Student Spotlight: Emil Sanchez Zuniga

Emil Sanchez Zuniga is the 2024 recipient of Phi-Delta’s President’s Service Award. The Sorority and Fraternity President’s Service Awards are new scholarships awarded to the president of each sorority and fraternity at Texas State.

Emil grew up in Honduras as the only child to a single mom. They immigrated to the United States when Emil was a child and lived in Vermont before moving to Texas.

“It was just me and my mom growing up,” Emil said. “When I told my mom that I got this scholarship, she was really happy.”

Emil is now a sophomore at Texas State majoring in economics. He joined Phi-Delta to gain leadership experience before going to grad school. He was elected vice president as a freshman, and this year he was elected president. This year, Emil is responsible for recruitment, planning events, philanthropy, committee meetings, and external operations.

“This award might seem small compared to tuition and housing,” Emil said. “But if you can take a little off your plate, it helps a lot.”

Emil receives FAFSA to help pay for his courses, but he does have to take out loans for student living. The President’s Service Award helps reduce Emil’s cost of living. Emil says awards like this might encourage more people to run for leadership positions in Greek life.

“This award really does help a lot of people,” Emily said. “I know others have the capability to become president but don’t want to put themselves in that position because of finances.”