Polk State student Jocelyn Jewel Ramos selected for State Board of Education recognition

Jocelyn Jewel Ramos learned early that building a better future requires sacrifice, responsibility, and persistence.

On Wednesday, the first-year Polk State College student was recognized as a Florida College System Foundation Scholarship recipient during the State Board of Education meeting at Polk State’s Winter Haven Campus.

Ramos was selected as a scholarship recipient because her story demonstrates perseverance in overcoming challenges while pursuing her education.

“Being selected for this recognition means a lot to me because it shows that the work my family and I have put into my education is leading somewhere,” Ramos said. “My parents have worked hard my entire life to give my sister and me opportunities they did not always have. I hope this moment shows them that their sacrifices have made a difference.”

Ramos was born in New York and spent the first 13 years of her life in the Bronx. Her parents worked long hours to provide for their children.

Those demanding schedules meant Ramos took on significant responsibilities at home, including caring for her younger sister and helping manage household tasks while her parents were working.

The family eventually moved to Florida in search of greater stability. Financial pressures and long work schedules continued, but Ramos remained focused on her education.

She graduated from Davenport High School with a 4.0 grade-point average and Honors with Distinction. Through dual enrollment, she began taking courses at Polk State while still in high school, giving her an early introduction to the College and helping prepare her for the transition into college-level study.

“Jocelyn’s story is a powerful example of what Florida’s education system is designed to make possible,” said State Board of Education Chair Ryan Petty. “Her determination, academic achievement, and commitment to building a meaningful career reflect the very best of our students. We are proud to recognize Jocelyn and to support opportunities that help students turn hard work into a successful future.”

Ramos is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree and completing the prerequisite courses needed to apply to Polk State’s Radiography Program. Her goal is to become a radiologic technologist and provide patients with both skilled care and reassurance during uncertain moments. She is also interested in continuing her education and eventually earning a bachelor’s degree.

“Jocelyn’s accomplishments and determination make her incredibly deserving of this statewide recognition,” said Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Her story reflects the promise of our students and the life-changing opportunities created with this investment. Polk State is proud to have Jocelyn represent our College before the State Board of Education.”

Her Florida College System Foundation Scholarship assists with books and other educational expenses, including the prerequisite courses required for admission into the Radiography Program. The support eases much of the financial pressure on her parents and allows Ramos to concentrate more fully on her education.

“For many students, a scholarship can be the difference between staying in school and having to step away,” Polk State College Foundation Board Chair Bo Boyte said. “By removing financial barriers, we give students like Jocelyn the chance to keep moving toward a degree, a meaningful career, and a more secure future for themselves and their families.”

For Ramos, the scholarship is an investment in a future she has worked toward for years—and an opportunity to honor the sacrifices that made it possible.

“This scholarship is helping me continue my education without placing the full financial burden on my family,” Ramos said. “I am grateful to everyone who believes in students like me and is helping us move closer to the futures we are working to build.”