Samantha Tran: 2026 Gates Scholarship Recipient

Islip High School senior Samantha Tran has been recognized for an extraordinary academic achievement after being selected as a recipient of The Gates Scholarship, one of the nation's most competitive and prestigious scholarships. Out of more than 60,000 applicants nationwide, Samantha was chosen as one of just 750 students to receive the award.

The Gates Scholarship recognizes exceptional students who have demonstrated academic success, leadership, community involvement, and perseverance throughout their high school careers. Recipients are selected through a rigorous application and interview process that evaluates both achievement and potential for future impact.

Samantha’s selection reflects her hard work, dedication, and commitment both inside and outside of the classroom. In addition to excelling academically, she has made meaningful contributions to her school community through leadership activities, service, and involvement in extracurricular programs.

The entire school community is incredibly proud of this outstanding accomplishment. Being named a Gates Scholar places her among an elite group of students across the country and serves as an inspiration to her classmates and younger students alike.

Samantha will be studying at Northeastern University in the fall. She first visited the campus during Islip High School’s inaugural overnight college tour in the fall of 2023. 

Assistant Principal, Ms. Lisa Ward, shared, “Samantha Tran is an exceptional student whose academic work is outstanding and whose achievements are exceptional. We are so very proud of her as the recipient of the Gates Scholarship.  

According to her school counselor, Ms. Kerri Friend, “Samantha is exceptional in every respect.  She excels academically, is actively involved in a wide range of activities, is a strong leader, and a positive role model who is well respected by the faculty and her peers. But above all, she distinguishes herself as an outstanding human being, and I am happy to have had the opportunity to know her these past four years!"

Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez shared, “I could not be more proud of Samantha. I am thrilled that she chose Northeastern University and am confident that she will take full advantage of everything that the college and Boston have to offer."