I know the importance of overcoming obstacles. I understand that it’s challenging and sometimes scary to get outside of your comfort zone. My goal with my blogs are to create the sense of possibilities. I want my messages to inspire you, to make you think, react and succeed. I will be sharing experiences of what helped me gain confidence and fuel my future goals and dreams. For now, I would like to give you a sneak peek of who I am and how my experiences are molding me to become the person that I want to be.
Although I come from a small, Latino community, it has been my experiences outside of my community that have shaped the son, scholar, and servant-leader I am. From the evenings running cross country under the summer sun, the afternoons strumming out songs on the guitar, and the mornings spent studying for exams—each life experience has led me to a self-discovery of whom I am and who I want to become.
Acknowledging the importance of an education, the support of my family has enabled me to set the example for my younger siblings. Initially high school was challenging due to the fact that I did not know the appropriate actions to take that would ensure me a quality education. Once enrolled, I began with the basic classes such as Algebra 1 and Integrated Science. However, I soon came to realize many of the amazing opportunities my school provided. I quickly took advantage of all the resources available to me; including AP courses, sports programs, and clubs. By actively engaging myself as a student in a variety of areas, I developed an attitude of challenging myself whenever I could.
After joining HOSA 3 years ago, I have learned that we now live in a global community, the challenges that others face when attempting to access needed care should be addressed. I have personally seen the impact it has made within my community and the environment around us. These observations empowered me to take the initiative to help organize events such as a Women’s Breast Cancer Walk, Blood Drives sponsored by the San Diego Blood Bank, and host Healthy Habit conventions where community members would come to learn about their body and how to take care of themselves. Utilizing my experience in the Imperial Valley Regional Occupational Program, I have also been able to impact community junior high schools by providing presentations regarding the health risks of sugar filled beverages and tobacco use.
While I am proud of overcoming many milestones, I have taken great pride in my accomplishment of becoming a California HOSA State Officer. This leadership position has enabled me to lead the future healthcare professionals of this country. In addition, it has also put my communication, organization, and leadership skills to the ultimate test. I feel that I have placed myself in a challenging environment that will enable and empower me to persevere through my future studies, and serve my surrounding community and abroad.
While I am proud of my heritage, I am the first in the family to receive an education in the United States. I acknowledge that I would not be where I am today without the love and support of my family and surrounding community. Given the investments they have made in me, I am ready to continue investing in myself by seeking out a quality education that will enable me to continue impacting my culture, community, college, and country as a future health professional. I hope that my story will inspire you to invest in yourself and accept challenges as they come.
