Andrés Bello Award for Isabela Vega Gómez, the young woman from Santander who chose UIS to fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor

At just 17 years old, Isabela Vega Gómez, a student at Colegio Bilingüe Divino Niño in Bucaramanga, has become a symbol of discipline, talent, and vocation. With a score of 478 on the national Saber 11 exams, she earned the Andrés Bello Award, the highest recognition granted by Colombia’s Ministry of National Education to the top high school graduate in each department.

From her school in Bucaramanga, where she has studied since elementary grades, Isabela was welcomed with applause and pride by her teachers and classmates. And rightly so: her results reflect not only strong preparation but also an exceptional commitment to learning. She achieved a perfect score in Mathematics, Natural Sciences, English, and Critical Reading, completing the total with her performance in Social Sciences.

“Discipline has always been my companion,” says Isabela, her smile revealing both humility and satisfaction. Despite her young age, she has a clear vision for her future:

“I want to study Medicine at the Universidad Industrial de Santander (UIS). It’s the best program in the country, with impressive facilities and outstanding professors.”

The UIS, nationally recognized for its academic excellence and its contributions to science and healthcare, will now become this young woman’s academic home. Already enrolled in the UIS Medicine program, Isabela is preparing for the next step in her life project:

“I feel that there I’ll be able to combine my love for biology and chemistry while developing my calling to serve others. It’s the ideal place to grow as a professional and as a person.”

Behind her success is a family full of love and support. Her mother, Isabel Cristina Gómez Neira, recalls the moment they learned the news with emotion:

“My heart was about to burst. It was immense joy — a blessing from God. Seeing that all of Isabela’s effort had borne fruit was indescribable.”

Her father, Carlos Alirio Vega Guerrero, and her brother, Santiago, have also been key pillars of support. “The home is a sacred place, and that’s where we nurture everything we are,” her mother adds.

UIS: A choice with purpose

Although Isabela could have applied to other universities, her decision was clear: to study at the Universidad Industrial de Santander.

“UIS is a national reference and a source of pride for our region. It shapes professionals with values, knowledge, and commitment. There’s no better choice than staying in Bucaramanga and betting on what’s ours,” her mother says firmly.

The Andrés Bello Award is not just an academic distinction — it also brings a tangible opportunity: a full scholarship covering 100% of tuition at a public higher education institution, such as UIS. This allows students like Isabela to continue their educational path at universities that transform lives.

Her achievement stands out even more knowing she earned her score on her first attempt, unlike many who retake the exam to improve results. This underscores the authenticity of her success and the depth of her effort.

To other young people dreaming of entering university, Isabela offers words of encouragement:

“It’s possible to get in. It’s not as hard as it seems. The key is preparation and having a clear goal. With focus, discipline, and self-confidence, you can achieve anything.”

With her sights set on the UIS School of Health, Isabela Vega Gómez represents the talent of Santander — young people who believe in public education, in perseverance, and in the power of dreams.

Excellence, once again, chooses to stay home… Her name is Isabela Vega Gómez — future UIS doctor.