RNY Billboard Showcase 2024
Each year Yuma Union High School District selects 12 students to represent the school district and its Ready Now Yuma initiative on billboards throughout Yuma County. The 12 students (two from each of the district's six high school graduating classes) are all seniors, who will graduate as part of the Class of 2024. They imbue the overall mission of Ready Now Yuma, which strives to prepare EVERY student in YUHSD for career, college, and the community during their high school years. Below are personal essays each student shared as part of the selection process:
Patrick -- Yuma High School
My enthusiasm for engineering began when I was working on vehicles with my father. Seeing the trouble my father had to go through to perform simple maintenance or repair a small part, inspired me to become an automotive engineer. My goal is to design and develop car systems and technology that are not only easy to use but easy to repair. My father always has wanted the best for me, and always told me education was a way to achieve that. His values of hard work and dedication were instilled in me and my mother made sure that I kept distractions to a minimum so I could focus on my education. My family has been an extremely positive influence on my high school experience and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
My father always has wanted the best for me, and always told me education was a way to achieve that. His values of hard work and dedication were instilled in me.
After COVID restrictions were over and school had returned to its original schedule, I found myself a bit overwhelmed by classes and the workload. I was a freshman and I had no idea what a high school schedule was like. We transitioned from half days where teachers could only teach so much due to 45-minute online classes to full-time instruction. I was unprepared for what an original high school day was like. I was determined to master what I was being taught, and with the guidance of family and friends, I was able to get back on track by staying on top of my classes and workload.
As a Northern Arizona University Lumberjack, I aspire to become an automotive engineer. This has been a dream of mine and has been fueled by a love of car technology and the engineering that goes behind it. One day, I would like to work in the racing industry and design racing systems and technology that are competitive on the national circuit.
Emily -- Vista High School
When I started high school, I was so excited for what my experience would bring to me, but after a while I started to drown in the mix of it. Juggling academic, social and home life as well as playing volleyball became more than I wanted to deal with as an immature freshman. At that age we are so prone to being influenced by others and unfortunately I was around some bad influences and I got suspended my sophomore year and sent to Strategies for Success (SFS). I did not know what would come from it, but was excited for the change in scenery. Going through the SFS suspension program assured me that my life was going on the right track because it made me look at my school as a tool instead of a burden. I have grown so much since. After the SFS program I knew I had to go to Vista High School.
Everyone wants you to succeed at Vista and it feels like each teacher really cares about each student. Vista made my education personal, something that a big campus lacked. It definitely offered me more opportunities and I feel that was a huge part of my success. When I joined Vista I signed up for leadership/Student Council and that enabled me to take charge in not only my own education but also could help improve the school lives for others. In StuCo we did a lot of work to get what the students pushed for. Organizing fun activities and fundraisers, as well as sparking new ideas for the next classes to take over. My second year at Vista, my senior year, I was elected president. While at Vista, I reinstated the garden club and I hope that people will continue to care for the garden like I did. I went from having nothing on my plate to having everything on my plate. It’s crazy how far you can get with a little effort and communication. Keeping busy made me focused on my future and not distractions.
My motivation comes from wanting to make my family proud, but also having a good impact on the world. I'd rather leave it better than I found it, so I strive to always learn and educate and communicate with people learning and teaching at every experience. Having to take care of my beautiful daughter, Sofia, really kicked me into gear with getting my own money and building a home for her so I'm working on that 24/7. When I got pregnant, I started to really think about what I was eating and putting on my skin and what I would put on my baby's skin. I couldn't handle the thought that what we would be using every day could be harmful to us because extra ingredients aren't needed.
Instead, I make all natural and eco-friendly soap that is gentle on all skin types and where all the ingredients have a purpose that you're looking for, be it a dish soap, hard disinfectant, or a gentle baby soap. I wanted things to be cleaned right so I had to make my own soap. With the real plant materials we can clean our space without getting harmful chemicals in our bodies and in our waterways. I am a firm believer that nature has everything we need in its raw form. I made soap and my friends and family loved it. My sister is my biggest consumer. I should really start making her pay for it. I love the scientific part of what I do. It's quite fun coming up with new recipes but also the business-woman part as well. I want to be an entrepreneur and expand my business into more.
While at Vista I had the privilege to work in the office and witnessing more interactions has really helped me expand my horizons. The student worker program is a great resource to teach work ethic and have exposure to customer service. Being at the front has taught me how to react to situations quicker. Working at the school has introduced me to working with childcare as well. Vista’s amazing counseling staff making connections helped me reach an organization in Yuma called Healthy Families at our resource fair we hold and I just had to mention them because the work they do is so helpful when raising my baby. They teach about child development and this is also the path I'm interested in taking as work over this summer. Vista supported me in every move I made. I know there's a lot of paths that I can go down. I'm still debating, but I know there's a lot open. Vista tells me I can do it all, so I just might.
Carlos -- San Luis High School
Most of the time we gravitate towards things we deem scarce. Other times we do the same towards the most bountiful of things. Generally, opportunity is what leads us to such decisions. I'm currently striving for a major in Crop Production, influenced by something that is abundantly seen throughout Yuma County, and one of its distinguishingly renowned features - agriculture. I've grown with the radiantly green agricultural fields on the horizon all my life.
All I'd known and thought about was agriculture for most of my life. I've been around working in agricultural fields in my four years of being in the Agriscience course provided by San Luis High School, where I've learned a lot about agricultural processes. I've learned of all the intricacies that are involved in the process from seed to crop to consumer. As part of the Agricultural Science curriculum we manage and develop the amphitheater, which has scenic purposes, and the land lab, primarily used for the cultivating and harvesting of sweet corn and other produce. My Wildlife peers as well as the discipline of fulfilling standards are efficient motivators (and some David Goggins never really hurt anybody) towards the completion of all duties I've encountered throughout my high school career.
Having more involvement in the Career and Technical Student Organization of Agriscience, Future Farmers of America ( FFA), is what brought me more security and awareness towards selecting my major. This has affected my life objectives because I'm always striving to be a better contributor so that endpoints are met decisively and efficiently. Thanks to this club and the Agriscience course, I'm more aware of the career I'd like to pursue, and the general process that one must complete. Otherwise, I'd have no clear career objective, with no complementary goals to follow suit. We consistently host meetings, where we discuss the events we'd like to organize at the school and we methodically outline the schedule along with other supplementary materials.
Julieanna -- Kofa High School
I have always been mindful of myself and everyone around me. Academics are extremely important to me. I strive to always put myself out there and become a better version of myself every day. With this being said, this is my reasoning in pursuing a degree in teaching: helping others, while utilizing my skills of mindfulness.
During my sophomore year of high school I started to struggle a lot with my own personal mental health. I joined and participated in athletics activities, which made me become very skinny and weak. This took a toll on my friendships causing most of my peers to fade away from my life. I thought my friends were going to read my mind and know what was going on in my life, but they did not. This caused me to become distant; I was not receiving what I wanted in others. From that day on, I always told myself that I will always be mindful of myself and others as I did not want anyone to have my experience.
As of now I am using this trait when pursuing my current relationships. I want my family and friends to know that I am always going to be there for them for the better or worse. I plan to be mindful of how they are feeling and how my words can affect them. I love to listen to what people have to offer me, it is inspiring. Being mindful helps me strive to be more ambitious in life. For example, on a dark night about seven years ago, I remember hearing my parents arguing; when I went to secretly check on them they were not arguing, but instead mourning. I thought to myself, “who died?” It turns out my dad was diagnosed with Laryngeal. I felt a moment of dread, I knew what was going to occur. I was conscious of what I was feeling at that moment. I could not do anything, just sit with my own personal thoughts and wait for what was to come next.
I plan to use this trait for the career I am planning to pursue. I plan to become an educator; being an educator requires a lot of patience. I will always be considerate to my future students and acknowledge that they are just kids and they may have their own personal struggles. I will never judge anyone, let alone students who are just trying their best.
Robert -- Gila Ridge High School
Going into high school, I expected nothing but a much more intense level of education and a harsher learning environment. However, after spending four consecutive years at Gila Ridge High School, I can attest that I was wrong. Gila Ridge High School has properly prepared me for college and higher learning. By having the ability to enroll in classes that relate to my desired career, I was able to get ahead with my curriculum. Those classes also provided me with the opportunity to get an insider look into the industry I am interested in. The classes and subjects offered at Gila Ridge have equipped me with the knowledge and familiarity of the higher learning experience. Being dual-enrolled with Arizona Western College has also allowed me to learn first-hand what college looks like.
More than once in my four years have I been motivated to further myself in whatever it is that I am doing, all due to my teachers.
Teachers and instructors at Gila Ridge make it their personal mission to excel young students forward, constantly motivating them to push themselves. More than once in my four years have I been motivated to further myself in whatever it is that I am doing, all due to my teachers. After-school tutoring and putting aside time in class to review and ask questions are just some of the many ways instructors reach out to their students. Teachers like Mrs. Sawyer in the Math department, Ms. Prude in the English department, and Mr. O'Brien in the Fine Arts department have all been beacons of assistance in their respective classes. Having those teachers around my learning environment has been a necessary component of my graduating from high school. To know they are always reachable for even the slightest of questions is a huge assurance to any pupil. Instructors like them are critical to the success of anybody.
Overcoming the obstacles, such as heavy nights staying up to study, stressing about finals, or even simply gathering the strength to make it to first period on time was arduous. Although difficult, I found time and time again that my consistent efforts were worth it in the end. To see a “C” jump to an “A”, or to receive a test back with only a few minor errors truly was satisfying, and felt as though the weight of the world was now off my shoulders. Gila Ridge High School was able to sufficiently prepare me for the challenges of higher education that lie ahead of me, and I graduate confidently knowing that I showed the best effort I could in this stage of my education.
Katelynn -- Cibola High School
When I was first told I was selected for this role I asked myself, “Why me?” My name is Katelynn Lugo, I'm a senior at Cibola High School and I am still figuring out who I am. For me, high school was a dream I never thought would be a reality. My freshman year was during the pandemic of 2020 and right before that it felt like my life hit a wall. In December of 2019, I was in a horrible car accident and I almost lost my life. Many doctors told me and my family that my life in general was over. I was told I was never going to get my license, attend high school, never graduate and walk again, I was going to be stuck in a bed for the rest of my life. I was 14 years old and I didn’t believe what these doctors told me. I didn't want to allow what others told me to change my life. I wanted to be in control of my own life. I took the craziness of quarantine in 2020 to get better, stronger, and I made it to high school. I had my ups and downs but I pushed through. Smiling and soaking up every second because for me it almost didn’t happen.
High school has taught me valuable lessons. Some of it was from the curriculum my teachers taught me but it was more from the interactions I had with the others around me. The biggest lesson I learned was the importance of a conversation. Conversation is one of the big qualities my generation lacks. We lack person-to-person conversations and being able to communicate with others on a personal level. I used to be very shy, I would hide behind my dad's leg and just smile and nod or stare at people when I didn't know what to say. Most of the time I wouldn't say anything. Growing up I was never the smartest kid in the room or the most athletic, the prettiest or the funniest. I never felt like I fit into a category or that I could label myself into a certain stereotype of a person. This is part of the reason I was surprised to be selected for this role because I don’t fit a specific stereotype. If anything I blend into the crowd I keep my head down and I answer when talked to. I do try to be kind to others, and I don’t try to stand out because when I do stand out I end up making a fool of myself.
Now that I am older and have made it this far, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm motivated and comfortable with just being me. I want to do so much more in my life than what I thought was originally possible. I want to continue to use my voice to motivate others like I have these last two years. Both my junior and senior years I have been a Yuma County 4-H Ambassador, as well as the Elected President in my 4-H club and this has had the most impact and influence in my life. In both roles I am obligated to speak to children, teens, and adults. Being able to speak to different age groups and carry conversations is one of the strongest skills I've learned and will carry with me after high school and into my career. It's also helped me with one of the biggest obstacles of being dyslexic. I do not comprehend or pick up a new curriculum as fast as the normal person. Working around it and not letting it stop me is something I learned during high school. I plan to continue my education at Arizona Western College. I'm not sure what I want to do just yet but I love learning. I’m interested in the border patrol and forestry and wildlife management.
I know I am a hard worker. I work hard for the things I care about and when I think I can do something I don’t just want to do, I want to be great at it. Whether it's school, an assignment, my grades, my art, the way I treat people, the way I dress or the way I act. Maybe that was because I was very competitive as a kid, something I learned in high school, or that my parents taught me, but I know being a hard worker is something I will always be. I can work circles around people and I'm proud of it. I said at the beginning that I am still figuring out who I am and that I don't fit into a category or stereotype because I am a lot of things. I am a hard worker but I love to take naps. I am a leader and a strong one but I am also a team player and I know when to take a seat and let someone else take the reins. I am very kind and I'm considered a sweet person but I will never let someone hurt me or the people around me so when I need to buck up and be the bigger person I will. I am strong. I can throw a bale of hay over my head if I have to but I will definitely ask one of my male friends to move something if it's over 15 pounds. I'm funny or at least I think I am. I'm forgetful and may not remember a name, but if you tell me a secret I will hold it tight and not repeat it.
I want to end by saying, thank you. Thank you to everyone who has helped me get to this point in my life. I am who I am today because of everyone who has touched my life.
Amber -- Yuma High School
My first year at Yuma High School was exciting and nerve-wracking. I was nervous about change and what would lie ahead. Growing up, I was a shy kid and kept my circle small, so being given the option to stay home during COVID was relieving. I kept up with schoolwork and spent a lot of time with my family. Unfortunately, that year, I lost my older cousin and it was really heart-wrenching. He was the closest in age to me and I looked to him for guidance but suddenly I was the oldest grandkid rather than the second oldest. I knew I had to continue to work hard and set an example for my younger siblings and cousins. It was scary. I have a big, close family and the main thing I cared about was breaking the comfort barrier for them and trying to be a positive influence.
Sophomore year was a growing point for me as I was now taking part in in-person learning and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I continued being in Student Council, which helped me become more outgoing. I will always be grateful for StuCo for making it mandatory to attend every event because I no longer viewed it as an assignment but as an opportunity to cherish high school memories with friends.
I began working part-time which also broke me out of my shell. I was no longer scared to talk to new people and learned to manage my time while getting good grades. Junior and senior years were the highlight of my high school experience as I met the greatest people I know and learned a lot about myself. I learned that being scared of change was okay. I learned to be open-minded to enjoy new memories and meet new friends because little did I know how many memories I would make and new people I would meet.
From a young age, I felt the pressure to surpass my own high standards. Even if I was doing well, I felt the need to do more. Although I put pressure on myself, it helped me find a balance between school, work, and friends. Throughout high school, I have been grateful for my wonderful support system that pushed me to do my best. Even when I didn’t believe in myself, my family and friends always did. My goals after high school are to attend Arizona Western College to study accounting and transfer to Arizona State University. I found it difficult to decide what to study because this decision would impact my future. I considered different careers, but nothing stuck. I knew for sure that I loved math. I can say confidently that I had great math teachers who made me love to go to class. I felt accounting would be a good fit because of the opportunities it provides and it involves a subject I am comfortable with. I know this next chapter in my life is going to be hard for me, but I can say that I am prepared for what is to come next. High school has been the best years of my life, but I am ready to make my family proud and start my next path. Knowing that I am graduating amongst my friends makes it all worth it.
Raul -- Vista High School
My name is Raul De La Torre and my journey throughout highschool was everything. Enduring the trials and tribulations of online school during the COVID-19 pandemic was extremely difficult for many of us. It did not get any easier for me because I chose not to do the work that had been assigned. Eventually, I fell behind on a mountain of credits, missing out on my sophomore and junior year in the process. My senior year was when I finally went back to in-person school. A few months into the new semester my counselor advised me to switch schools in order to catch up on my credits and graduate on schedule. Vista High School was at the top of his recommendations for their outstanding teachers and their credit recovery program. I transferred to Vista two weeks later in the middle of October 2022.
Transferring schools is one of the best decisions I could have made for myself. Not only were the classroom sizes much smaller, but the quality of teaching and the tight knit feeling of the entire school was marvelous. I quickly grew comfortable in all of my classes. However, I managed to excel in each and every one. The Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes offered at Vista were by far one of my favorite things. The Business Management CTE class allowed me and my classmates to take trips to Phoenix and Tucson for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competitions and seminars. Later on, I earned many certifications through my Mental and Social Health CTE class as well as the opportunity to sit in a mental health court meeting. Without Vista and its many opportunities for students, I and many others would not have been able to experience such outings.
Towards the end of my senior year at Vista, my counselor brought to my attention that I could not graduate with the rest of my class because of my lack of credits. She recommended that I sign up for the summer school program for credit recovery, and so I spent my summer working on earning credits. When the new semester began I was only a couple of credits away from graduating. I spent the rest of that semester, with words of encouragement and motivation, finishing up my remaining missing credits. In December 2023, I had the opportunity to walk the line and graduate. Eternally thankful, I cannot begin to describe my gratitude towards the teachers at Vista, who show up every day with an attitude to help students graduate. A warm thank you to everyone at Vista High School who helped me on my journey to graduation.
Brisa -- San Luis High School
As I wrap up my senior year, I'm reflecting on where life has taken me over these past few years. High school has been a wild journey. Certain days have gone by slowly, yet the months went by in the blink of an eye. As I was entering freshman year, I knew I wanted to join sports. Once the year started, I decided to join Cross Country and Track and Field. Joining allowed me to grow as a person and I committed all four years. My two coaches, Mr. Garcia and Mr. Villa never missed an opportunity to push me to my fullest potential. I know for a fact that high school would not have been the same without being involved in sports. Being a part of sports has been important because it is part of my journey. It has helped me both physically and mentally.
I initiated Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes during my freshman year of high school. It gave me a head start and allowed me to think about what I wanted to be when I grew up. I started with Digital Photography and managed to complete the two-year course. Within those two years, I became a CTE ambassador and had the opportunity to attend several conferences through SkillsUSA. I traveled to Washington, D.C. for the Leadership Conference and this experience allowed me to expand my leadership and communication skills. I was able to speak with students across the nation and learn from peers, too. SkillsUSA has become a huge part of my high school experience because I had no idea the variety of doors it would open for me. Through the years, I explored other courses as well such as Nursing and Law and Public Safety. My teachers informed me about an internship at the Fire Department through CO-OP which fully intrigued me. Nursing was always my primary career choice, so I saw this as a chance to start gaining experience in the medical field. The fire service was a completely new concept for me. As I kept attending and doing ride time with EMTs and firefighters, I realized it was a career I liked. After competing for regionals and state for firefighting, I reflected on my overall performance. This new experience allowed me to realize that I wanted this as a career.
The Emergency Medical Services and Fire Service program pushed my physical strength and endurance to perform their duties effectively. It requires mental toughness, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. As graduation approaches, I have my mind set on attending Arizona Western College in hopes of obtaining both EMT and Fire certifications. I plan on transferring and continuing my education and pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and hopefully, later earn a master's degree as well. I hope to one day become a physical therapist.
Overall, my high school journey was memorable. This time is extremely important to any teen as it shapes us and allows us to grow as individuals. I have always surrounded myself with positive friends. Their positivity has impacted my life and influenced me greatly. Both friends and family, as well as teachers, have played a significant role in providing me with invaluable support throughout my life these past few years.
I look forward to the future and seeing myself accomplish all the goals and dreams I have set for myself. I have been fortunate enough to have a great support system like my mom and sister. They have guided me and pushed me to not only continue my education but to follow my dreams and aspirations. I owe it to my mom, the woman who has been the best support system and the light at the end of the tunnel.
Cristian -- Kofa High School
Arriving in Yuma, at the age of 12 from Guatemala, I was filled with uncertainty about where life would lead me. Little did I know that this journey would lead to the opportunities that have brought me to where I am today. During my time at Kofa High School, I immersed myself in various programs such as Biomedical Technology, Engineering, and Medical Assistant training at Southwest Technical Education District of Yuma (STEDY). Through these experiences, I assumed leadership roles, acquired hands-on skills, and cultivated traits of discipline, responsibility, and a profound sense of duty toward others. Additionally, my involvement in SkillsUSA and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) opened up diverse paths toward my desired career. High school served as a testing ground where I could explore my passions, learn from failures, and acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for success in university and beyond.
My next endeavor involves attending Arizona State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Following graduation, I plan to intern to acquire practical experience in the field. Subsequently, I aim to secure a position as a mechanical engineer, where I will diligently work under the guidance of seasoned professionals for four years, honing my skills and preparing to obtain my professional engineering license. Ultimately, I envision myself as a fully licensed mechanical engineer, poised to establish my own company and chart my entrepreneurial journey.
What propels me forward is my vision of myself a decade from now, fully realized as a mechanical engineer, relentlessly striving to embody the future version of myself that I envision. Through the peaks and valleys of life, I consistently contemplate the success of my future self. Moreover, being a first-generation student fuels my motivation, as I aspire to serve as a beacon of inspiration for foster youth, drawing upon my own experiences within the foster care system.
Yet, my journey would have been vastly different without the unwavering support of my foster mom. She consistently provides guidance, backs my decisions, extends her assistance in any way possible, and ensures I have transportation, often giving me rides to school for after-hours meetings. My foster mom's steadfast presence has been a cornerstone of my life, always offering her help to the best of her abilities. Equally pivotal is my Career and Technical Education (CTE) advisor and teacher, Mrs. Mackell, to whom I owe immense gratitude for her unwavering belief in me. She has given me invaluable opportunities, such as serving as a CTE Ambassador and advocating for CTE in Washington, D.C. Her encouragement has propelled me forward, reaffirming my confidence in myself as I navigate my path. Additionally, I am grateful for the guidance and support of my counselors, Mrs. Beck and Mrs. Rebek, who not only helped and encouraged me to apply for scholarships but also supported me in completing college classes. They aided me in preparing for university, reviewing everything to ensure I had all the necessary requirements in place.
Throughout high school, language barriers proved to be my greatest challenge. Despite having a grasp of English, I encountered difficulties pronouncing certain words, often leading to misunderstandings during communication. I frequently found myself needing to repeat phrases until my message was understood. Despite my efforts to translate words internally for better comprehension, I still faced struggles. However, with perseverance, I began to notice gradual improvement over time. Despite these hurdles, I take immense pride in acknowledging that each experience has contributed to my journey towards achieving my goals. And thus, I firmly believe that I am READY.
Sofia -- Gila Ridge High School
My high school experience has not only better prepared me for college or my future career, but has also been a huge part of shaping who I am today. Throughout my years in high school, I have encountered many challenges and opportunities that have given me valuable skills and experiences that will continue to benefit me in the future. From navigating rigorous dual enrollment classes at Arizona Western College to being a student worker to participating in extracurricular activities, high school has provided me with a solid foundation for the academic and personal growth that has left me feeling prepared for the next step in my life.
The relationships I have formed with teachers, peers, and school staff have given me a support system that has encouraged me to push myself beyond my comfort zone and pursue my aspirations with confidence and determination. My next step is to attend Grand Canyon University and graduate with a Masters degree in social work so I can practice therapy and advance my career. Choosing social work as my field of study came naturally since I had known at a young age I wanted to pursue a career in helping others. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities facing challenges.
The unwavering support and guidance of YUHSD's dedicated educators and administrators have been a huge part of my growth and success. Teachers like Mr. Brown, my AVID teacher, Mrs. Prude, my 11th grade English teacher, and Mrs. Lee, my counselor, who has consistently gone above and beyond to help me grow and give me a supportive learning environment. Their encouragement and mentorship have played a huge part in shaping my academic journey and instilling in me a passion to pursue my goals.
Despite facing obstacles along the way, from late nights of studying to the stress of my AWC classes, my perseverance has been rewarded time and again. Witnessing my hard work pay off, whether it's seeing my grades improve or knowing that all the time I spent working on my general education for college, has been incredibly gratifying and all worth it knowing that I saved money and a year and a half of college that I would have had to do if I hadn’t taken the dual enrollment classes. Yes, at times it was hard to stay motivated but I am so thankful now and know that it was all worth it!
Isaiah -- Cibola High School
Cibola High School has done more than prepare me for Arizona State University and the United States Marine Corps. It has taught me valuable life lessons over the last three years.
As a military kid, I have been moved several times in only a few years. In one instance, my family and I moved three times in three years due to military orders and natural disasters (a tree fell through our house). Every time I moved, I had a different house, which I will forever be grateful for, but I never had a city to call home. Until I moved back to Yuma, Arizona, where I was born.
I came to Cibola during my sophomore year when all students were allowed to come back on campus, recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. I was very anxious when I first arrived, but my anxiety was washed away when I was befriended by so many people, both staff and students. Coming here was a culture shock because prior, I attended schools on a military base, which meant being surrounded by other military students who shared my military experiences.
At Cibola High School, I met people from many different backgrounds, and had the privilege of listening to their stories. It shocked me how others could endure serious hardships and still share the biggest smiles. My eyes were opened to how we all struggle, some more than others, but if we help each other, we will see the light of day and, most importantly, be the light in someone else’s day. My parents are living proof of this, and they are also my biggest motivators because when they had nothing all they needed was each other. They always tell me stories of how they financially struggled when I was just a baby and how they learned to enjoy the taste of instant ramen noodles because it was what they could afford. Though times were tough, my parents’ love for each other was stronger.
My motivation comes not from my parents’ strength and resilience but from hoping that maybe one day I will find love as strong and pure as theirs. As I approach graduation, I hope I have made my parents proud and that I have positively impacted others the way Cibola High School has impacted me.