RNY Billboard Showcase 2020

Daniel -- Cibola High School

Before entering high school, I was told by my older siblings that it would fly by. I didn’t realize that four years would seem like a few months and in the next month, I would be graduating. I went into high school already having a plan and knowing the school I wanted to go to. I was going to pursue a degree in Sports Journalism and go to the University of Oregon. 

I kept my journalist dream alive all through high school and continued my college dream up until my senior year. I completely changed my mindset and chose a school I never thought I’d attend.

My dad had attended the University of Arizona and I grew up always holding up a "Bear Down" sign, so when my dad found out I was choosing Arizona State University, he had his opinions about it. He supported me through it though and told me to do what I have to do in order to follow my goal to become a journalist. If it weren’t for AVID, a college preparatory class, I wouldn’t have chosen ASU.

I joined AVID my sophomore year and honestly, I didn’t want to be in it (Sorry, Ms. Palmer). But, I learned year after year, that the class was the only real essential one I was taking. I found out more in my senior year, after doing all of my college applications before the early registration because I knew if I wouldn’t have been in that class, I would’ve lagged on applying. She made scholarships a requirement and graded us on if we did them, which forced me to keep searching and applying. Ms. Palmer was there for me as a teacher and as a friend to help me along my college path. Without her and the college visits she planned for us, I wouldn’t have discovered the possibilities ASU gave to me as a journalist.

Other guidance I received throughout high school was my track coach, Kevin McLean and my boss, Eric Patten. Kevin McLean was my track coach all through high school and he helped and pushed me to earn a big city achievement and led me to state. Although I won’t be pursuing track in college, he gave me much help and gave me opportunities to grow and learn as a person and as an athlete. Eric Patten gave me the opportunity to write and learn how to analyze and construct my own sports articles. He allowed me to learn the basics and be one step ahead when I enter college.

I am proud to be a READY student and I’m excited to be entering the next chapter of my life at the Walter Cronkite Schoolof Journalism at ASU.

Goshlyn -- Gila Ridge High School

When I first started high school, I had no idea what I wanted to be. People told me to become an engineer as I had the skill and the smarts to be one, so I went with that. But when I went to Gila Ridge, I felt like I had more doors opened for me as I was introduced to new activities that I never thought of doing.

Freshman year I took Agriculture. In this class I was able to learn about history, business, welding, building, socializing, the environment, and so much more. The teachers were always friendly and willing to help out a student if they were struggling. It was at this point in my life, that I felt like I found something that I wanted to do. I enjoyed being outside and working in all sorts of jobs. Wilderness Survival was a class similar to the Future Farmers of America (FFA). It taught me to think outside the box and work with the things that I have. It also taught us useful skills like first aid and cooking. It encourages the students to think about their actions and the consequences that come with it. These two classes kept me motivated throughout my high school years, as I was always looking forward to what we were doing that day.

For me, I learn better when I was doing hands-on lessons as it becomes muscle memory. I became more social with kids my age and felt as if it was one big family. Another family I had while in high school, was the Border Patrol Explorers and Girl Scouts. These organizations allowed me to become more confident in myself. I was able to speak with strangers and take a stand for myself, and it got me to exercise. I gained the confidence to stand up for myself, confront a problem when I see one, and I also learned to take responsibility for my actions.

Gila Ridge and all the people associated with it are just one big family that you get to learn from and depend on. This was strongly proven when COVID-19 originally hit. Although no one for sure knew exactly what to do, we helped each other out. We encouraged each other to keep going and to reach our goals. What I learned from Gila Ridge will help me in the long run of life, as I’m now ready to speak and act for myself.

Ricardo -- Kofa High School

Well, to start off, my name is Ricardo Avalos and I graduate on May 22, 2020 from Kofa High School. I am the youngest out of three children and for years I have had many purposes when it comes to computer programming. Throughout my whole high school years, every assignment that I have done helped me a lot. From the first time I was introduced to the Education and Career Action Plan (ECAP), it led me to take a step in planning out for the future of my life.

I am also a Computer Animation 2D & 3D student with Southwest Technical Education District of Yuma (STEDY).  I have now found that Computer Animation has become a high interest of mine and I am considering majoring in Computer Science which requires a Bachelor of Science.  As I research the world of Animation I continue to come across relevant degrees, such as Engineering so I am interested in seeing where my years of college will take me.  I took a Career & Technical Education (CTE) Engineering course and learned a lot, and can see myself as an Engineer as well.  In my now two years in the program I have earned A's and look forward to earning Industry Certification in Adobe After Effects and Autodesk MAYA. 

The next step is to attend Arizona Western College and then transfer to a school that has my major field of study. The greatest reason as to why I am beginning at my local college is the same as that of my peers. AWC is the smart choice for me as it offers us our freshman and sophomore courses at an accessible price. It also allows someone like myself the opportunity to grow as an adult. I will likely transfer to Arizona State University or the University of Arizona to pursue a degree in Computer Animation. After doing that, I will be eligible to get a job that will earn me money so that I can become an independent adult.

I was born with autism.  All of my life I did not realize that I had that kind of disability. I learned about it as a teenager.  I have exhibited different behavior without anyone telling me that I did.  I have one slight difficulty communicating with others. I usually don’t talk to people that much and have been in speech therapy for a couple of years now. I have a lot of friends and enjoy online gaming with others.  Drama club was a great place for me to make good friends.

The use of technology and friendship has greatly motivated me throughout the experience. Every time, I think that I might need help, the internet is always the solution and it is less time consuming. There are a lot of websites that provide useful information or videos that will guide me to success. Being with friends helped me improve my social interaction.  One of my leading characteristics is my punctuality. I have taken AP courses through high school and explored my interests via CTE and Fine Arts classes. As well, as through extracurriculars such as Drama club, Gaming Club and The National Honor Society.  

I would like to thank every teacher and school staff member that has helped me in my life. Their part has led me to become a successful person and start my future.

Sofia -- San Luis High School

My four years at San Luis High School have been the most memorable and unforgettable experiences. Unfortunately, our senior year was cut short, yet the memories will be imprinted forever in my heart. The Class of 2020 will leave a legacy for years to come, and it will only show the strength and perseverance this generation dealt during its tough time. High school has shown me that no matter what obstacle comes in our way, we have to keep moving forward. As I look back to my high school years, I can only be thankful and appreciative to everyone I encountered down the road. San Luis High School has prepared me for my future career in many different ways such as enrolling myself in: Advanced Placement classes, dual enrollment classes, summer programs, and volunteer experiences. I had the chance to really challenge myself, and realize that I’m capable of so much more if I put in the work and dedication to do it.

Throughout high school, I was able to be part of numerous clubs and organizations. However, one of the most impactful for me has been student council. I joined student council during my junior year as a class representative, later becoming student body treasurer in my senior year. This club has made me grow as a student, leader, and most importantly as a person. Being part of something bigger than myself, has taught me the true definition of leadership and commitment. Not only has student council been such an impact, but volunteering as well. I had the opportunity to volunteer at Yuma Regional Medical Center, where I was exposed to the medical field. My dream is to become a registered nurse, and actually volunteering in the hospital gave me the chance to interact with many employees, patients, and visitors. 

I’m grateful for every opportunity I was given, but I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends, teachers, and advisors. Particularly, my parents, who have taught me how to follow my dreams and aspirations with humbleness and gratitude. Without their unconditional love and support, I wouldn’t be the young woman I am today; they teach me to be a better person each day. Furthering my education and striving for success is one of my first steps of repaying my parents for all their sacrifices. I would also like to thank my teachers and advisors, who always believed in me and pushed me to succeed. They gave me the necessary tools I needed to acquire new skills, and expand my knowledge. Also, my friends who never left my side, and were always there for me whenever I needed them.

My next step in education is to continue taking classes at Arizona Western College and transfer to NAU-Yuma where I’m planning to major in Nursing. I’m nervous, yet, excited to close a chapter and begin a new one. I know that it won’t be easy, but with persistence, dedication, and faith anything is possible. My goal is to work at YRMC, and give back to my community as much as I can. 

As our class quote says, “You’re on your own path. And you know what you know. And you are the one who’ll decide where to go.” It is an honor and privilege to represent my school, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of the Class of 2020. 

Once a Sidewinder, always a Sidewinder. 

Daniel -- Vista High School

The journey in high school was a bit bothersome in the beginning but eventually I was able to have a wonderful time during my last two years. I am glad to have been in Vista High School for the last years of high school. The experience prepared me for college by helping me manage my time more wisely and giving me more of an understanding of what college is like. The next step to further my education and career is going to AWC for my associates in arts. What has motivated me throughout my high school experience has to be my family, friends, and all my teachers at Vista. My family has given me support since the beginning and pushed me to do my best in school. Friends who have enjoyed my presence through the years and looking out for me. My teachers at Vista who have guided me through the class and believed in the success of all students. I wish that I was able to stay back at VHS but the world doesn’t stand still and I hope for the best for everyone there. 

A positive influence during these years has been my childhood friend. He is smart, kind, honest, and dependable. Over the years, there is never a dull moment when he is around. He has always encouraged me to graduate at the time I did not feel motivated to show up to school since I had believed it was a waste of time. I believe that we will achieve great things in the road ahead of us and support one another. 

I’m grateful for all the teachers I had during my time at high school. I am happy to have been able to take your class and learn the material even if I missed out on days. The experiences will always be in my mind. 

Breana -- Yuma High School

Author Brian Tracy said, “There are no limits to what you can accomplish, except the limits you place on your own thinking."

As a child I had many aspirations and over time some changed and some stayed the same. I aspire to be many things, one is to be a tattoo artist with my own business. I’ve always dreamt of being a tattoo artist because it takes the meaning of art to a different level and art is something I’ve always had a passion for. Another aspiration is to help the homeless within my community. Helping people is something I personally like doing because we as people need a little help and guidance to get back on the right track. I feel that I can hopefully one day, with the help of my community, help the homeless in Yuma and give them the resources and guidance they need to work towards having a better life for themselves. The last is to be a good leader and role model for my little sister, my nephew, and many others as well to the best of my ability. I want to inspire and motivate them to go after their goals and aspirations and for them to know and believe that they can and will get past any and every obstacle and adversity that stands in their way.

Planning for my future has been one of the most stressful and thrilling moments of my life. I remember when I first started planning for life after high school and choosing what it was I wanted to be and have a career in. My mind and heart are both set on becoming a tattoo artist with my own tattoo shop and that is exactly what I will do, but before that I’m set on college first. I plan to attend Arizona Western College for two years to start my associates in art and my degree in business and then I will transfer to Arizona State University and finish the last two years there. At the same time, hopefully, I will also be apprenticing at a local tattoo shop in order to expand my knowledge and skills of being a tattoo artist the proper way. I also plan on going to art school to better my artistic and creative skills as well as gain a bigger background in art. Although I love to create art in many different mediums I also love reading because it helps me stay creative and maintain my imagination. I recently took up writing as a new hobby and it’s really interesting and exciting to me because it opens the door to many different possible stories and it allows me to express myself on paper like my drawings and potentially connect with others. I enjoy cooking and baking, I love music, and playing sports because I like to challenge myself physically to stay active. I enjoy doing so much and learning new things and it helps keep me going and it gives me more to do. 

As a senior looking back at my four years of high school at Yuma High School it amazes me at just how much I’ve experienced, how much I’ve learned, and how much I’ve changed as a student and a person. To me I feel that from my experience at Yuma High I can and will take with me not only the general knowledge of my classes, but also the many life lessons my teachers and peers have helped me learn, the many different friendships and connections I’ve made with everyone I had the joy of getting to know, the communication and professional skills I gained from my Career & Technical Education class, Academic Decathlon, and soccer, and most importantly the many memories I had the opportunity of making and the school pride I have gained.

As a graduating student and young adult everything I’ve accomplished and have been a part of here at Yuma High has taught me to never give up on whatever I do because I have to be determined to finish strong, persistent in achieving the outcome I want, and to believe in myself that I can do anything and everything I set my mind to.