What school will you be attending in the Fall?
Judson University
What Major will you study?
Architecture with a minor in Art
What is the most important thing you learned in high school?
I learned to learn. I learned that it is not the responsibility of the teacher for one to learn, but the students’ job to stay engaged in every opportunity. I learned that this comes with discipline and determination. That a student can have the best teacher in the world but if the student has no willpower to even try, they will get nowhere. Knowing to stay engaged in class is important to me because it is something that I can take everywhere in life. It helps me as a person to know how to listen and learn from other people.
What is your favorite high school memory?
My favorite memory was helping at EN2 during my lunch period. EN2 is the room where special needs students are taught and taken care of. These memories were amazing because I saw that they really longed for other students’ company. I enjoyed reading books to them and pushing their chairs around the building. I will never forget their genuine and heartwarming smiles.
What is your best advice to future first-generation students?
You can do it. Take the opportunities because if you don’t, then who will? Don’t give up. Simply push forward and talk to mentors, teachers, counselors and any advisors about questions because it will take some weight off your shoulders. Don’t be afraid to change an unsuccessful pattern. You are marking the beginning of a new generation for the rest of your family, so be proud.
What is a challenge that you have overcome as a first-generation college student?
“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it,” said Charles R Swindoll. Growing up in a domestic violence home was difficult. As my mother spoke no English and was not informed about most things, she still encouraged me to follow through with my education. I mainly struggled with being confident in myself about what I could achieve and being the first-generation worried me more. To break out of my shell, I got involved in my community by volunteering with many programs and organizations. I overcame this adversity by challenging myself to push to my full potential. I understood that my actions were what was determining my future and not where I was at the moment. Being first-generation has made me proud because I can be an example to many students in the same situations.
What does it mean to you to receive the Superintendent’s Scholarship?
To me, this scholarship is a helping hand to reach my dreams and goals. My new challenge has been to pursue higher education without leaving a financial burden on my family. I want them to be excited about my education while being financially confident that it’s possible. This scholarship is a fuel to keep pursuing my visions. It is a blessing to know that other people are willing to support me as well.
