Students in the Spotlight

2008 marks the 18th consecutive year that the "Students in the Spotlight" scholarship awards have been presented to dozens of outstanding seniors about to graduate from high schools across the city of Santa Ana. This annual program, a highly successful partnership between the business and educational communities, is administered by the Greater Santa Ana Business Alliance. Over the years, it has funded a total of more than 500 students from the Santa Ana Unified School District, Orange County High School of the Arts, and Mater Dei High School.

Recommended by their teachers, counselors and principals, students at each Santa Ana high school compete for the awards by submitting written applications in the winter of their senior year. They are judged by members of a scholarship awards committee organized by the Business Alliance that includes volunteers from higher education and from the business community. Scholarship recipients are selected based upon their records of academic achievement, participation in extra-curricular and/or community service, written essays, and school commendation letters. The winners are then publicly announced at an inspiring dinner banquet to which students and their parents, counselors, principals and scholarship sponsors are all invited.

At this year's event on the evening of Tuesday, March 18, 2008, a total of 38 scholarships were awarded, with a total value of more than $250,000. Among the recipients were students from families who are of Hispanic, Asian, and European descent.

The funds for these annual scholarship awards are provided by Vanguard University of Southern California, other local colleges and universities, and by Alliance member businesses interested in investing in the future workforce in our area. The student award winners frequently make commitments to remain active as adults in the city of Santa Ana following completion of their higher education, thus "giving back" to their community. In this way, scholarship sponsors become an integral part of the success of our future local leaders.

The many institutions and companies who participate as scholarship sponsors in our "Students in the Spotlight" awards are investing in the brightest and most committed youth in our community. Their generosity has been instrumental in positively affecting the lives of hundreds of students as well as their family members. To learn how your own organization can take part in these worthy efforts, please visit the Greater Santa Ana Business Alliance website at www.SantaAnaAlliance.com or call the Business Alliance office today.


Yariza Amaton

First, I want to thank the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and Valley High School for this outstanding opportunity. High school has been the arena in which I have overcome challenges and gained great life and learning skills for a promising future. Being involved in the National Honor Society, MeChA, CSF, AVID, Mock Trial, and many more activities has helped me become more aware of the world and its many opportunities. Being the first in the family going to college has not been easy, but my parents have supported me all the way through and have taught me that the most important thing in life should be education, because nobody can take that away from me. I was brought up being told to always aim high and reach for the stars, and it has made me make tough decisions, but they have been very well worth it. I want to be able to come back to my community and give back what I received. I want to attend Occidental College and major in biological sciences to soon become a pediatrician and impact children’s lives. Education is a wonderful thing that will expand horizons and open many doors, and a never-ending road that will only end at success. I want to thank all the sponsors once again, and pat them on the back for such heroic work.


Jocelyn Antonio

My name is Jocelyn P. Antonio, I’m 17 years old and I currently attend Segerstrom High School. My whole life has always been all about academics and to this day I’m very proud and honored to have chosen the path of academics because it has all paid off. Next year, I will be attending UC Davis, with a major in Biology and a focus in Physiology and a major in Political Science. I plan on obtaining my M.D. My first career objective is to come back to my community and work in the Emergency Room of St. Joseph’s Hospital. Second, I would like to open my own clinic for those who lack resources to obtain medical attention and help people around the world. I currently hold leadership roles in Marching Band, Concert Band, and California Scholarship Federation. I am the member of Architecture, Construction Engineering (ACE), MESA, Key Club, Foreign Language Club, Science Club and Achievement Institute of Scientific Studies (AISS). My high school experience has helped me grow into a person with leadership, responsibility, respect, aspirations, dreams and hopes of achieving a higher education I believe that I am who I am with the help of my family, friends and especially my school. Since kindergarten, I’ve had difficulties learning a new language, yet, I’ve been able to break this barrier and now I find myself as the top 4% of my class. Yet, they have all opened doors for me, pushed me to better and given me support when I have most needed it.


Aileen Bui

I plan to attend a four-year university and major in biology because science has always fascinated me. By pursuing a career in medicine, I will not only work in a field that interests me, but I will also have the ability to impact not just my community, but also people around the world. Life hasn’t always been easy since my parents separated seven years ago, and supporting the family has been difficult for my mother, but I have taken these obstacles as motivation to succeed. My family has encouraged me in all my endeavors, no matter how crazy they were, and I owe much of my accomplishments to them. Being a part of the water polo team at Saddleback has also impacted me a great deal. When I joined the team freshmen year, I could barely float, not to say swim, and yet with the encouragement of my family, coaches, and teammates, I persevered and now I am proud to be part of an unforgettable team. I have learned to fight hard and my coach is always reminding me that “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” I am now seventeen years old and I am ready to tackle or embrace whatever life throws at me, but no matter what I do, I will always be grateful for the people who have influenced the person I have become.


Mia Bui

My education for the past thirteen years has been a priority that I am proud to reflect upon. Next year, I will be attending a university in the political science and music fields. I am diverse ethnically and mentally, I must say. Performing arts and political science have played huge roles in my life. For the past two years I have held a leadership role as ASB president in Student Council. I also was Varsity Pep Squad captain for the past two years. Musically, I have been involved in choral programs for three years in high school, attended classes in Hollywood, and was involved in the SRO program at Fullerton College this past summer in the production “High School Musical.” I have been involved in the community through various activities surrounding my own neighborhood. The majority of my services involved children; for instance, I was an assistant coach for softball with Floyd Rouse at Thornton Park and participated in numerous fundraiser fairs at Jim Thorpe Elementary. I am currently working at Abercrombie Kids at South Coast Plaza. It has been beneficial for me as a valuable learning experience, helping me to better understand customer service and responsibility. I am surrounded by many positive influences such as my family and friends who have guided and supported me. My teachers have been an amazing and supportive group of people who have sacrificed time and effort to inspire and push me to my best.


Wendy Carrasco

I am currently attending Santa Ana High School. I will be the first generation in my family to go to a university. I consider myself blessed to be in school for the past twelve years. God comes first in my life, and education is something I thank Him for giving me. I am proud of myself for coming this far in my education and striving for the best in my future. Next year, I will be attending Vanguard University in a music program. I am currently active around my school; I am in the Red Cross Club, CSF, Fish Club and various other clubs around campus. I am an active member in my church, and I take any opportunity to help others in a positive way. My favorite event in church is helping in the Children’s Church Summer Camp. I have been beyond blessed to have leaders, family and friends who support me; they have been some of my many inspirations to be the person I want to be in my future life.


Marilyn Chavez

Born and raised in southern California, I am currently a seventeen-year-old senior at Valley High School. While some are dreading the thought of moving on, I am looking forward to graduating from high school in June. Even though I have not yet made up my mind about what university I want to attend, I do know what I want to study. After much confusion and soul searching, I have made up my mind. I want to study psychology and possibly minor in photography. Studying psychology has always been a possibility in my mind. I have always been fascinated by human mentality and the characteristics that make each and every one of us unique. Also, looking through the pages of fashion magazines has nurtured my passion for photography. Pictures cannot speak or move for themselves but they can certainly “say a million words” and bring back memories that make us feel the same way as the day after we took them, even after many years have passed. This fall, I will be starting a new chapter in my life, but I will always have mental and physical pictures of those who have helped me like my mentors, my friends and most importantly, my mom and dad.


Tony Diaz

During my educational career and life, I have realized that education has been beneficial guidance that will eventually help me in the long run. Learning and gaining knowledge will make my journey less stressful through my career path. In addition, after I graduate I hope to continue my educational career by attending a four-year university, preferably UC Berkeley. I am currently the community service officer for Honor Society, involved in numerous clubs and extra curricular activities, and have volunteered in my community. Finally, I am grateful to have my family, teachers and friends because they have motivated me and have stressed the importance that anything is possible if you work hard for it. Likewise, my educational and career goals have been interactive in between. For instance, my educational goal is to go on to a four-year university and major in mathematics. Also, I am planning to minor in political science to get a better understanding of politics. By doing this, I want to accomplish my career goal which is to become a math teacher. Furthermore, I would like to fulfill my goal of getting a bachelor’s degree, then a masters, and finally a Ph.D in mathematics, while gaining more knowledge in the process. My career goals are to be successful in the field that I am going into, which is to become a math teacher.


Veronica Escalante

I am currently a senior at Century High School, where I am in the top four percent in my senior class. Education has always been a big priority in my life, and I have always known that I wanted to go to college and become successful. My parents have always encouraged me to strive for success in everything I do, and they have told me that if I try genuinely hard, I can accomplish anything. Their encouragement has always been my motivation for my continuing academic success, and I know that with their words of wisdom I will go far. Ever since my freshman year I have been involved in the GHAP (Gate, Honors, and Advanced Placement) program at school and have maintained competitive grades all throughout my high school career. Also, I am actively involved in many clubs such as Model United Nations, Mock Trial, Key Club, Drama, and M.E.C.H.A. I currently hold the position of project chair in Key Club and am an attorney on my Mock Trial Prosecution Team. As for college, I hope to attend University of California, Los Angeles or University of California, Santa Barbara in the fall. College has always been a dream of mine, and with my high school career coming to an end, I am delighted to know that a new chapter in my life is about to begin.


Esmeralda Estrada

I’ve always tried to fulfill goals I’ve set for myself, and this has enabled me to push myself towards achieving success in whatever I put my mind to. I am the oldest daughter of Mexican parents and have lived all my life in a community where there is a lack of educational awareness, role models, and ultimately underprivileged schools and students. Therefore, as a career goal and a female student interested in a male-oriented field, engineering, I feel even more encouraged to change the statistical fact of women being a minority in this field. I feel the need to prove to my community that Hispanic women are more than capable of achieving a college degree in engineering. The lack of confidence existing in my Hispanic community in believing that we are equally capable as other ethnic groups pushes me to establish a base for younger generations. After college, I plan to create after-school programs that will reflect many engineering careers. These programs will help tutor students with math skills, and challenge them to work at higher standards than in their schools. They will serve as a hands-on experience to those who are interested in pursuing a career in the engineering field, thus helping them reflect and truly know if this career path is the one they wish to follow.


Sierra Farber

After finishing six years in the Opera and Music Theater Conservatories at the Orange County High School of the Arts and completing its rigorous academic program with a 4.625 GPA, I am prepared to take the next step by attending an excellent vocal and academic university or a music conservatory. Upon high school graduation, my immediate goal is to attend a university that will allow me the opportunity to grow both artistically and academically. I plan to pursue a double major in voice and biochemistry at the New England Conservatory and Harvard University in a joint-university program. By pursuing these two majors, I will be able to explore my full potential in both the arts and academics. Another program that intrigues me is the double major program at USC that allows and encourages both studies in the vocal arts and a second major. After completing my vocal education at the collegiate level, I will continue my education by joining a young artists program at one of the nationally-acclaimed opera houses. Ultimately, I will work in opera houses around the world or work on Broadway. I believe my goals are attainable with continued diligence, perseverance, and hard work. Thank you for your scholarship! The funds will be carefully spent towards the pursuit of excellence in the vocal arts.


Isabel Franco

Being the first generation in my family to attend college makes me feel an accomplished young woman, motivated to pursue my dreams until they have been accomplished. I am a senior at Century High School where I have been involved in volleyball, track and field, and Model United Nations from my freshman year. To add to the list my last year in high school, I joined the yearbook program and was chosen not only to be in the class, but to be the editor-in-chief. On top of these activities, I have had to handle a workload from my AP and honors courses as well as maintaining an overall GPA of 4.1. Through these programs, I have been able to learn responsibility, teamwork, and time management. Because of my experiences in high school, I feel prepared for college and am ready to go out and begin the journey to reach my dreams. Next year, I hope to attend The University of California San Diego in hopes of pursuing my major in psychology. By obtaining a degree in this field, I hope to be able to go back to my community and work in a place where I can help young children who are abused physically, mentally, and/or verbally. My hope is to be able to ease these children’s sorrows and motivate them to reach a higher education. Thank you for awarding me this scholarship that will aid me in pursuing my dreams and aspirations.


Noemi Gomez

Education has always been my priority in my life, because it is the only way that I can achieve my dream of attending the University of San Diego in the hope of becoming a high school teacher. I dream of giving back to my community by coming back to teach as a math teacher. I want to become a role model to students who are following the wrong paths in life, and be someone to influence them to make better decisions in their lives, with the goal of changing them for the better. I am currently involved in my school by taking the leadership role of the Associated Student Body vice-president and those of other clubs in school. I am also involved with my church, Immaculate Heart of Mary, as an aid to a Catechism teacher. Also, having volunteered in after-school tutoring programs in schools in my community has influenced my dream of becoming a teacher. Of course, I would have never been able to accomplish any goals and achievements without the guidance, motivation and belief my family, friends and teachers had in me, and I am thankful to have them take part in my life.


Gryska Gonzales

Education has always been among the utmost priorities in my life for as long as I can imagine. I have diligently strived to maintain academic excellence throughout my life. Because of that, I have been guaranteed admission to several top Universities of California. My academic success could not have been achieved were it not for the unrelenting guidance, support, and love of my family. I owe them every bit of my achievements and am eternally grateful to have their unconditional love and support throughout my academic endeavors. I currently hold leadership positions as president of my senior class and a freshman mentor. I am also involved in extracurricular activities such as the National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. I have been part of my school’s athletics, playing softball for the past three years. Attending an accredited university will enable me to pursue my aspirations of becoming a prominent medical doctor. My passion is humanity and I cannot think of a better way to give back to my community than by assisting them in times of dire need. With this prestigious scholarship, I will be able to pursue my aspirations and contribute to helping people overcome health issues, and also contribute my skills and knowledge to those who are underprivileged. The most important thing to me is knowing that I can give people the most basic necessity and gift: a fighting chance to continue living life.


Vanessa Gonzales

My name is Vanessa Gonzalez and I am currently attending Saddleback High School. Throughout my four years in high school, I have participated in extracurricular activities that not only have enriched my knowledge to go to a university upon graduation, but also helped my school and community. Participating and being involved in the community made me realize that I want to pursue a career where I would be able to continue helping society. I plan to pursue the medical field, and become an anesthesiologist. Education has been something I value immensely. I am currently in the top four of my class due to my hard work, dedication, and support from my family. I will be attending college next year and represent my family, high school, and community proudly.


Darlene Gonzalez

I’m currently a student at Lorin Griset Academy, but I also attended Valley High, where I was involved in volleyball and in the MESA program before transferring to Lorin Griset. I come from a very humble family whose support has helped me greatly in pursuing my dreams. I’m also a teen mom. I have a wonderful daughter who is my inspiration for going to college. She is my motivation for pursuing my goals in life. I want to be able to give her a good future, and I want to be a role model for her. I plan to attend community college and then transfer to UCI. I want to become a nurse to be able to give something back to my community, Santa Ana. Being awarded this scholarship has shown me that I have the ability to pursue my goals and overcome any obstacle in life. My life had a great turning point when my daughter was born, but this didn’t stop me from attending college. This scholarship is just the start in helping me pursue my dreams in life.


Suzenh Guadarrama

I was born November 16th, 1990 to Eloisa and Uriel Guadarrama. Being part of the first-generation of my family to be able to have a college education, I have had to seek out the requirements and general information about higher education independently. With the help of programs such as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Santa Ana College’s Academic Talent Search, and Higher Education Mentoring, I have been able to focus on admission into a four-year university—in requirements and preparation. Although my mother and father were not able to provide academic information, they gave me encouragement and strength to seek the knowledge that has led me to become the student that I am today. I am in the top four percent of my class, and an active member of National Honor Society and California Scholarship Federation. I have applied to various universities under an open/undeclared major, but have gained interest in various fields of study, including political science, business administration, and art. I hope to attend a four-year university in California and give back to my family and all those who provided aid and support along the way.


Itzel Guzman

I currently assist at Valley High School in Santa Ana. For almost thirteen years, education has been the main focus of my life. Next year during the fall I will be attending Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, majoring in business administration. I’m currently the AVID program treasurer at Valley High School, and am involved in clubs on campus that serve my community and my church. I have been surrounded by people who support me and motivate me to go to college, such as my parents, family members, friends and teachers, and I am so thankful for that.


Peter Huynh

I currently attend Saddleback High school and am ranked in the top 4% of my graduating class. Throughout my years in high school, I’ve come to realize the value of being involved in school and the importance of remaining dedicated to the programs that I’ve joined. I’ve made many friends and many lasting memories by actively participating in Key Club, Choir, and ASB for most, if not all of my high school career. Experience with these clubs has earned me positions such as president of Key Club and executive treasurer of ASB. Always wanting to be challenged, I’ve filled my schedule up with many AP classes during the day and a part-time job at night. My next four years will be devoted to pursuing an undergraduate degree in biology, and then applying to a pharmacy school to become a pharmacist.


Edward Lara

I was born in the city of Fountain Valley on May 26, 1990. I was raised in the great city of Santa Ana by my wonderful parents, Emilio and Maria Lara. My parents immigrated to the United States from Mexico at a very young age. They have sacrificed so much so that I can get ahead in life, and I only see fit to do everything in my power to make sure their sacrifices aren’t made in vain. I have worked extremely hard these past twelve academic years waiting to see when all my hard work would actually pay off; that time is now. In the future, I plan to pursue a career in criminal justice and will next year embark in an undergraduate program that will well prepare me for the rigors of law school. I am very fortunate to have family and friends who love me and have instilled in me the value of education. I am determined to become the first in my family to attend a university. My family and friends have motivated me to get to the top; I plan to get there some day. Once I arrive at the top, I will not forget to send the elevator back down for the people who helped me get there.


Clara Le

I currently am a senior at Segerstrom High School. Being a second child to a successful sister, I have proven myself to become an inspirational person to my younger brother. For the past twelve years, I have dedicated every single aspect of my soul and life to be the best student I can in school. Next year, I am planning to attend my dream school, University of California, Los Angeles, majoring in chemistry. With this intense education, I plan on becoming a pediatrician, which has been a childhood dream of mine. In school, I am involved in leadership roles in academic clubs and the orchestra. I have been secretary for the California Scholarship Federation for three years, a member of National Honor Society, and concert mistress for first violins in orchestra. Outside of school, I am employed in a part-time job, volunteer in my spare time, attend private piano lessons and will receive my piano diploma this summer. From graduating high school and having high hopes for being successful in college, I am going to make my older sister and parents proud of the child they raised.


Paulina Lopez

My goal to become a math teacher in Santa Ana is a dream I am committed to achieving. As my dad is disabled and unable to work, my mother supports the family by working in a food truck. Through her commitment to family and community, I have had the best role model. One of my greatest responsibilities is babysitting my younger brother and three cousins. Caring for children has solidified my desire to pursue teaching. At Chavez, I have seen the positive results that come from students and staff working together. Nothing is impossible because teachers know how to handle students. I plan to attend Santa Ana College. then transfer to Cal State Fullerton. At Chavez, I have learned we are the future, and how we perform now will make the future either positive or negative. I will try to instill in my students the desire to become contributing members of their community, to not only be well-educated people, but people involved in the betterment of the world at large. My work gathering and distributing food and clothes through my church has shown me the importance of ground-level involvement. Fellowship Generation, MeCHA, raising money for Pennies for Patients at Chavez and Latino Leadership’s year-long program have further shown me how each person makes a difference. My family fully supports my goals. My greatest challenge will be financial support. A scholarship will enable me to fully concentrate on academics and community work. I am committed to continuing working in the community as well as becoming an awesome teacher. Thank you for this scholarship.


Tayler Mettra

Tayler Mettra is studying music and theater at OCHSA, where she has been a student since 7th grade. She is the senior vice president of her class, founder and president of the Senior Mentors Club, and an active member of the Environmentalist Club, the National Thespian Society, and the National Honor Society. She is also a member of the school’s premiere performing group, Montage, and maintains a GPA of 4.17. Tayler’s interest in performing began when she was eight years old, and since that time, she has performed in numerous musicals throughout Orange County. She was selected as a winner in South Coast Symphony’s “Stars of the Future” competition, Orange County Performing Arts Center’s “Tomorrow’s Stars at the Center” competition, as well as Musical Theater West’s Footlighters scholarship competition. Tayler has had the opportunity to perform locally with several Broadway stars, including Susan Egan, Alice Ripley, Karen Culliver, Teri Bibb, and David Burnham. After graduation, Tayler will attend a four-year liberal arts college where she plans to continue her studies in music while maintaining a high academic standard. She would love to one day perform on Broadway and later become an elementary teacher in order to inspire children the way her teachers have inspired her. Tayler thanks the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce for this wonderful scholarship award and recognition.


Sandra Mora

I’m currently a senior at Century High School and hope to attend a four-year university in which I will pursue a career in education. I am the oldest in my family, and because of this I have challenged myself to reach my goals, have good grades, and be a role model who my younger sister can look up to. I’ve been on my school’s dance team for two years and currently I am the captain of the team. As the captain, I have to show leadership skills and commitment. Not only am I involved in the dance team, but I’m also a member of the Peer Assistance Leadership program, in which I’m able to mentor freshmen and help them improve their grades. I’m also involved in Architecture, Construction and Engineering (A.C.E.), Latino Youth Leadership Institute, and College Readiness Program. I’m a strong believer that where there’s a will there’s a way. I have faced many obstacles throughout my life, but I still manage to exceed my expectations. There are two people I want to thank for helping me along my path: my mom and dad.


Danny Nguyen

My name is Danny Nguyen and I am presently attending Saddleback High School. Education has been the most important thing to me for my whole life. I believe that it is the key for me to succeed in life. I currently hold leadership roles in the Associative Student Body, Key Club, Junior Statesman of America, Vietnamese Student Association, and I am the captain of the varsity tennis team. I receive most of my support for a higher education from my family. My friends and the staff at my high school also motivate me and inspire me in my life. All of these people always tell me to give it my all and to never give up. They all are significant in my procession through high school. I will never forget their time and effort that they have put into me. The career that I want to pursue after high school is the career of a doctor. I want to help people with their illnesses and also want to try to find cures for many deadly diseases like cancer and AIDS. I hope that after high school I can somehow make a contribution to my community and the world.


Steven Nguyen

I am currently a graduating senior at Mater Dei High School. So far in my journey through high school, I have been successful at maintaining a 4.0 GPA and above each year, and this year, I am proud to be the president of Mater Dei’s Key Club. I am very excited and pleased to have won this scholarship and although I have been tied up with school activities and a part-time job, I plan on ending my high school years as strongly as I started. My dream since I entered high school was to work diligently so that I would be able to attend a prestigious university and pursue a career in the medical field. After this memorable year has passed, I plan on attending the University of California, Irvine to pursue my career as a pharmacist. When everything is said and done, I expect to see myself back in the classroom as an adult, except this time I hope to take up the role as the teacher. I want to share the knowledge I have gained throughout my life with future generations, and I hope to not only guide them but learn from them as well, because I believe that children, no matter what age, are the best teachers I know of. I am very grateful for being honored with this scholarship and I will keep pursuing my dreams.


Erika Nunez

Being raised in Santa Ana, and having been exposed to several obstacles at such a young age, I have always had the idea of attending college instilled in me. Currently, I am a senior at Century High School. Throughout high school, I have always strived to work hard in my studies and have always been active in my school by being part of numerous extracurricular activities. I am currently in the upper secretariat for Model United Nations Program, in which we discuss and come up with solutions to present world issues. I am also an editor and reporter for our school newspaper, an active member of the ACE Mentor Program, and part of our school’s Mock Trial Team. I am also in the Upward Bound Program, which has guided me throughout high school to ensure that I fulfill my lifelong goals. Apart from school, I enjoy listening to music and hanging out with my sisters and close friends. I plan to double major in political science and communications, and then hopefully go on to law school and become a lawyer.


Jessica Olea

I am eighteen years old and currently attend Valley High School, where I am an active member in several clubs and organizations. I am involved in Student Council, M.E.S.A., PUENTE and many other clubs. My experience in Student Council has been remarkable due to the enormous contribution and involvement that one has to set for the entire student body. My dreams and goals have inpired me to head towards my college degree, where I can come back to my community and assist those who need a hand to succeed. After my high school graduation, I hope to attend the University of California, Santa Barbara this fall where I can pursue a degree in psychology and a minor in Spanish. I am a devoted student who looks forward to new experiences and will continue to work hard in my studies.


Theresa Ortega

was captain of our varsity volleyball team and congresswoman at California Girls State. I am vice-president of our chapter of California Scholarship Federation, captain of the academic quiz bowl team, a freshmen mentor, member of National Honor Society, and have completed over 200 hours of community service. I aspire to attend Harvard College next year and major in anthropology. I plan to work for or establish a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian relief to and education in Latin America. Having witnessed the effects of education on myself and the freshmen I have mentored, I believe that education is the key to self-sufficiency and positive change. I hope to provide physical relief to the impoverished and education to the ignorant so they can shape their future and their communities. I also hope to teach in the U.S. I have experienced the importance of committed, passionate teachers, and hope I may affect other individuals through education as profoundly as my teachers have affected me. My goal is for my efforts to result in educated and tolerant societies composed of self-sufficient and optimistic individuals. My academic achievement, leadership positions, community service, and personal experiences both reflect and shape my determination to achieve the utmost I can, as well as my passion to positively affect my community and world.


Liliana Palacios

I have been blessed with a great family. If it wasn’t for their support, I might have not accomplished everything I have. Since my freshmen year, I have had a rigorous academic schedule consisting of honors and advanced placement classes. On top of that, I have been a very involved individual in school and community activities such as the editor-in-chief of yearbook, assistant editor-in-chief in journalism, prosecuting attorney in mock trial, project chair in key club, president of the Polynesian dance team, and an active youth commissioner for the city of Santa Ana. I realized that my hard work paid off when Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez chose me to be a page in Congress for my second semester of my junior year. Since then, I have valued my family much more than ever before; they have been my rock. This experience taught me responsibility and helped me grow as an individual. Living, working, and attending school full-time three thousand miles away from home allowed me to experience the real world on my own. Coming back to Santa Ana, I have observed everything with a different point of view. I hope to return back to Santa Ana as a teacher, because change starts in the classroom, not on Capitol Hill. Next year I will be pursuing a major in history and attend a school of my choice: UCLA, University of Notre Dame, or UC-Davis.


Christopher Peck

Since I began my education twelve years ago, I have always thought that the key to happiness and success was knowledge. In my academic career at Mater Dei, I have taken many challenging courses, and have earned a cumulative grade-point average of 4.1. In addition to my academics, I am actively involved in sports and other extracurricular activities. I played basketball at Mater Dei for three years, and was co-captain for two of those years. This year I have joined the newly-formed Mater Dei lacrosse team. I currently have over 120 community service hours from participating in such activities as volunteering at St. Joseph Hospital, helping coach a youth football team, and taking food to the homeless as part of Mater Dei’s Lion Share program. I am also involved in the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), the National Honor Society (NHS), Campus Ministry, and the Renaissance Club. My future plans include attending a four-year university to study mechanical engineering. Some of my prospective schools include UCLA, Notre Dame, and Purdue. After graduating from college, I hope to work for an aerospace corporation such as Boeing or Northrop Grumman. God, my family, my friends, and my teachers have all inspired me to be who I am today, and I am very grateful to them for doing so.


Kimberly Pham

I am a student at Segerstrom High School. Because my education and community have been equally important to me, I have maintained high grades while performing good deeds for those in my community and beyond. I feel I have made the most of my education and have seized opportunities such as advanced placement courses. I am currently a member of both academic and service clubs such as National Honor Society, California Scholarship Federation, and Key Club. I try to get myself out there and “make a difference.” My family has been a large influence and has shaped who I am. The staff at my school is extremely supportive, and because of them I have been able to push for excellence. And finally, my friends have helped me get past the rocky road I call “high school.” I am very appreciative of the nurturing environment and encouraging group of people in my life. My first-choice school is Scripps College and I would like to major in either psychology or neuroscience. I feel that either path will lead me to a career I will enjoy, and one in which I will be able to help improve the lives of other people.


Sandra Rodriguez

My family is the reason for my accomplishments, and my mission in life is to attend a university, get a business degree and manage my own business. Having this in mind is what has made me such an overachiever—one who has not given up even in the most oppressive times. My family consists of five people, my loving parents and my two sisters; I am the middle child. I attend Century high school where I have taken up being involved in Model United Nations, Mock Trial, Upward Bound, A.C.E Mentor Program, Latino Youth Leadership Institute, Polynesian Dance team and Journalism, all the while working a part-time job. Each different program has taught me a lot and had a positive influence on me throughout my years in high school. Of all the programs, Model United Nations has been the one that has had the greatest impact on my life since it has made me a good public speaker, and helped me become opinionated and assertive. This program has also set my mind to be proactive, by being a Model U.N senior teacher, in which I mentor underclassmen while holding the position of committee chair for our upcoming conference. I pride myself in my accomplishments both academically and personally, by thriving to achieve more than above-average grades in honor and AP courses, and by prioritizing and doing whatever it takes to get me to better standings. I am grateful for having such supportive adults in my life and thank them for all their guidance and my family for giving me such a strong sense that education is for life.


Jacqueline Rodriguez

I am currently a senior attending Santa Ana High School and am the older of two children. I am involved in various extracurricular activities, including Chamber Singers, National Honor Society, Freshmen Mentor Program, Future Teachers of America, California Scholarship Federation, and Career Beginnings. For three years, I was a valuable member of the girls soccer team. Of these extra-curricular activities, I am especially proud of my accomplishments in Chamber Singers, in that I have expanded my vocal range and knowledge of music, as well as becoming a more outgoing and sociable person. Having asthma and no fatherly influence in my life are two obstacles I continually face and overcome. Despite these obstacles (and others), I have achieved in my academics, maintaining an overall 4.5 GPA. Taking the most rigorous classes offered at my school has prepared me to pursue a higher education and graduate from a competitive university. My goal is to major in psychology and work in the field of education. I plan to one day return to a Hispanic community and teach mathematics at the secondary school level. This dream of mine is molded from my innate instinct to help others as well as my active involvement in the Freshmen Mentor Program and Future Teachers of America. I look forward to the challenges ahead and to giving back to my community.


Grecia Ruiz

One of the greatest experiences in my life is coming to Middle College High School. I’m currently a senior, and proud to be a member of this institution. Family, teachers, and nature have served as a catalyst of inspiration to pursue a higher education. Middle College High School has especially provided me the tools and resources to attain my associate of arts degree at Santa Ana College. My mother has motivated me to never limit myself, and to be a productive individual in society. Being involved at school and in the community has helped me to develop my skills and abilities to interact with other people in a diverse society. As a result of my involvement at school, I have held various leadership positions. I’m the president of the Spanish Language club at Santa Ana College and the co-president of the Health/Cooking club at Middle College High School. I’m also part of Outdoor Science Club and a volunteer at my local park. My future plan is to transfer to University of California, Irvine. I want to major in biology and then specialize in forensic pathology. Keeping an optimistic attitude will help me achieve my objectives in life.


Adriana Solis

Although I am considered a minority and sometimes looked down upon, I know that with God, my family and the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce, I will be able to achieve my educational plans. Next fall, if God permits, I will be attending the University of California Irvine to major in engineering. I want to able to provide my family what, unfortunately, they have not been able to provide for me. Being the first in my family to attend any kind of university, let alone high school, I have taken two giant steps that make me proud of who I am. Through the exceptional education and the leadership positions I hold, I have learned the values of commitment and balance that have allowed me to set goals and be able to reach them. I have learned that doing what everyone else does is not great, but to do beyond and make an impact in everyone is most memorable.


Stephany Soria

I am seventeen years old and currently attend Valley High school. I grew up all my life in Santa Ana, seeing my father abuse my mother and walk out on our family. How I got through life was thinking that I would never run out on my dreams and accomplish the goal of reaching college, to prove to my family that I will make someone out of myself. I lived with my two sisters and two brothers. Having none of them reach college was also encouraging to get a degree and be the first to graduate from a university. All through my life, I have received outstanding grades to reach the point where I am today. I am very involved with my community and school. I do various clean-ups for the city of Santa Ana, and I am a volunteer at two elementary schools. In school, I am involved in the Associated Student Body, where I have learned how to be a true leader in and out of school, and I am a true leader because I am the captain of the pep squad and try tremendously to encourage school spirit and get others involved. I have applied to San Diego State and I am waiting to get accepted. I also want to major in business. I want to come back to Santa Ana and build better schools and improve this community.


Julia Wagstaff

Throughout my life, I’ve always been one to excel in many things. This year, I am ranked in the top ten of my class and have excelled in academics all four years in high school. However, although my academics may be impressive, what really means the most to me are my extracurricular activities. I have been in, or am currently in, almost every club at my high school. I also joined water polo last year, giving up four clubs to do so. Being so involved has helped me tremendously in my life. A few years ago, I hardly spoke at school and would have never dreamed of being involved in ASB or being able to speak to even a small group of students. Now, many people who know me think of me as a leader and probably would never guess how hard it is for me to speak to people. I have great dreams for the future and even though it is hard for me to communicate sometimes, I know that I can do anything I set my mind to. Someday, I hope to be an astronaut and to explore the universe. Next year, I plan to attend the University of Southern California and double major in astronautical engineering and theater technology. I hope this will help me in my dream to one day go to space.


Olya Zamucen

Mater Dei High School has been such an amazing learning experience for me for the past four years. It is a great environment where help and guidance is always there for you. I am very involved with sports at Mater Dei such as track and field for four years, cross country for three and soccer for two years. I have made many new friends and long-lasting memories. I am also very involved in Campus Ministry and in my community. I was adopted from Russia by a loving family at the age of nine years old and did not speak a word of English. It was a huge obstacle for me but with many hours of private tutoring and the support of my family, I learned very quickly. I currently live in Newport Beach with my amazing family. My high school experience also taught me about Jesus and about his glorious workings with people and his many miracles. I learned how to follow His ways and that He was the example I wanted to follow in how to be a proper, loving, and giving human being. Since I was little, I have attended church regularly and have taken four years of religion courses at school. I am attending Vanguard in the fall and I am so excited for this new experience. Vanguard University will be an excellent fit for me because it has a lot of great qualities that I am looking for. It is a small Christian environment, it is close to home and the beach, and it has a diverse group of students. I believe that I would excel academically because it has smaller classes, and I could spend more one-on-one time with my professors.