities. The LFHS College Center continues to guide students through scholarship, college, and career pathways—ensuring Falcons are well prepared for life beyond high school.