A Standout Student With an Extraordinary Story
Sitting in her family’s car with her mother just outside Knoxville Catholic High School during lunchtime, Genevieve Jenkins ’26 anxiously held a letter that would determine her next four years. Like many seniors, the college application season is a mix of excitement, anticipation, and the unknown. But for Genevieve, this moment carried a much deeper weight.
For months, she had poured her heart into grueling hours of essays, interviews, and preparation; all for a chance at the QuestBridge National College Match, one of the most competitive scholarship programs in the country. That letter would reveal whether she had been chosen… and whether she had matched with her dream university: the University of Pennsylvania.
QuestBridge, a national nonprofit founded over 30 years ago, connects exceptional students from low-income backgrounds with educational, career, and life-changing opportunities. This year, 2,550 high-achieving seniors matched with QuestBridge’s 55 college partners earning early admission and a full four-year scholarship covering tuition, housing, meals, books, supplies, and travel. No loans. No parent contribution. Just access, opportunity, and the promise of a brighter future.
For Genevieve, who comes from a large, beautiful Catholic family, this opportunity represented something much bigger than a scholarship.
“My mom’s way smarter than she’s ever been allowed to express and never had opportunities like I have. But she always gave me every opportunity to actually succeed. She’s one of the hardest working people I’ve ever met and works around the clock just to make sure that all of us kids have everything we need and so we are able to have a Catholic education.” – Genevieve Jenkins
When the moment finally came, Genevieve and her mother opened the letter together. Tears, joy, disbelief…all at once. She had done it. She had not only earned the full-ride scholarship… she had matched with UPenn.
“Never in 100,000 years did I think I was going to get into an Ivy League school, let alone on a full ride,” she said. “That is the kind of thing that happens to other people. It’s like winning the lottery in terms of academics, but it happened to me, and I’m still in disbelief.”
Her school counselor, Mrs. Kirk, who informed her about the program and supported her throughout the QuestBridge process, shared just how remarkable this accomplishment truly is:
“A QuestBridge Scholar candidate is a unique student. I was very hopeful when I recognized these qualities in Genevieve. However, when I read her essays, I realized that this was more than just a hope; she had a real chance. It was clear that her voice, resilience, and depth of character were something truly special. Watching this life changing opportunity come to fruition for Genevieve has been nothing short of inspiring. It is such a privilege to celebrate her achievement and the bright future that now lies ahead at the University of Pennsylvania.”
Why UPenn and What’s Next?
Choosing a college to rank for QuestBridge is a life-changing decision. It is a binding commitment if matched. Genevieve and her mother spent countless hours researching, talking, and discerning where she would thrive.
UPenn quickly rose to the top.
The university’s rich history captivated her. Founded in 1740, during the earliest days of our nation, UPenn is deeply rooted in American tradition and intellectual legacy. The fact that Benjamin Franklin himself helped found the institution only deepened Genevieve’s admiration.
She was also drawn to the strong graduate-level academic environment. Throughout her years at Knoxville Catholic, Genevieve was inspired by incredible women educators who hold doctorates—Dr. Weedman, Dr. Rizzy, and Dr. Williams. She wanted to continue learning from the best, surrounded by brilliant minds who would challenge and elevate her.
UPenn’s dual language program was another major factor.
“What initially attracted me to UPenn is that they have this dual language program, which allows you to study more than one language at once. I’m already proficient at French, but I’ve always wanted to learn Italian.”
With language at the heart of her goals, Genevieve plans to either attend the Wharton School to pursue international business or attend law school with hopes of joining the International Criminal Court in the Netherlands.
Her passion for law began right here at Knoxville Catholic through Mock Trial, which she has participated in all four years.
Mock Trial also helped her discover something even more personal: that her ADHD, long perceived as a challenge, was actually one of her greatest strengths.
“In mock trial, freshman year, I walked into that room, and all of a sudden, everything that I would get criticized for was what you were supposed to do. You’re supposed to move around the courtroom, have a stage presence, talk to people, and think on your feet. All those things that I’d been told to stop—talk less, sit down, stop thinking a thousand miles a minute—now were my greatest strengths.”
Mock Trial didn’t just sharpen her skills; it helped her understand herself and embrace the gifts and unique characteristics God gave her.
What This Scholarship Means
For Genevieve, being chosen as a QuestBridge Match Scholar is not only a personal victory, it’s a testament to her hard work, academic excellence, leadership, and resilience. It is also a moment of pride for the entire Knoxville Catholic community, reminding all students that their dreams are within reach, no matter what they are facing.
Ready to Take Your Next Step Toward Scholarship Success?
At KCHS, our counseling team walks with students through every step of the scholarship and college application process, from your first questions to your final applications.
Here’s how students can get started:
- Read the Friday Scholarship Email
Every week, Mrs. Lori Kinney sends out a scholarship roundup full of opportunities. Make it a habit to check and apply. - Talk With Your Counselor Early and Often
Juniors can ask about scholarships and planning strategies during their annual meetings.
Seniors work one-on-one with counselors to navigate applications and make sure nothing is overlooked. - Treat Scholarship Applications Like a Part-Time Job
Start early, set weekly goals, and apply consistently. - Use Every Available Resource
From our counselors to online search tools to local and niche scholarships—cast a wide net! - Complete the FAFSA
It’s essential for unlocking financial aid. Treat it as a year-round priority to reduce future debt and stress. - Attend Our “Paying for College Nights“
We host two sessions each year:
– Fall: For senior parents
– Spring: For parents of 9th–11th graders
Save the date: March 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the St. Gregory the Great Auditorium.
These events are invaluable opportunities to learn, ask questions, and feel confident about planning for the future.
Your Future Matters—And We’re Here to Help You Achieve It
Whether you’re dreaming of an Ivy League experience like Genevieve, seeking merit-based opportunities, or charting your own unique path, your KCHS counselors are here to guide you.
Reach out, stay curious, apply boldly—your next step starts now.
