Grapevine High School senior Safa Fatima has earned a full, four-year scholarship to Yale University through the QuestBridge National College Match program. She is the second GCISD student this school year to be named a 2025 QuestBridge National College Match Recipient.
As a recipient, Fatima will have all college-related expenses covered by Yale, including tuition, housing, meals, books, supplies, and travel. The scholarship also includes early admission.
“It was very unexpected,” Fatima said. “I never thought I would get matched to Yale, and it was my top choice.”
Ironically, Fatima learned of the news December 1 while touring colleges with family in the New York area so they decided to instead go to Connecticut to see Fatima’s future university.
“It didn’t feel real,” she said. “It’s such a beautiful campus.”
Fatima, who plans to become a surgeon, can’t wait to attend and already has her future mapped out.
“One of the unique things about Yale is its combined bachelor’s and master’s program, where you can earn both degrees in four years,” she said. “That’s the plan.”
Grapevine High School Principal Dr. Alex Fingers said Fatima is more than capable of achieving her dreams.
“She’s a well-rounded student and a polished orator who can then turn around and excel in her other strengths, which include science and math,” Fingers said. “Her future is immensely bright.”
At GHS, Fatima has distinguished herself both academically and through extracurricular involvement. She serves as president of the Oral Interpretation Speech and Debate team, co-founder/president of the GHS Model United Nations, vice president of the ASPIRE Student Advisory Council, and treasurer of the English National Honor Society, to name a few activities. She is also an intern at Bell Helicopter.
“Knowing that I won’t be going into debt for my undergraduate education is a huge relief,” Fatima said, adding that her family shares in the excitement. “My dad bought a Yale hat and now has all of the university’s gear.”
Fatima credits the support she has received at Grapevine High School for helping her reach this milestone.
“Having the support of my teachers, administrators, and club sponsors—and knowing they have my back—makes all the difference,” she said. “They encourage me to dream big.”
QuestBridge was founded 30 years ago to connect high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with full four-year scholarships to the nation’s top colleges. In 2025, the organization matched students with 55 prestigious college partners.
Congratulations, Safa!