The Dell Scholars program, an initiative of the Michael & Susan Dell

The Dell Scholars program, an initiative of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, recently

recognized six South Asian American students who have overcome significant obstacles to pursue their education. In turn, the 2011 Dell Scholars serve as positive role models and change for their siblings, friends and their communities.

The Scholars are: Haseeb Ali of Kempner High School in Sugar Land, Texas; Sahil Bawa of John W. North High School in Riverside, Calif.; Sameena Muhammad-Thomas of School for the Talented and Gifted in Dallas, Texas; Shalin Patel of West Valley High School in Hemet, Calif.; Vishra Patel of Village Academy High School at Indian Hill in Pomona, Calif.; and Aruna Singh of Gateway To Health Science High School in Jamaica, New York.

The Dell Scholars receive $20,000 each to complete their higher education over the course of six years.