Giving Thanks: Scholarship Helps Band Student Reach Dream of Working in Finance and Banking

This January, members of our Fulbright College Family are sharing expressions of gratitude, letters of thanks and their appreciation for those who have helped make their educational journey possible. 

Meet Gabriel Martinez, who thanks to the Robert M. Smith Endowed Band Scholarship, is one step closer to his dream of working in finance, banking, and the business world.

Robert M. Smith Endowed Band Scholarship Recipient Gabriel Martinez

Name: Gabriel Martinez
Hometown: Plano, TX
Graduation: 2026

Major(s)/Minor(s): Finance major 

Activities/Interests: Video games, movies, any combat sport, marching band.

Career Aspirations: It might sound generic, but I hope to “climb the corporate ladder.”

In his own words:

Dear Mr. Smith,

Words cannot describe how thankful I am for being a recipient for this award. It truly is an honor to receive a scholarship for something I enjoy doing.

I graduated from Plano Senior High School, and I am currently pursuing a major in Finance. In the near future, I plan to work in any bank, as my major revolves around banking.

While I am not financially struggling, this award will help me out. I do work hard, and I plan to work harder in the future so that I can pay off my debt as quickly as possible. Receiving this honorary award will let me take out less for my loans.

Once again, I thank you for letting me be a recipient of this award, as not only will it help me financially in the future, but it will look great on me in the future, and I’m glad to be a part of it.

Sincerely,

Gabriel Martinez

For more information about the Robert M. Smith Endowed Band Scholarship or to make a year-end gift to support the college’s students, faculty, or staff, please contact Fulbright College’s Office of Development and External Relations at 479-575-3712 or fulbright@uark.edu.