BEYOND WYWLA

What year did you graduate from WYWLA?

I graduated from WYWLA in 2023. 

How long were you at WYWLA?

I started WYWLA in 6th grade and attended for all 7 years.

Why did you choose WYWLA? What were some things you had in mind to get out of WYWLA? Did you? Who were your biggest influences at WYWLA?

Since I first toured WYWLA in fifth grade, I knew that WYWLA would be my second home. I loved how WYWLA was leadership focused and I knew there was a lot of opportunity to grow as a leader within the school. I liked the small environment where teachers could focus more on each student as I learned better with an individualized plan. A family friend had her son graduate from WYMLA so my family and I had heard all the benefits of an early college and leadership school combined. I have been able to learn from amazing staff and students all from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Teachers like Mrs. Watkins, Mrs. Solomon and more have made a positive impact on my educational career. They encouraged me to participate and engage with my community and have allowed me to continue loving to learn. 

What are some of the biggest lessons you learned at WYWLA?

My biggest lesson that I was able to learn at WYWLA is how to value myself. Many times people can make us feel less than but at WYWLA I was able to grow and become more confident within myself to better advocate for myself and others. I found that being able to value yourself can lead you to better opportunities and experiences. The things that are for you will find you if you are willing to accept yourself. In the end, the only person that has the best interest for your future is yourself and I needed these lessons to thrive in my current environment. 

What were you involved in during your high school years? 

I was involved in the National Honor Society (Secretary), Student Government Association (Freshman Representative, Student Body Vice President, Student Body President), Parent, Teacher, Student Association, Future Business Leaders of America (Media Coordinator; State Placer), Student Ambassadors, New Student Camp Counselors, and Mock Trial (Co-Founder). I am grateful to have had most, if not all staff members be my backbone while at WYWLA. Each staff member was very unique in how they championed me. I wish I could talk about everyone, but it would take a book to fully express their impact on my life. 

Approximately how many college credits did you earn through our partnership with St. Augustine’s University?

I earned about 42 college credits through the partnership with St. Augustine’s University. 

Why did you choose Political Science as a Major? What is your career goal? 

Since I was a little girl, I had always been curious about the government and the impact civilians have on it. Political Science has always interested me and that is the main reason I chose it as a major. I am on the Pre-Business and Pre-Law track both to assist in my future endeavors. After getting my degrees in Political Science and Business I hope to study law. I am not so sure what my career goals are at the moment, I am still looking for a career where I can learn about all of my interests. I am so excited for what the future brings.  

What advice would you offer to our 6th grade OWLS, 9th grade OWLS, and our senior OWLS?

6th grade- Do not rush the process to grow up. Many times we wish we were older but enjoy the current moment because it is a gift, that's why it's called the present. Be creative and express yourself. Read books and learn to love these years in your childhood. Although you might have more responsibility, it does not mean you cannot enjoy being a kid. 

9th grade- Learn all aspects of you. Learn what you like and don’t like. Learn how you best study and how you best learn. Learn what motivates you and what scares you. Learn how you push yourself to strive for more. Learn to love yourself and accept who you are. Learn to say yes and learn to say no. Learn to welcome in new people to understand those around you. Learn how to advocate for yourself and learn to advocate for others. Be you and learn all about you. Starting this process allows you to focus less on what others want and more on what you need. Remember you ONLY have power over YOUR choices and of YOUR destination, do not worry about the rest as they are trying to figure it out as well. 

Seniors- Save your money! Start an emergency fund with a high-yield rate and research which account is better for you. Also, budget your money. Set aside money for certain necessities, going out, subscriptions or anything else. When you go to college these skills will be crucial to how you make financial decisions and what you do in your spare time. Going into college can be stressful and challenging, there is no need to add more stress to your plate if you know how to use your money wisely. 

What do you do in your spare time?

 In my spare time I am a part of UNC Young Democrats, Mi Pueblo, ENLACES Volunteer Corp, AMEXCAN at UNC, Carolina Career Accelerator, Finance Intern for Representative Zack Hawkins, Governor Cooper’s Advisory Council on Hispanic and Latino Affairs, NC Gen Z Policy Forum, volunteer for Poder NC and El Pueblo, as well being in the process of starting two other organizations at UNC. I also like to take walks around campus, exercise with my amazing friend, try new food places and read books.    

What colleges did you apply to/get accepted? Why did you choose UNC Chapel Hill?

I got accepted into the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the University of North Carolina Greensboro, the University of North Carolina Charlotte, Furman University, and Appalachian State University.  It has always been one of my dream schools since I was a little girl and I was super excited to be a part of a community full of scholars who would be able to challenge me in different ways. My favorite color is blue, however, Carolina blue is simply the better one. 

How did high school prepare you for college? 

High school has helped me to learn how to network and talk with professors. Another piece of advice! Do not be afraid to talk with professors! Get to know them, you will need them for any other advice, educational opportunities or recommendations. I was also able to focus on career exploration, allowing me to learn about different professors ultimately opening up my opportunity to double major.