Student Success Stories
Welcome to our Student Success Stories page, where we celebrate the accomplishments and creativity of our students. From entrepreneurial ventures and innovative projects to academic awards and community leadership, our students are making an impact both in and beyond the classroom. These stories highlight their hard work, dedication, and the bright futures they are building. We invite you to explore and be inspired by the many ways our students are achieving excellence.
Global Heart, Local Action: Sarita Kaiser’s Path to Inclusive Impact
Sarita Kaiser is driven by a lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities through compassion, creativity, and scholarship. She founded Inclusive Impacts, a nonprofit in Bangladesh empowering children and teens with disabilities, including a project where she supported teenage girls through art-based entrepreneurship, raising over $6,500 for their independence. In Austin, she provided music therapy to children at Casa Marianella and volunteered with seniors in nursing homes. Her service inspired published research with a Columbia University professor, reflecting her goal of bridging psychology and community work to expand access to emotional well-being.
ESports Champion
We are proud to highlight 11th grade student Noah Dials, High School team captain for AESA Esports. Region 13, which serves over 50 school districts, charters, and higher education institutions, including Austin, Hays, and Comal ISDs, hosts two annual Texas Esports state championship qualifier tournaments for the fall and spring. Noah took home the first place trophy in the 2025 Annual Fall Region 13 Smash Bros tournament hosted by TexSEF (Texas Scholastic Esports Federation), outlasting 57 other students from schools all around Region 13 to win the top prize. This win also qualifies Noah for the Texas Undisputed 2026 state championship tournament, hosted at Baylor University in May 2026!
Sailing Master
William Deboer was introduced to sailing at age seven when his grandmother enrolled them at the Austin Yacht Club, an experience that quickly grew into a lasting passion. From hands-on beginnings in small boats, William progressed to racing and mastering a 22-foot Catalina, developing the focus, skill, and adaptability the sport demands. Now nearly fifteen, he confidently handles a range of boats and conditions on unpredictable Lake Travis, even staying calm and in control during a sudden 60-mph storm. Despite the challenges this high-intensity sport brings, William’s love for sailing endures, bringing him back to the water time and again.
Passion for Equestrian
It all started in the summer of 2021 with a little girl, her friends, a summer camp, and a horse—an experience that quietly sparked a lasting passion. Over the years, that spark has grown into dedication, discipline, and a deep love for the sport, shaped by countless lessons, early mornings, and time spent in the saddle. Now 13 years old, Penny is a confident and determined jumper, competing alongside friends, cheering on fellow riders, and consistently earning 1st place prizes and Champion ribbons. She rides a stunning 8-year-old warmblood mare named BeeBop, and together they have formed a strong partnership built on trust, hard work, and mutual respect, continuing to grow and succeed with every ride.
​Student Entrepreneur Spotlight
The AESA Entrepreneurial Institute is proud to highlight 9th grade student, Camila Carrasco, founder of Buttercup Bakery. Camila successfully pitched her fully licensed business and now counts AESA among her clients. Each day, our dining hall serves her 100-year-old starter sourdough bread for students who can enjoy gluten. We are proud to celebrate Camila’s entrepreneurial spirit and success!
Inspiring Change Through Storytelling
Dylan MacDonald, 11th Grade, has achieved the remarkable accomplishment of becoming a published author. As a contributing writer to Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-Changers, Volume 3, Dylan’s work is now featured alongside inspiring voices from across the globe. His creativity, dedication, and storytelling talent shine through this achievement, making us proud to celebrate him as part of our Student Success Stories.
Spotlight on Academic Distinction
We are proud to celebrate AESA’s 2025 Valedictorian, Amrith Chandra, who has been named a National Merit Finalist and Scholarship Winner—an achievement earned by less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors. Out of more than 1.5 million students nationwide who entered the competition, only about 15,000 advance to Finalist status, and approximately 8,000 are awarded scholarships. This prestigious recognition reflects Amrith’s exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to excellence. Amrith will continue his educational journey at the University of California, Berkeley, where we know he will make an extraordinary impact.
Shining Bright on the Scholastic Arts Stage
AESA proudly congratulates our 2024 and 2025 Scholastic Arts Competition Winners—Camila Carrasco, Emily Schwartz, and Zadok Bendandi. Through their exceptional talents in photography, fashion, and other creative media, these students have earned both regional and national recognition, distinguishing themselves among the nation’s top young artists. Their achievements showcase not only their artistic vision and dedication but also AESA’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation at the highest level.
Tennis Superstar
Rollins Connell recently competed at Sectionals in New Braunfels with her 10U green ball team, the Ballistic Bananas, and delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament. The team played with determination and teamwork, ultimately earning an impressive third-place finish in the state. Rollins not only competed with focus and skill on the court, but also stood out for her positive attitude and leadership, consistently encouraging her teammates and cheering them on through every match. Her commitment to fair play and support for others earned her the Sportsmanship Award, a well-deserved recognition of her character both on and off the court. Way to represent your team with heart and hustle! Go Bananas!
Commitment to Soccer
Theo began playing soccer at just three years old and, now 15, has spent more than a decade growing into a dedicated and versatile player. A competitive athlete for the past seven years, he currently plays for Legends FC, where his work ethic and maturity have earned him the role of team captain. Primarily a center back known for his strength, discipline, and composure on the ball, Theo also plays up two age groups as a central midfielder, showcasing his soccer IQ and adaptability. In addition to contributing to his school team, he has gained valuable international experience competing in Spain and at the Norway Cup in Oslo. Driven by passion, leadership, and continuous growth, Theo hopes to continue his soccer journey at the collegiate level.
