High School: Connections Academy
Major: Political Science, English
Project: My goal is to raise awareness about the detrimental harms of sexually explicit content and to explore how we can navigate a world where it permeates nearly every space. I aim to reach women and challenge the embedded belief that women are commodities and dismantle patriarchal ideas pushed upon women through the advent of sexually explicit content.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: Being able to make a difference and have the resources to do so in a way never before.
High School: Denver Waldorf
Major: International Studies
Project: Although I’m still unsure of what I would truly like to do with my Puksta project, I am thinking of ways to possibly connect those who have recently immigrated, to their new community through working with the natural environment around them.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: I’m excited to get to engage with my community in a more direct and impactful way than I have been able to before. I get to be part of an academic community of people like myself as well as the broader community!
High School: South High School
Major: International Relations & Affairs
Project: For my Puksta Pathway, I plan to develop a project that supports immigrants as they navigate life in a new country by providing resources, community connections, and emotional support to ensure they know they’re not alone. I also hope to mentor newcomers and first-generation students by offering guidance and resources to help them succeed in high school, pursue higher education, or explore opportunities designed for them after graduation.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: I am excited to engage with everyone and get working on my project and experience all the amazing events.
High School: Rangeview
Major: Molecular Biology
Project: I plan to work with Public schools in Aurora and Denver to evaluate special education systems. In addition I will be researching legislations and laws regarding special education within the public education system.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: I am excited to see my aspirations flourish and bear fruit. I also look forward to being a part of others’ journeys in making their changes in our society.
High School: DSST: Cedar High school
Major: Human Biology
Project: I’m thinking about creating a project where I can help people gain better access to healthcare not only locally but also for those living in other countries. I am looking forward to gathering people who may be interested in the same thing and raising money for those in need of better medical care.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: I’m most excited to have a community where I can feel supported throughout college.
High School: DSST Cedar High School
Major: Biology
Project: My Puksta pathway/project will focus on finding a unique solution to food insecurity in my community. By viewing the problem through a quality rather than quantity focused lens, I hope to not only provide fresher food, but hopeful perspectives to families.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: Working with people who care for change in whatever they want, but want to better themselves and their environment.
High School: Fort Lupton High School
Major: Pre med
Project: For my Puksta Pathway/Project this year, I’m aiming to improve healthcare accessibility for underserved communities, with a specific focus on immigrants. My project will address the unique barriers they face, such as language, cultural differences, and limited access to resources. I plan to expand my social network and provide targeted support and services for this community.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: What excites me most about being a Puksta Scholar is the potential to create a lasting legacy of positive change. By working collaboratively, leveraging the program’s resources, and dedicating ourselves to making a difference, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our individual efforts. It’s an honor to be part of a community of change makers, and I’m eager to contribute my skills and passion to the Puksta Scholars Program.
Posted on February 4, 2026
High School: Northeast Early College
Major: Political Science
Project: I plan to focus on immigration advocacy, with an emphasis on how immigration intersects with access to healthcare, discrimination and disabilities. As a first-generation Mexican American, I aim to create programs and resources that amplify immigrant voices and promote equity in my community.
Looking Forward to in Puksta: I’m most excited about the opportunities this program will open for my future, especially the chance to connect with other students who share similar interests and passions. One of the things that excites me the most is working on my Puksta project, which I see as a meaningful way to grow and learn.
Posted on February 4, 2026
High School: DSST: Cedar High School
Major: Finance & Accounting
Project: For my Puksta Pathway, I plan to create a financial literacy initiative aimed at empowering underrepresented youth in low-income communities. Too often, students graduate high school without basic financial knowledge, which can lead to long-term cycles of debt and limited opportunity. My project will provide workshops, mentorship, and digital resources focused on essential topics like budgeting, saving, credit, investing, and understanding student loans. By making financial education more accessible and relatable, I hope to equip young people with the tools to build generational wealth and make confident, informed decisions about their future.
Looking Forward to in Puksta:What excites me most about being a Puksta Scholar is the opportunity to be part of a supportive community of changemakers who are just as passionate about social impact as I am. I’m looking forward to growing alongside other scholars, gaining mentorship, and turning my ideas into action with the guidance and resources the program provides.
Posted on February 4, 2026
High School: DSST: Conservatory Green High School
Major: Zoology
Project: My project will encapsulate the idea of Animal Rights Awareness. I want to spread education about the current status of animal rights in states nationwide in order to tackle misinformation and increase the availability of such knowledge by encouraging more people to care.
Looking forward to in Puksta: I am most excited to get to learn from other Puksta Scholars and their interests when it comes to forming a project as well as getting to know possible mentors who can guide me through my career path!
