Gia will attend Texas A&M University to study biomedical sciences.
How have SAISD schools shaped you into the person you are today?
Many people have been a profound influence on my success and overall education and that includes the community of teachers at SAISD. I could not be more thankful to the skillful and knowledgeable teachers that go out of their way and invest their time to make a difference in our future. All the effort and dedication they put into every class, as well as the time they take to make each learning experience important and remarkable. I appreciate every teacher and all the challenging work they do for all the students at SAISD. I would not have obtained and learned all the knowledge throughout the years if it were not for these exceptional teachers that have provided me with everything I could ask for in my educational career.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome during your education so far and how did you overcome it?
During my educational journey, I did not only face challenges in my academic career but in my life overall. My parents have sacrificed many things to guarantee me a better future, including having to move countries in search of better opportunities. But not only was the drastic change of moving challenging, but the life I would have to live without one of my parents by my side. As my mom and I followed a new journey, my dad stayed in our native home due to the difficult circumstances. Leaving and being separated from him was one of the most heartbreaking experiences I have ever had. Therefore, what encouraged and helped me overcome this difficulty the most was seeing this obstacle as an opportunity to improve my future. While adjusting to the absence of my father, I took advantage of the new opportunities I was provided with; succeeding with my studies and developing interests that will help me with my future success and career goals.
Who has been most influential to you in your education and why?
As the absence of my father has made an enormous impact on both my mom's and my life, we have been able to cope with it and make a beautiful home together. My mom has been the most influential person in my life throughout my high school experience, she is the authoritative mentor that I needed while growing up to encourage and push my limits to succeed and prosper. She is the woman that I look up to because she is the set example of what a perfect mentor and mother should be like. She is what I call my ideal role model and my lifelong hero.
As a leader of the Class of 2022, what is your hope for the Class of 2022 as they move on to the next chapter of their lives?
As the end of the year is approaching and this long journey is ending, the Class of 2022 has done a remarkable job throughout the years together as a family and a united community. I hope nothing but the absolute best for the Class of 2022 in their future endeavors and the new chapter ahead. As we all move forward to achieve our dreams, I hope they define their success and live up to their measures with passion and commitment no matter what they encounter in life. Chase your dreams and follow your heart in pursuit of happiness.