Seven Lakes High School Senior Awarded Prestigious Navy ROTC Scholarship to Study Nursing at UCLA
Avantika Vijayaraghavan, a standout senior at Seven Lakes High School in Katy ISD, has been awarded a highly competitive Navy ROTC Scholarship to pursue a degree in nursing at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)—a scholarship that not only covers full college tuition but also secures her a future as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy.
The Navy ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) Scholarship is one of the most selective and prestigious paths for high-achieving high school students who wish to combine higher education with military service. Recipients like Avantika commit to serving in the Navy after completing their degree, entering their career as commissioned officers. Only a limited number of scholarships are awarded annually across the country, and Avantika’s selection underscores both her academic excellence and her commitment to public service.
“This is such an incredible honor for Avantika and an example for our students who wish to join the military,” said Kerri Finnes and, principal of Seven Lakes High School. “We are so proud of her and look forward to hearing of the great things to come next.”
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Avantika plans to become a Navy nurse, a role that combines clinical expertise with leadership and service to others. Navy nurses serve both stateside and around the globe, providing care to service members, veterans, and their families in military hospitals, onboard ships, and in field units. Their work is critical in both everyday health care and in emergency response and combat support situations.
A Path of Service Through the Navy ROTC Nursing Program
The Navy ROTC Nursing Program offers scholarships specifically to students pursuing Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees at approved institutions like UCLA. Participants complete nursing coursework alongside Navy ROTC training, which includes leadership development, military science classes, and summer training programs. Upon graduation and passing the NCLEX licensing exam, Navy nursing students are commissioned as Ensigns in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps.
This path offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable clinical experience while serving those who serve the nation.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Katy ISD Continues to Produce Future Military Leaders
Avantika’s achievement is part of a broader trend in Katy ISD, where several students this year have earned Navy ROTC scholarships, like Paetow High School senior Elizabeth Thornton and Katy High School senior Joseph Fields. These scholarships allow students to pursue their educational goals while preparing for leadership roles in the military, reflecting the district’s strong emphasis on academic excellence, civic responsibility, and career readiness.
With the Navy ROTC scholarship, Avantika joins a proud tradition of students who take their ambitions beyond the classroom, choosing to serve their country while advancing in high-demand career fields like nursing.
As she prepares for the next chapter at UCLA, Avantika carries with her not only the support of her school and family but also the recognition of the Navy—a signal of her potential to become both a skilled nurse and a respected officer.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.