Success Stories

Our TILF Scholars accomplish great things across the state and the nation. Their successes in UIL competition prepare them for exciting experiences in college and later in life. TILF is proud to count among our scholars prominent leaders in business, academia, and public service. Below are just a few of our current recipients.

Kaleigh Jo Tankersley
Howard Payne University
"I began UIL when I was in the second grade. Every event required 100% effort so that we could take home the gold. UIL has helped me acquire skills like time management that I will use for the rest of my life."
Jacob Troublefield
The University of Texas at Austin
"Receiving a TILF scholarship means being closer to financial security, which has been very helpful in allowing me to focus on my studies. I am eternally grateful for receiving a TILF scholarship."
Jose “Trey” Arjona III
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
"My years in the UIL have taught me many lessons that will stay with me my entire life. It has taught me to always strive for the best, and if I fail, I would have to better myself, both in mind and body. Being able to compete, to represent my school, has given me a sense of pride in what I do, and in my opinion the world we live in now needs more of that."
Dakota Kilcrease
Texas Tech University
"Even if academics isn't a passion of yours, UIL still is able to complement your skills in all areas of life, which is why it is such a valuable activity to participate in. For me, UIL helped me prepare for my academics, got me involved in extracurricular activities, pushed my desire to succeed, and even helped me afford college. "
Kevin King
The University of Texas at Austin
"The University Interscholastic League has inspired me to become a better performer, student, and human being. The values of competition and camaraderie I learned through my time with the UIL are lessons I will carry into my collegiate experience. Thank you UIL, for providing me with the opportunity to truly grow."
Mary Cantu-Garcia
The University of Texas at Austin
"The experiences I underwent in UIL made my four years of high school worthwhile. As well as knowledge, I learned so much about myself and the person I want to become. It not only prepared me for what I was to expect in college, but taught me lessons applicable to any area of life."
Kaitlin Wetz
Southern Methodist University
"UIL has taught me how to research and acquire my own knowledge of the world instead of standing back and letting it fall into my hands without working for it. UIL was the catalyst that drove my personal transformation from an insecure, quiet teenager into a passionate and confident young adult."