Booker T. Washington Senior Wins $30K College Scholarship

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Congratulations to Booker T. Washington High School student Alexis Gabriel who won a four year college scholarship Tuesday morning. The scholarship was given to Alexis by The Biscayne Bay Kiwanis Club, one of South Florida's oldest and largest community service organizations.

Hundreds of students applied but Alexis was given the $30,000 award during a ceremony at the school.

This extremely deserving student had no idea she had won until her name was called.

"I couldn't believe it, I was shocked because some of the others, I know they did well so I thought me why did they choose me?" said Alexis.

It's because she worked hard for it.

Alexis has a 4.3 GPA, takes honors and AP courses, and has completed more than 1,000 hours of community service.

She has done all of that with the help of her mother, who is a single mom.

Alexis is going to use the scholarship money to help her with costs at Miami Dade College. She wants to be near her mother.

"My mom she was diagnosed with colon cancer in January so that's why I want to stay close to home with her."

Her mother couldn't make it to the ceremony because of her cancer.

"I can't wait to tell my mom. As soon as I go back inside and call her and tell her she doesn't have to pay a dime."

The scholarship means more than just financial help for Alexis; it's also proof to her younger family members, that with hard work, you will succeed.

"I'm going to be the first one to go to college. I do have nephews who look up to me so I can be the first person to go to college and let them know that where you come from doesn't have to determine who they are in life or where they go."

Alexis plans on majoring in neonatal nursing at Miami Dade College.

Congratulations to an extraordinary young lady!