Golden tickets that can change the course of a person’s life aren’t just found in Hollywood—they're right here in Edgewood ISD.
“The Golden Ticket is for a two-year nursing program,” says Memorial High School senior Ryan DeLeon. “It will be completely paid for.”
DeLeon is one of seven students from the San Antonio area to receive a Golden Ticket from Palo Alto College. He and the other Class of 2025 graduates will be part of a new Registered Nursing Program at the Southside Education and Training Center.
“I want to become a nurse and eventually a doctor—that’s my goal,” says DeLeon. “My Tia is a Registered Nurse (RN), so I’ve seen her put in the work, and it really inspired me to do the same.”
DeLeon is part of the Health Science program at Memorial. Over the past four years, he has gained valuable skills needed to treat and care for patients.
“When I first started the program, I was really shy. It’s taught me how to work with people and be a good ‘people person,’” he says. “I’ve learned how to have a good bedside manner. That’s really key in nursing.”
DeLeon’s long-term goal is to become a pediatrician.
Being able to focus on his goals without the burden of finding a way to pay for school is an opportunity he is extremely grateful for.
“It’s amazing to start the journey like this,” says the 17-year-old with a smile. “It will give me the motivation I need to continue on.”
DeLeon will graduate in the top 10% of his class. In addition to his high school diploma, he has earned his Phlebotomy Technician certification, Basic Life Support certification, and hands-only CPR certification.
He admits his freshman year wasn’t as exciting as he’d hoped, but he’s optimistic that his Golden Ticket will inspire other students considering the Health Science program.
“As you progress through the years, they teach you the skills you need to work in the medical field,” says DeLeon. “Just do it and stick with it.”