1. Tell us a little about yourself — where do you go to school, and what's something people might be surprised to learn about you?
My name is Lylah St. Peter, and I recently graduated from Trinity Valley School in Fort Worth. This fall, I will be attending the University of South Carolina. Throughout high school, I was involved in varsity field hockey, basketball, track, and golf while also taking on leadership roles and community service with NCL. I love being busy and doing things both in and out of the classroom. Something people might be surprised to learn about me is that I’m left-handed, while both of my parents are right-handed, which has always made me feel a little unique.
2. You're a patient at Perkins Orthodontics. What has your experience there been like, and how did you first hear about the scholarship?
I’ve had a great experience with Perkins Orthodontics over the years. Everyone in the office is always friendly, and they do a great job of making patients feel welcome. Going to appointments never felt like a hassle because the staff genuinely cares about their patients. I first heard about the scholarship through Perkins Orthodontics and thought it was such a cool opportunity. I really appreciate that they support students not only through orthodontic care but also by investing in their education and future goals.
3. Beyond the classroom, what activities or causes have you been most involved in, and which have meant the most to you?
Outside the classroom, athletics played a major role in my high school experience. I competed in varsity field hockey, which taught me teamwork, resilience, and discipline. I was also heavily involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Student Visionaries of the Year campaign, where I helped raise over $12,000 for blood cancer research and support services. Additionally, I served as President of Trojan Sisterhood, a mentorship group at TVS focused on building connections between freshman and senior students.
4. Your essay focused on your goals and aspirations after high school. Can you walk us through what you wrote about and what inspired that vision?
In my essay, I wrote about my passion for combining business and athletics into a future career. As a student-athlete, I have always been fascinated by the impact sports have on individuals, teams, and communities. Through my experiences, internships, and community involvement, I discovered a strong interest in the business side of athletics. These opportunities showed me how much happens behind the scenes to help athletes succeed. They inspired me to pursue a career where I can combine my love of sports with business.
5. Where do you see yourself headed next — college, a particular field of study, a career path? What's drawing you in that direction?
I plan to study finance at the University of South Carolina while exploring opportunities related to sports management and the business side of athletics. My long-term goal is to attend law school and eventually become a private sports agent. I am drawn to that career because it combines my interests in business, leadership, and sports.
6. How will this scholarship directly impact your ability to reach those goals, and what does it mean for you and your family?
This scholarship will help reduce some of the financial stress that comes with pursuing a college education. It will allow me to focus more fully on my academics and opportunities while at South Carolina. Beyond the financial benefits, receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor and a vote of confidence in my future. Knowing that others believe in my goals motivates me even more. My family and I are extremely grateful for the generosity of Perkins Orthodontics.
7. Who or what has shaped the person you are today — a mentor, a teacher, a family member, or a defining experience?
My dad, Jerry St. Peter, has had the biggest impact on who I am today. Growing up, people would tell us we looked identical, but besides just looks, he has always encouraged me to work hard, stay confident, and never be afraid to take on new challenges. I watched him lead by example and put his family first while still achieving his own goals. He has taught me the importance of perseverance, integrity, and treating people with respect. Many of the values that guide me today came from watching the way he approaches both work and life.
8. What do you love most about growing up in the West Fort Worth community?
What I love most about West Fort Worth is the strong sense of community. Whether through schools, athletics, or local businesses. Growing up here has given me opportunities to learn from mentors, develop lifelong friendships, and give back to causes I care about. I am so grateful for the experiences and relationships that West Fort Worth has given me.