Business & Finance
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Business & Finance
Gold - Mateo HernándeZ
Major: Finance
GPA: 4.00
High School: Huntley High School
Heritage: Mexican
Mateo Hernández has always been fascinated by finance and the stock market. One day, he hopes to become a shrewd hedge fund manager, and as president of his school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), he is well on his way to realizing his dreams. As president, he manages the club’s 95 members, which in itself demonstrates his leadership adeptness. To fund his school’s FBLA chapter, he has been actively involved in helping to raise money, whether by volunteering at volleyball concessions or selling donuts. Mateo’s leadership qualities extend beyond his role as president. He also founded the first Youth League of United Latin Americans Council in his area, which helps promote higher education for immigrants and Hispanic people. As the son of an immigrant, Mateo is committed to giving back to the Latino community, and he feels community service is incredibly powerful and meaningful. Mateo’s Latino heritage is important to him, and he enjoys singing mariachi music with his abuelita and spending time with his family, eating arrachera, sopita, and more. Academically, Mateo is incredibly gifted. With a GPA of 4.00, he has also been recognized for various awards and commendations and recently completed a 5-week pre-college summer experience through the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he dove into finance, marketing, and accounting. In addition to his academic success, Mateo also already maintains his own portfolio, with strong returns, and has bought stocks such as Canadian Solar and Trulieve. He plans to study Finance at the University of Notre Dame, University of Michigan, or the University of Chicago.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Huntley High School
Heritage: Mexican
Mateo Hernández has always been fascinated by finance and the stock market. One day, he hopes to become a shrewd hedge fund manager, and as president of his school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), he is well on his way to realizing his dreams. As president, he manages the club’s 95 members, which in itself demonstrates his leadership adeptness. To fund his school’s FBLA chapter, he has been actively involved in helping to raise money, whether by volunteering at volleyball concessions or selling donuts. Mateo’s leadership qualities extend beyond his role as president. He also founded the first Youth League of United Latin Americans Council in his area, which helps promote higher education for immigrants and Hispanic people. As the son of an immigrant, Mateo is committed to giving back to the Latino community, and he feels community service is incredibly powerful and meaningful. Mateo’s Latino heritage is important to him, and he enjoys singing mariachi music with his abuelita and spending time with his family, eating arrachera, sopita, and more. Academically, Mateo is incredibly gifted. With a GPA of 4.00, he has also been recognized for various awards and commendations and recently completed a 5-week pre-college summer experience through the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he dove into finance, marketing, and accounting. In addition to his academic success, Mateo also already maintains his own portfolio, with strong returns, and has bought stocks such as Canadian Solar and Trulieve. He plans to study Finance at the University of Notre Dame, University of Michigan, or the University of Chicago.
Silver - Steven Rios
Major: Marketing
GPA: 4.00
High School: Edsel Ford High School
Heritage: Mexican
One of Steven’s greatest inspirations is his parents and their careers. Both hold leadership positions at Cesar Chavez Academy in southwest Detroit, and over the years he has watched them work hard to provide opportunities and support for their students, many of whom have faced struggles in their home lives. “What you do for other people is what matters most” according to Steven and he certainly embodies that in his day-to-day life. Steven’s future career and academic prospects are bright. In high school, he began to see the true importance of financial literacy and has since worked to educate himself in the world of business. His interest was further ignited when he joined the Business Academy at the Michael Berry Career Center, where he was offered the opportunity to spend half of his school day learning about marketing, accounting, and business. After his teachers urged him to join DECA, he quickly rose through the ranks and now serves as vice-president of the chapter. In 2019, he was DECA Regional Champion for Sports Marketing, and with a perfect 4.00 GPA, his academic and business acumen are clear. But for Steven, letter grades can’t possibly express just how much he has learned about the business and finance field so far. Just as Steven watched his parents donate time, effort, and energy to helping others, he too prioritizes community service. As a volunteer for Capuchin Service Center, dedicated to providing basic necessities, he worked stocking freezers and shelving canned goods. Also a member of Link Crew at his high school, as well as Key Club, he continues to give back both on and off campus. He plans to study Marketing at the University of Michigan Dearborn, Wayne State University or Michigan State University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Edsel Ford High School
Heritage: Mexican
One of Steven’s greatest inspirations is his parents and their careers. Both hold leadership positions at Cesar Chavez Academy in southwest Detroit, and over the years he has watched them work hard to provide opportunities and support for their students, many of whom have faced struggles in their home lives. “What you do for other people is what matters most” according to Steven and he certainly embodies that in his day-to-day life. Steven’s future career and academic prospects are bright. In high school, he began to see the true importance of financial literacy and has since worked to educate himself in the world of business. His interest was further ignited when he joined the Business Academy at the Michael Berry Career Center, where he was offered the opportunity to spend half of his school day learning about marketing, accounting, and business. After his teachers urged him to join DECA, he quickly rose through the ranks and now serves as vice-president of the chapter. In 2019, he was DECA Regional Champion for Sports Marketing, and with a perfect 4.00 GPA, his academic and business acumen are clear. But for Steven, letter grades can’t possibly express just how much he has learned about the business and finance field so far. Just as Steven watched his parents donate time, effort, and energy to helping others, he too prioritizes community service. As a volunteer for Capuchin Service Center, dedicated to providing basic necessities, he worked stocking freezers and shelving canned goods. Also a member of Link Crew at his high school, as well as Key Club, he continues to give back both on and off campus. He plans to study Marketing at the University of Michigan Dearborn, Wayne State University or Michigan State University.
Bronze - Ariana Pacheco
Major: Business Management and/or Marketing
GPA: 4.00
High School: East Leyden High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican
By 11 years old, Arian Pacheco was already running her own business, creating and selling polymer clay pieces. This early entrance into the world of business laid the groundwork for what has become full-blown devotion to the field. Since then, she has worked to hone her skills and knowledge of the world of entrepreneurship and business, taking Entrepreneurship in her sophomore year of high school, where she learned the fundamentals of running a business. The following year, she enrolled in Sports and Entertainment Marketing, as well as Intro to Business and Accounting, where she learned the ins and outs of finance and marketing. She is now involved in her school’s Business Incubator, where she has been working on a website to help college students and high school seniors find jobs in their majors of choice. Clearly, she has already gained some important exposure, which will serve her well in her journey into the business ecosystem. Apart from her business acumen, Ariana is also an avid baker and previously contemplated the idea of opening her own bakery. Serving her community is also very important to Ariana. Like many parents, her mother always told her “Treat others how you want to be treated”, and according to Ariana, why not sprinkle a little bit more kindness onto the world? During the pandemic and with mental health issues on the rise, she and her peers organized a 5k in their community to raise awareness for suicide prevention. Ariana is incredibly proud of her Puerto Rican heritage, and the passion, perseverance and hard work that comes with it. Academically, she is a very strong student, with a GPA of 4.00, which is in itself well rounded out by the diverse AP classes she has taken. She plans to study Business Management at University of Chicago, DePaul University, or the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
GPA: 4.00
High School: East Leyden High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican
By 11 years old, Arian Pacheco was already running her own business, creating and selling polymer clay pieces. This early entrance into the world of business laid the groundwork for what has become full-blown devotion to the field. Since then, she has worked to hone her skills and knowledge of the world of entrepreneurship and business, taking Entrepreneurship in her sophomore year of high school, where she learned the fundamentals of running a business. The following year, she enrolled in Sports and Entertainment Marketing, as well as Intro to Business and Accounting, where she learned the ins and outs of finance and marketing. She is now involved in her school’s Business Incubator, where she has been working on a website to help college students and high school seniors find jobs in their majors of choice. Clearly, she has already gained some important exposure, which will serve her well in her journey into the business ecosystem. Apart from her business acumen, Ariana is also an avid baker and previously contemplated the idea of opening her own bakery. Serving her community is also very important to Ariana. Like many parents, her mother always told her “Treat others how you want to be treated”, and according to Ariana, why not sprinkle a little bit more kindness onto the world? During the pandemic and with mental health issues on the rise, she and her peers organized a 5k in their community to raise awareness for suicide prevention. Ariana is incredibly proud of her Puerto Rican heritage, and the passion, perseverance and hard work that comes with it. Academically, she is a very strong student, with a GPA of 4.00, which is in itself well rounded out by the diverse AP classes she has taken. She plans to study Business Management at University of Chicago, DePaul University, or the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Education
Gold - Zion Trinidad
Major: History, Latin American Studies, or Latino/a Studies
GPA: 3.76
High School: Taft High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican
For Zion Trinidad, teaching is all about giving back to one’s community. This, and his propensity for leading others has informed his interest in education. In fact, Zion has worked to find ways to hone and practice his teaching skills whenever he can – whether as leader of his classroom during his sophomore year, or as part of a summer apprenticeship program where he taught hands-on skills to his coworkers. Even now, as a leader in his Naval Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps program, he finds opportunities to guide struggling cadets and peers. Zion’s love of community service extends beyond teaching as well. Perhaps one of the most impactful events he took part in was a local park clean-up. The intervention extended beyond a simple clean-up exercise and represented the destigmatizing of an area often thought to be unsafe or unclean by local community members. For Zion, community service has also pushed him to become a better leader, as he has had to take action in order to get the job done. Zion is passionate about his Puerto Rican heritage. He believes that education holds the key to dispelling ignorance and fear of the unknown, both of which underpin the stereotyping that so many in the Hispanic/Latino community suffer from. With a GPA of 3.76, Zion is academically gifted, and with a wealth of AP and IB classes, he plans to further his path of education by studying History, Latin American Studies, or Latino/a Studies at Northwestern University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, or the University of Illinois at Chicago.
GPA: 3.76
High School: Taft High School
Heritage: Puerto Rican
For Zion Trinidad, teaching is all about giving back to one’s community. This, and his propensity for leading others has informed his interest in education. In fact, Zion has worked to find ways to hone and practice his teaching skills whenever he can – whether as leader of his classroom during his sophomore year, or as part of a summer apprenticeship program where he taught hands-on skills to his coworkers. Even now, as a leader in his Naval Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps program, he finds opportunities to guide struggling cadets and peers. Zion’s love of community service extends beyond teaching as well. Perhaps one of the most impactful events he took part in was a local park clean-up. The intervention extended beyond a simple clean-up exercise and represented the destigmatizing of an area often thought to be unsafe or unclean by local community members. For Zion, community service has also pushed him to become a better leader, as he has had to take action in order to get the job done. Zion is passionate about his Puerto Rican heritage. He believes that education holds the key to dispelling ignorance and fear of the unknown, both of which underpin the stereotyping that so many in the Hispanic/Latino community suffer from. With a GPA of 3.76, Zion is academically gifted, and with a wealth of AP and IB classes, he plans to further his path of education by studying History, Latin American Studies, or Latino/a Studies at Northwestern University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, or the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Silver - Joaquín DeVries
Major: History and Anthropology
GPA: 3.95
High School: Mishawaka High School
Heritage: Uruguayan
Joaquin DeVries’ interest in education stems from two sources: his father and his idea of a perfect career. His father, who spent twenty-five years teaching Spanish at the institutions of Christopher Newport University, Bethel University, and Manchester University, is a particularly personal inspiration for his desire to pursue a career in higher education. It’s no surprise then that with education in his blood, Joaquin too wants to become a professor and influence young lives, just as his father has. Joaquin’s subjects of choice are history and anthropology, a concoction for a modern-day Indiana Jones, if you will. And the prospect of combining classroom time with the prospect of teaching and fieldwork in the world – along the cobbled streets of Salamanca or in the bright waters of the Dominican Republic – is one he is enthralled by. Education is the core of Joaquin’s interest, but community service is also important to him, and he often gives back: serving food at a homeless shelter in his community called Hope Ministries or volunteering with his church. His attitude towards giving back is best summed up by the idea of “love your neighbor as yourself’, and he believes that if an entire community were to live by the principle of ‘loving your neighbor’, everyone would benefit. Joaquin also displays exceptional leadership capabilities – as captain of his soccer team, he led the team through a difficult start to the season – qualities that prepare him well for a career as an educator. With an impressive GPA of 3.95 and having been a National History Day Nationals Finalist in 2020, Joaquin is clearly an excellent academic student. He plans to study History and Anthropology at William Jewel College, Williams College, or the University of Chicago.
GPA: 3.95
High School: Mishawaka High School
Heritage: Uruguayan
Joaquin DeVries’ interest in education stems from two sources: his father and his idea of a perfect career. His father, who spent twenty-five years teaching Spanish at the institutions of Christopher Newport University, Bethel University, and Manchester University, is a particularly personal inspiration for his desire to pursue a career in higher education. It’s no surprise then that with education in his blood, Joaquin too wants to become a professor and influence young lives, just as his father has. Joaquin’s subjects of choice are history and anthropology, a concoction for a modern-day Indiana Jones, if you will. And the prospect of combining classroom time with the prospect of teaching and fieldwork in the world – along the cobbled streets of Salamanca or in the bright waters of the Dominican Republic – is one he is enthralled by. Education is the core of Joaquin’s interest, but community service is also important to him, and he often gives back: serving food at a homeless shelter in his community called Hope Ministries or volunteering with his church. His attitude towards giving back is best summed up by the idea of “love your neighbor as yourself’, and he believes that if an entire community were to live by the principle of ‘loving your neighbor’, everyone would benefit. Joaquin also displays exceptional leadership capabilities – as captain of his soccer team, he led the team through a difficult start to the season – qualities that prepare him well for a career as an educator. With an impressive GPA of 3.95 and having been a National History Day Nationals Finalist in 2020, Joaquin is clearly an excellent academic student. He plans to study History and Anthropology at William Jewel College, Williams College, or the University of Chicago.
Bronze - Aksel Juárez Mejía
Major: Secondary Education and Spanish
GPA: 3.55
High School: Ogden International
Heritage: Mexican
Helping others has always been a passion for Aksel Juárez Mejia, and his love of education was born from his own experiences of receiving help from tutors when he was much younger. As someone who understands the importance of academic guidance, he now wants to give back in the same way. As part of the Big Brothers and Sisters club, he has tutored and mentored younger students. His commitment to helping and educating others extends to his own community, as well, where he has helped younger students with Spanish schoolwork. This has now become Aksel’s main purpose: to help as many students as possible by becoming a teacher. This commitment to education is also deeply rooted in his sense of giving back. This year, as part of various community service initiatives, he collected canned food items, sealed hygiene products, and clothing items, taking them to a community organization near his house called The Bloc. He also organized food drives through his high school, using the proceeds to donate to various organizations that support families in need on a daily basis. These experiences have gifted Aksel various leadership qualities, and in doing so, he has learned the importance of keeping an open mind, ensuring others’ autonomy, and sharing ideas. Aksel is also deeply proud of his Mexican heritage, and he believes the Latino/Hispanic community has become more open-minded to people and communities of diverse backgrounds. As a student, Aksel displays a very strong 3.55 GPA, and he plans to continue his journey by studying Secondary Education and Spanish at Knox College, Macalester College, or Lake Forest College.
GPA: 3.55
High School: Ogden International
Heritage: Mexican
Helping others has always been a passion for Aksel Juárez Mejia, and his love of education was born from his own experiences of receiving help from tutors when he was much younger. As someone who understands the importance of academic guidance, he now wants to give back in the same way. As part of the Big Brothers and Sisters club, he has tutored and mentored younger students. His commitment to helping and educating others extends to his own community, as well, where he has helped younger students with Spanish schoolwork. This has now become Aksel’s main purpose: to help as many students as possible by becoming a teacher. This commitment to education is also deeply rooted in his sense of giving back. This year, as part of various community service initiatives, he collected canned food items, sealed hygiene products, and clothing items, taking them to a community organization near his house called The Bloc. He also organized food drives through his high school, using the proceeds to donate to various organizations that support families in need on a daily basis. These experiences have gifted Aksel various leadership qualities, and in doing so, he has learned the importance of keeping an open mind, ensuring others’ autonomy, and sharing ideas. Aksel is also deeply proud of his Mexican heritage, and he believes the Latino/Hispanic community has become more open-minded to people and communities of diverse backgrounds. As a student, Aksel displays a very strong 3.55 GPA, and he plans to continue his journey by studying Secondary Education and Spanish at Knox College, Macalester College, or Lake Forest College.
Engineering
Gold - Pablo Buitrago
Major: Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: Clayton High School
Heritage: Colombian
Pablo Buitrago fell in love with engineering in the fourth grade, when he went to see the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) world competition. Amazed by the complexity of the robots and the knowledge of the competitors, it inspired him to strive to reach the same level of confidence and knowledge. It seems his fourth grade-self would be proud today. Pablo has since decided to pursue STEM activities in school and co-founded the Science Olympiad (SO) team. He has specialized in physics and engineering events, building bridges, towers, cars, levers, hovercrafts, and much more. One of the things he loves most about SO? Its emphasis on teamwork. Pablo is a strong believer that we’re stronger together and strives for a future career in engineering that will allow him to collaborate on big projects and effect meaningful change. Pablo is also deeply proud of his Colombian roots and Latino heritage. This is evident in his establishment of established the Latin American Culture Club at his school. There, he and his peers have created a space where Hispanic students can share their culture with the larger school community and highlight the cultural diversity that exists and forms such an integral part of the world and nation. In terms of community service, Pablo is a staunch believer that the “self-made man” is a myth. Nobody gets anywhere without the guidance, support, or belief of their community, which is one of the reasons he works to give back, as well. Academically, Pablo is an excellent student, with a perfect GPA of 4.00, and various AP courses on his resume. He plans to continue his academic endeavors by studying Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, UC Berkeley, or Columbia University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Clayton High School
Heritage: Colombian
Pablo Buitrago fell in love with engineering in the fourth grade, when he went to see the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) world competition. Amazed by the complexity of the robots and the knowledge of the competitors, it inspired him to strive to reach the same level of confidence and knowledge. It seems his fourth grade-self would be proud today. Pablo has since decided to pursue STEM activities in school and co-founded the Science Olympiad (SO) team. He has specialized in physics and engineering events, building bridges, towers, cars, levers, hovercrafts, and much more. One of the things he loves most about SO? Its emphasis on teamwork. Pablo is a strong believer that we’re stronger together and strives for a future career in engineering that will allow him to collaborate on big projects and effect meaningful change. Pablo is also deeply proud of his Colombian roots and Latino heritage. This is evident in his establishment of established the Latin American Culture Club at his school. There, he and his peers have created a space where Hispanic students can share their culture with the larger school community and highlight the cultural diversity that exists and forms such an integral part of the world and nation. In terms of community service, Pablo is a staunch believer that the “self-made man” is a myth. Nobody gets anywhere without the guidance, support, or belief of their community, which is one of the reasons he works to give back, as well. Academically, Pablo is an excellent student, with a perfect GPA of 4.00, and various AP courses on his resume. He plans to continue his academic endeavors by studying Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, UC Berkeley, or Columbia University.
Silver - Mayahuel Malik
Major: Bio Engineering
GPA: 4.00
High School: University Laboratory School
Heritage: Mexican
When Mayahuel Malik was eight years old, she learned about the Axolotl and its regenerative powers – a tiny salamander able to regrow limbs and parts of its heart. It left her in awe – what if we could replicate this somehow? Spider’s silk, stronger than five times its weight in steel, yet elastic as a rubber band. What if we could engineer tendons and muscles to mimic this silk, transforming care for athletes, the elderly, even the average person? These are questions Mayahuel has been asking herself for years. In fact, she credits her Chicanx/Rarámuri upbringing and the recognition of her ancestors as land and all living beings, for her vast and probing interest in science and the natural environment. Mayahuel has further honed her interest throughout her academic career, taking an advanced bug biology course, as well as a host of Honors science and mathematics courses, including Organismal Biology and Field Biology. Mayahuel’s passion for science intersects with a desire to give back that comes straight from her family: her grandmother fought alongside Dolores Huerta for farmworkers’ rights and her mother campaigns for teachers’ and students’ rights in education. Mayahuel herself founded a group called Paign to Peace, where, among other activities, they convene meetings with community organizers and city officials about racism in education, police brutality and queer rights. As President of the Latinx Black Coalition, she presented the experiences of students of color at the school to the school principal, resulting in the school taking on board various initiatives. Mayahuel also has a brilliant 4.00 GPA, and she plans to study Bio Engineering at Stanford University, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, or the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.
GPA: 4.00
High School: University Laboratory School
Heritage: Mexican
When Mayahuel Malik was eight years old, she learned about the Axolotl and its regenerative powers – a tiny salamander able to regrow limbs and parts of its heart. It left her in awe – what if we could replicate this somehow? Spider’s silk, stronger than five times its weight in steel, yet elastic as a rubber band. What if we could engineer tendons and muscles to mimic this silk, transforming care for athletes, the elderly, even the average person? These are questions Mayahuel has been asking herself for years. In fact, she credits her Chicanx/Rarámuri upbringing and the recognition of her ancestors as land and all living beings, for her vast and probing interest in science and the natural environment. Mayahuel has further honed her interest throughout her academic career, taking an advanced bug biology course, as well as a host of Honors science and mathematics courses, including Organismal Biology and Field Biology. Mayahuel’s passion for science intersects with a desire to give back that comes straight from her family: her grandmother fought alongside Dolores Huerta for farmworkers’ rights and her mother campaigns for teachers’ and students’ rights in education. Mayahuel herself founded a group called Paign to Peace, where, among other activities, they convene meetings with community organizers and city officials about racism in education, police brutality and queer rights. As President of the Latinx Black Coalition, she presented the experiences of students of color at the school to the school principal, resulting in the school taking on board various initiatives. Mayahuel also has a brilliant 4.00 GPA, and she plans to study Bio Engineering at Stanford University, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, or the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.
Bronze - Mirian Mendoza
Major: Architecture
GPA: 4.00
High School: Wayne Memorial High School
Heritage: Mexican
Mirian Mendoza’s love of architecture came from a visit to her parents’ village in Mexico, Teotongo. At the center of the town lay a church, an embodiment of the town’s identity, and it quickly made her realize how architecture is truly a form of cultural and personal expression. According to Mirian, the way people perceive others and themselves is deeply influenced by architecture, and vice versa, and she hopes to pursue a career in the field realizing her own cultural identity in her future work. To prepare herself for her future academic and professional endeavors, she attended the Yale Young Global Scholars program, specifically Applied Science and Engineering, where she attended various lectures showcasing innovative approaches to many modern problems and learned to hyper-analyze the way humans interact with their surroundings – skills necessary for success in architecture. Mirian is also deeply committed to giving back and has participated in various activities, including a competitive fundraising event – Rivalz Week – in which her school and a neighboring rival school competed to raise the most money, generating $3500 for her district’s human resource center. Her extracurricular activities do not end there; Mirian is also a member of the student senate, Upward Bound, and the Interact Club at her high school, and serves as her swim team’s captain, where she has committed both her creativity and kindness to every task. With a GPA of 4.00, and various AP courses ranging from Calculus, to Environmental Science, to World History, and English Literature, she is a strong, well-rounded student, ready to commit herself to study Architecture at Yale University, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, or Lawrence Technological University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Wayne Memorial High School
Heritage: Mexican
Mirian Mendoza’s love of architecture came from a visit to her parents’ village in Mexico, Teotongo. At the center of the town lay a church, an embodiment of the town’s identity, and it quickly made her realize how architecture is truly a form of cultural and personal expression. According to Mirian, the way people perceive others and themselves is deeply influenced by architecture, and vice versa, and she hopes to pursue a career in the field realizing her own cultural identity in her future work. To prepare herself for her future academic and professional endeavors, she attended the Yale Young Global Scholars program, specifically Applied Science and Engineering, where she attended various lectures showcasing innovative approaches to many modern problems and learned to hyper-analyze the way humans interact with their surroundings – skills necessary for success in architecture. Mirian is also deeply committed to giving back and has participated in various activities, including a competitive fundraising event – Rivalz Week – in which her school and a neighboring rival school competed to raise the most money, generating $3500 for her district’s human resource center. Her extracurricular activities do not end there; Mirian is also a member of the student senate, Upward Bound, and the Interact Club at her high school, and serves as her swim team’s captain, where she has committed both her creativity and kindness to every task. With a GPA of 4.00, and various AP courses ranging from Calculus, to Environmental Science, to World History, and English Literature, she is a strong, well-rounded student, ready to commit herself to study Architecture at Yale University, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, or Lawrence Technological University.
Entrepreneurship
Gold - Elena Pauker
Major: Business and Entrepreneurship
GPA: 3.97
High School: Glenbrook South High School
Heritage: Colombian
Elena Pauker has always been interested in entrepreneurship. For the past six years, she has run an eBay vintage car slot store with inventory from her grandfather’s old store, handling marketing, sales and operations. She plans to expand her entrepreneurial ideas, incorporating her Latina heritage and exploring opportunities with green coffee, sourced from Latin America, which has no flavor, and more caffeine than regular coffee. Her theory is that for all those who aren’t fans of the taste of coffee, a product like this could deliver the same energy-boosting effects added to, say, smoothies. Ideas are not something in short supply when it comes to Elena, and to supplement that, she has taken courses and participated in programs to further hone her entrepreneurial skills and spirit. During the summer, she assisted Steelike, a start-up mixing ultra-high-performance concrete, with their market expansion strategy. She has also enrolled in high school courses such as Honors Accounting, AP Economics, Business Law, and Marketing to build a strong foundation for her understanding of business success and dynamics. Elena also believes in giving back, and as an avid gymnast, she has volunteered with the Illinois Special Olympics gymnastics organization for several years. She is also a founding member and vice-president of the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (NSLAC) Student Regional Board, where she raises awareness within her local community about the clinic’s pro-bono legal services for people struggling to receive fair treatment from their landlords. Putting her bilingualism to good use, she also offers Spanish translation services to assist non-English speakers in applying for affordable housing and understanding their leases. On top of all of that, Elena excels academically, with a GPA of 3.97. She plans to study Business and Entrepreneurship at University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, or Brown University.
GPA: 3.97
High School: Glenbrook South High School
Heritage: Colombian
Elena Pauker has always been interested in entrepreneurship. For the past six years, she has run an eBay vintage car slot store with inventory from her grandfather’s old store, handling marketing, sales and operations. She plans to expand her entrepreneurial ideas, incorporating her Latina heritage and exploring opportunities with green coffee, sourced from Latin America, which has no flavor, and more caffeine than regular coffee. Her theory is that for all those who aren’t fans of the taste of coffee, a product like this could deliver the same energy-boosting effects added to, say, smoothies. Ideas are not something in short supply when it comes to Elena, and to supplement that, she has taken courses and participated in programs to further hone her entrepreneurial skills and spirit. During the summer, she assisted Steelike, a start-up mixing ultra-high-performance concrete, with their market expansion strategy. She has also enrolled in high school courses such as Honors Accounting, AP Economics, Business Law, and Marketing to build a strong foundation for her understanding of business success and dynamics. Elena also believes in giving back, and as an avid gymnast, she has volunteered with the Illinois Special Olympics gymnastics organization for several years. She is also a founding member and vice-president of the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (NSLAC) Student Regional Board, where she raises awareness within her local community about the clinic’s pro-bono legal services for people struggling to receive fair treatment from their landlords. Putting her bilingualism to good use, she also offers Spanish translation services to assist non-English speakers in applying for affordable housing and understanding their leases. On top of all of that, Elena excels academically, with a GPA of 3.97. She plans to study Business and Entrepreneurship at University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, or Brown University.
Silver - Lidia Orta
Major: Business and Environmental Studies
GPA: 3.85
High School: New Trier High School
Heritage: Cuban
Lidia Orta wanted to bring some positivity into the world when the pandemic started, so she put her entrepreneurial skills to great use, launching her own shop on Etsy, where she sold her art in the form of greeting cards and stickers. Building a business is no small feat, and Lidia tackled every aspect: designing her own products, stocking inventory, and working out the specifics of a business plan. Entrepreneurship is risky business, but that’s one of the things she enjoys most – risk-taking and experimenting with different tactics to build her brand and increase her exposure. Eventually, Lidia’s cards were best-sellers and became one of Etsy’s top ten search results for “Thank You” cards, an impressive accomplishment for someone so young. Lidia saw her cards as more than a business strategy – they were a creative solution for increasing desperate times. A way to spread happiness amid a global pandemic. And that she did. If that’s any indication of Lidia’s future ambition, she is well on her way to success. Lidia’s talents extend beyond the creative, she is also an excellent athlete. Since early childhood she has played baseball in an all-boys baseball league and used her skills to coach a development camp in baseball for girls around her state, wanting to increase gender equality in the sport. As the elected leader of her school’s Environmental Club, she learned that leadership requires adaptability and an open mind, two things she prides herself on. With a GPA of 3.85, Lidia is an academically strong student as well, and maintains a range of AP and upper-level courses in various subjects. She plans to study business and environmental science at Northwestern University, Claremont McKenna College, or Santa Clara University.
GPA: 3.85
High School: New Trier High School
Heritage: Cuban
Lidia Orta wanted to bring some positivity into the world when the pandemic started, so she put her entrepreneurial skills to great use, launching her own shop on Etsy, where she sold her art in the form of greeting cards and stickers. Building a business is no small feat, and Lidia tackled every aspect: designing her own products, stocking inventory, and working out the specifics of a business plan. Entrepreneurship is risky business, but that’s one of the things she enjoys most – risk-taking and experimenting with different tactics to build her brand and increase her exposure. Eventually, Lidia’s cards were best-sellers and became one of Etsy’s top ten search results for “Thank You” cards, an impressive accomplishment for someone so young. Lidia saw her cards as more than a business strategy – they were a creative solution for increasing desperate times. A way to spread happiness amid a global pandemic. And that she did. If that’s any indication of Lidia’s future ambition, she is well on her way to success. Lidia’s talents extend beyond the creative, she is also an excellent athlete. Since early childhood she has played baseball in an all-boys baseball league and used her skills to coach a development camp in baseball for girls around her state, wanting to increase gender equality in the sport. As the elected leader of her school’s Environmental Club, she learned that leadership requires adaptability and an open mind, two things she prides herself on. With a GPA of 3.85, Lidia is an academically strong student as well, and maintains a range of AP and upper-level courses in various subjects. She plans to study business and environmental science at Northwestern University, Claremont McKenna College, or Santa Clara University.
Bronze - Carolina Remond
Major: Supply Chain Management
GPA: 3.76
High School: Richwoods High School
Heritage: Cuban
Since Carolina Remond was young, she has always toyed with the idea of starting her own business. Her ideas included, among others, a guacamole food truck – yum! – and a dog walking business. Already, she has had a taste of the entrepreneurial and business world, having worked various jobs since she was 14. In fact, she is currently employed at a restaurant that has been running for almost 50 years. A valued member of their staff and team, she often spends her days talking to the owner and learning as much as she can about his success as a business owner. Building a brand through leadership and loyalty is important and something Carolina has learned thanks to her experiences outside the classroom. However, she is equally as committed to academics, as well. Through her APPSCO business class, Carolina has learned the building blocks of a strong business, crafting business plans and recognizing the strategies for success. Business leaders tend to be community leaders, as well, and Carolina believes that communities are strongest when people work together to achieve a common goal. A perfect example of her commitment to others is her role as a staff member at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Illinois seminar, where she was tasked with coming up with an engaging, interactive seminar for participants. With her team, they were able to organize a transformational experience for participants, involving celebrity speakers and Zoom dance parties. Carolina is proud of her Cuban heritage and believes that being a Latina is about confidently carrying her culture wherever she goes. She hopes to unite her passions for business and Hispanic culture by joining the Hispanic Women Business Association and studying Supply Chain Management at the University of Tennessee, Michigan State University, or University of Arkansas.
GPA: 3.76
High School: Richwoods High School
Heritage: Cuban
Since Carolina Remond was young, she has always toyed with the idea of starting her own business. Her ideas included, among others, a guacamole food truck – yum! – and a dog walking business. Already, she has had a taste of the entrepreneurial and business world, having worked various jobs since she was 14. In fact, she is currently employed at a restaurant that has been running for almost 50 years. A valued member of their staff and team, she often spends her days talking to the owner and learning as much as she can about his success as a business owner. Building a brand through leadership and loyalty is important and something Carolina has learned thanks to her experiences outside the classroom. However, she is equally as committed to academics, as well. Through her APPSCO business class, Carolina has learned the building blocks of a strong business, crafting business plans and recognizing the strategies for success. Business leaders tend to be community leaders, as well, and Carolina believes that communities are strongest when people work together to achieve a common goal. A perfect example of her commitment to others is her role as a staff member at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Illinois seminar, where she was tasked with coming up with an engaging, interactive seminar for participants. With her team, they were able to organize a transformational experience for participants, involving celebrity speakers and Zoom dance parties. Carolina is proud of her Cuban heritage and believes that being a Latina is about confidently carrying her culture wherever she goes. She hopes to unite her passions for business and Hispanic culture by joining the Hispanic Women Business Association and studying Supply Chain Management at the University of Tennessee, Michigan State University, or University of Arkansas.
Healthcare & Science
Gold - Erica Pulido
Major: Nursing
GPA: 4.00
High School: Joliet Catholic Academy
Heritage: Mexican
For some people, a calling in life comes early, and Erica Pulido’s path to nursing was exactly that. Though the days of carrying around her Little Tike’s doctor kit and “curing” her Abuelito Jesse after a triple bypass surgery might be over, her commitment to medicine and her future professional goals is unwavering. As part of Camp Cardiac, a summer camp held at Rush University Hospital in Chicago, she learned to suture a wound, take a patient’s medical history and vitals, and got CPR/AED-certified, all incredibly useful and pertinent skills for a future nurse. Erica’s commitment to medicine is also one of empathy, and she began volunteering in an Emergency Room. Though she’d had sneaking suspicions that this was the path for her, that’s when her calling became clear. Giving back to others is something that has shaped the very core of Erica’s identity. This is perhaps best encapsulated by the time she spent volunteering at the Timbers of Shorewood Christmas Posada Event with her Abuelita while she worked there. The experience furthered her empathetic skills and solidified her desire for a profession that contributed to the betterment of society. As Erica says, giving back to others is what makes our world go around, and she wants to be a part of that. The medical field requires diligence and a take-charge attitude, qualities Erica clearly exemplifies. With a perfect 4.00 and a host of AP courses ranging from Spanish to Biology, as well as various awards and recognitions, she clearly excels academically. She plans to further her academic and professional career by studying Nursing at University of Michigan Ann-Arbor, Loyola University Chicago, or Saint Louis University. With her attitude and commitment to others, any one of these programs will be lucky to have her.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Joliet Catholic Academy
Heritage: Mexican
For some people, a calling in life comes early, and Erica Pulido’s path to nursing was exactly that. Though the days of carrying around her Little Tike’s doctor kit and “curing” her Abuelito Jesse after a triple bypass surgery might be over, her commitment to medicine and her future professional goals is unwavering. As part of Camp Cardiac, a summer camp held at Rush University Hospital in Chicago, she learned to suture a wound, take a patient’s medical history and vitals, and got CPR/AED-certified, all incredibly useful and pertinent skills for a future nurse. Erica’s commitment to medicine is also one of empathy, and she began volunteering in an Emergency Room. Though she’d had sneaking suspicions that this was the path for her, that’s when her calling became clear. Giving back to others is something that has shaped the very core of Erica’s identity. This is perhaps best encapsulated by the time she spent volunteering at the Timbers of Shorewood Christmas Posada Event with her Abuelita while she worked there. The experience furthered her empathetic skills and solidified her desire for a profession that contributed to the betterment of society. As Erica says, giving back to others is what makes our world go around, and she wants to be a part of that. The medical field requires diligence and a take-charge attitude, qualities Erica clearly exemplifies. With a perfect 4.00 and a host of AP courses ranging from Spanish to Biology, as well as various awards and recognitions, she clearly excels academically. She plans to further her academic and professional career by studying Nursing at University of Michigan Ann-Arbor, Loyola University Chicago, or Saint Louis University. With her attitude and commitment to others, any one of these programs will be lucky to have her.
Silver - Mariah Cárdenas
Major: Nursing
GPA: 4.00
High School: Muskego High School
Heritage: Mexican
According to her teachers, Mariah Cárdenas is an immediate standout. Seldom do you see someone with such desire and dedication, able to occupy an academic space with confidence and move seamlessly through extracurricular music, athletic, and volunteer opportunities. Well-rounded is certainly a term that describes Mariah, but her passion is clear: she wants to be a nurse. Maria has had a strong interest in the medical field since she was a little girl. Already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), her academic experiences have offered her a glimpse of life working in a healthcare setting. As of now, Maria works as a CNA in a senior living facility, where she assists residents with normal activities of daily life, forming meaningful relationships with each of them. She is also deeply committed to giving back and participates in a wide range of clubs spanning Student Council, FBLA, Key Club, national honors societies, and more. As part of Warriors 101, she mentors incoming freshmen weeks before the school year starts and supports them through their first year as high school students. Her love for others and for her community is what drives Mariah to give back, and this is an incredibly important quality, critical to a profession like nursing. In addition to her extracurricular activities, Maria is academically gifted and maintains a perfect GPA of 4.00 amid a course schedule crammed with AP courses ranging from Calculus to English Composition. Proud of her Hispanic/Latina heritage, she hopes to serve as an example and one day empower the next generation of her community. She plans to study Nursing at Marquette, UW-Madison, or the Milwaukee School of Engineering.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Muskego High School
Heritage: Mexican
According to her teachers, Mariah Cárdenas is an immediate standout. Seldom do you see someone with such desire and dedication, able to occupy an academic space with confidence and move seamlessly through extracurricular music, athletic, and volunteer opportunities. Well-rounded is certainly a term that describes Mariah, but her passion is clear: she wants to be a nurse. Maria has had a strong interest in the medical field since she was a little girl. Already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), her academic experiences have offered her a glimpse of life working in a healthcare setting. As of now, Maria works as a CNA in a senior living facility, where she assists residents with normal activities of daily life, forming meaningful relationships with each of them. She is also deeply committed to giving back and participates in a wide range of clubs spanning Student Council, FBLA, Key Club, national honors societies, and more. As part of Warriors 101, she mentors incoming freshmen weeks before the school year starts and supports them through their first year as high school students. Her love for others and for her community is what drives Mariah to give back, and this is an incredibly important quality, critical to a profession like nursing. In addition to her extracurricular activities, Maria is academically gifted and maintains a perfect GPA of 4.00 amid a course schedule crammed with AP courses ranging from Calculus to English Composition. Proud of her Hispanic/Latina heritage, she hopes to serve as an example and one day empower the next generation of her community. She plans to study Nursing at Marquette, UW-Madison, or the Milwaukee School of Engineering.
Bronze - Kayla Morán-Valle
Major: Biology
GPA: 3.90
High School: Divine Savior Holy Angels
Heritage: Mexican
It’s not many people who can make a mentor’s job feel effortless, but that’s exactly what Kayla Morán-Valle’s mentor said of her. Never one to back down from a challenge, she has repeatedly pushed herself and hopes to one day become a pediatrician. In fact, Kayla has seemingly always been interested in healthcare and science, and her high school career has offered her various avenues to explore. For instance, during her sophomore year, she became a Clinical Laboratory Volunteer at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center, gaining experience within the medical field. She has also taken science-focused classes, such as Accelerated Biology, Chemistry, Honors Anatomy, Physics and AP Biology to prepare herself for the pre-med academic path. On top of her academic prowess, she advocates for spreading awareness on the worldwide injustices committed against children through an Instagram project she created called “Recognizing Injustice,”, a clear example of her commitment to children and pediatric care. Kayla’s extracurricular activities are also admirable - she is the leader of a cultural club at her school called Furia Latina, which aims to spread Latin/Hispanic culture throughout the school and celebrate it. Community service is something which is very valuable to her, and this informs her desire to pursue a career in the medical field, as she wants to be able to help people – especially children – not only in her community, but around the world, who are victims of inadequate healthcare. With a GPA of 3.90, she is an excellent student academically, to go with AP courses ranging from Biology to History to English Language and Composition. She plans to study at Biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, or Saint Louis University.
GPA: 3.90
High School: Divine Savior Holy Angels
Heritage: Mexican
It’s not many people who can make a mentor’s job feel effortless, but that’s exactly what Kayla Morán-Valle’s mentor said of her. Never one to back down from a challenge, she has repeatedly pushed herself and hopes to one day become a pediatrician. In fact, Kayla has seemingly always been interested in healthcare and science, and her high school career has offered her various avenues to explore. For instance, during her sophomore year, she became a Clinical Laboratory Volunteer at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center, gaining experience within the medical field. She has also taken science-focused classes, such as Accelerated Biology, Chemistry, Honors Anatomy, Physics and AP Biology to prepare herself for the pre-med academic path. On top of her academic prowess, she advocates for spreading awareness on the worldwide injustices committed against children through an Instagram project she created called “Recognizing Injustice,”, a clear example of her commitment to children and pediatric care. Kayla’s extracurricular activities are also admirable - she is the leader of a cultural club at her school called Furia Latina, which aims to spread Latin/Hispanic culture throughout the school and celebrate it. Community service is something which is very valuable to her, and this informs her desire to pursue a career in the medical field, as she wants to be able to help people – especially children – not only in her community, but around the world, who are victims of inadequate healthcare. With a GPA of 3.90, she is an excellent student academically, to go with AP courses ranging from Biology to History to English Language and Composition. She plans to study at Biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University, or Saint Louis University.
Media & Entertainment
Gold - Daniela Morales
Major: Filmmaking
GPA: 4.00
High School: The Chicago High School for the Arts
Heritage: Colombian
Daniela Morales’s childhood was steeped in storytelling. Both her parents, adept in the art of crafting a tale, told her stories of their travel and experiences, reading books from the countries they visited. They nurtured this same passion in Daniela herself, and it is for this and many other reasons that she has chosen a career dedicated to doing the same. At her high school, ChiArts, Daniela has been able to learn and grow with her passion, engaging with all forms of writing every day. She participated in Northwestern’s NHSI Film Division as a playwright, where she crafted a play, which was later stage-read by a group of teen actors. The process quickly made her realize the capacity of filmmaking to tell a story. Even more importantly, when one of the actresses approached her later to tell her how much it meant that she had created a story that centered a lesbian character, she realized the impact she could have, and her fate was sealed. Since then, Daniela has worked hard to hone her craft and learned the value of communicating, delegating, and leadership. Her leadership skills also shine through in her commitment to community service, where in one particular instance, she had the opportunity to translate the words of young writers into Spanish. As someone who did not speak English when she first arrived in the US, Daniela personally understands the impact that multilingual and diverse stories can have on viewers. The result of this was a published anthology of their writing in both English and Spanish. Apart from her clear creative streak, Daniela is also an excellent student with a 4.00 GPA, a range of AP classes, and various awards and recognition for her achievements. She plans to study filmmaking at Northwestern University, Columbia College Chicago, or DePaul University, and it won’t be long until her films are on the big screen.
GPA: 4.00
High School: The Chicago High School for the Arts
Heritage: Colombian
Daniela Morales’s childhood was steeped in storytelling. Both her parents, adept in the art of crafting a tale, told her stories of their travel and experiences, reading books from the countries they visited. They nurtured this same passion in Daniela herself, and it is for this and many other reasons that she has chosen a career dedicated to doing the same. At her high school, ChiArts, Daniela has been able to learn and grow with her passion, engaging with all forms of writing every day. She participated in Northwestern’s NHSI Film Division as a playwright, where she crafted a play, which was later stage-read by a group of teen actors. The process quickly made her realize the capacity of filmmaking to tell a story. Even more importantly, when one of the actresses approached her later to tell her how much it meant that she had created a story that centered a lesbian character, she realized the impact she could have, and her fate was sealed. Since then, Daniela has worked hard to hone her craft and learned the value of communicating, delegating, and leadership. Her leadership skills also shine through in her commitment to community service, where in one particular instance, she had the opportunity to translate the words of young writers into Spanish. As someone who did not speak English when she first arrived in the US, Daniela personally understands the impact that multilingual and diverse stories can have on viewers. The result of this was a published anthology of their writing in both English and Spanish. Apart from her clear creative streak, Daniela is also an excellent student with a 4.00 GPA, a range of AP classes, and various awards and recognition for her achievements. She plans to study filmmaking at Northwestern University, Columbia College Chicago, or DePaul University, and it won’t be long until her films are on the big screen.
Silver - Liliana Pulido
Major: Sound recording technology/Audio engineer
GPA: 4.00
High School: Carver Military Academy
Heritage: Mexican
Liliana Pulido was eight years old when she learned how to play the guitar. But that was only the beginning. Admiring her siblings’ interest in music, she diligently took to each new instrument with poise. Though her siblings have since stopped playing, Liliana has only dived deeper into music. Today she plays the guitar, the violin and the trumpet and views her surroundings and culture as all the inspiration for her craft. Extremely proud of her Mexican heritage, she often enjoys incorporating Latin music into her creations, singing in Spanish. Through the many ensembles and programs available at her school, Liliana has continued to expand her musical education. She currently performs in the All-City Performing Arts High School Modern Band, Orchestra, and Mariachi ensemble. These experiences have only furthered Liliana’s desire to pursue music professionally, and ultimately to study to become an audio engineer. Apart from her creative fluency, Liliana is also a stellar student and maintains a 4.00 GPA amid rigorous and competitive coursework. Competition and challenges are no barrier for her, as her experience as the Carver Military Academy’s Brigade Commander has shown. Despite unfortunate comments by her male peers that she might be “too emotional” for a top cadet ranking position, she defied expectation and was promptly promoted. Liliana hopes to be a role model for future female cadets, as well as girls in general, to demonstrate that gender does not constrain us by any means. With a host of awards and commendations, she is primed for success in her future Sound Recording Technology/Audio Engineering studies at DePaul University, Columbia College Chicago, or the University of Illinois at Chicago.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Carver Military Academy
Heritage: Mexican
Liliana Pulido was eight years old when she learned how to play the guitar. But that was only the beginning. Admiring her siblings’ interest in music, she diligently took to each new instrument with poise. Though her siblings have since stopped playing, Liliana has only dived deeper into music. Today she plays the guitar, the violin and the trumpet and views her surroundings and culture as all the inspiration for her craft. Extremely proud of her Mexican heritage, she often enjoys incorporating Latin music into her creations, singing in Spanish. Through the many ensembles and programs available at her school, Liliana has continued to expand her musical education. She currently performs in the All-City Performing Arts High School Modern Band, Orchestra, and Mariachi ensemble. These experiences have only furthered Liliana’s desire to pursue music professionally, and ultimately to study to become an audio engineer. Apart from her creative fluency, Liliana is also a stellar student and maintains a 4.00 GPA amid rigorous and competitive coursework. Competition and challenges are no barrier for her, as her experience as the Carver Military Academy’s Brigade Commander has shown. Despite unfortunate comments by her male peers that she might be “too emotional” for a top cadet ranking position, she defied expectation and was promptly promoted. Liliana hopes to be a role model for future female cadets, as well as girls in general, to demonstrate that gender does not constrain us by any means. With a host of awards and commendations, she is primed for success in her future Sound Recording Technology/Audio Engineering studies at DePaul University, Columbia College Chicago, or the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Bronze - Arianna Kerchmar
Major: Media Studies with a minor in Psychology
GPA: 4.00
High School: Harlem High School
Heritage: Mexican
Arianna Kerchmar has been an artist ever since she can remember. With the gentle guidance of art teachers, her craft has flourished, and she has developed a profound love for artistic expression, music, photography and filmmaking. If there is one thing Arianna wants out of a future career, it’s one that she loves and feels passionate about. Already having won Best Supporting Actress in 2020, she seems well on her way to a career in the arts. Despite media studies being her primary focus, Arianna is also deeply interested in people and seeks to understand the ways in which people function, and how certain events and experiences translate into the realities of people’s lives. This is one of the reasons she hopes to minor in Psychology. Arianna’s passion for the arts and for community service converge with her involvement with theater programs that give opportunities to people with Down’s Syndrome to perform in plays. Prior to the pandemic, she had planned to partner these programs with her school’s art program to teach Down Syndrome youth how to fingerpaint and draw, though the COVID-19 outbreak ground her plans to an unfortunate halt. Nevertheless, community service is very important to Arianna, particularly in regard to giving back to disabled children. Her mother, someone Arianna respects and deeply admires, worked at a hospital specializing in speech therapy, and she once shadowed one of her mother’s friends, where she had the opportunity to work with disabled youth. In addition to extracurricular activities and a deep commitment to artistic expression, Arianna is also a gifted academic, with a GPA of 4.00. She plans to continue her artistic journey by studying Media Studies and Psychology at Loras College.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Harlem High School
Heritage: Mexican
Arianna Kerchmar has been an artist ever since she can remember. With the gentle guidance of art teachers, her craft has flourished, and she has developed a profound love for artistic expression, music, photography and filmmaking. If there is one thing Arianna wants out of a future career, it’s one that she loves and feels passionate about. Already having won Best Supporting Actress in 2020, she seems well on her way to a career in the arts. Despite media studies being her primary focus, Arianna is also deeply interested in people and seeks to understand the ways in which people function, and how certain events and experiences translate into the realities of people’s lives. This is one of the reasons she hopes to minor in Psychology. Arianna’s passion for the arts and for community service converge with her involvement with theater programs that give opportunities to people with Down’s Syndrome to perform in plays. Prior to the pandemic, she had planned to partner these programs with her school’s art program to teach Down Syndrome youth how to fingerpaint and draw, though the COVID-19 outbreak ground her plans to an unfortunate halt. Nevertheless, community service is very important to Arianna, particularly in regard to giving back to disabled children. Her mother, someone Arianna respects and deeply admires, worked at a hospital specializing in speech therapy, and she once shadowed one of her mother’s friends, where she had the opportunity to work with disabled youth. In addition to extracurricular activities and a deep commitment to artistic expression, Arianna is also a gifted academic, with a GPA of 4.00. She plans to continue her artistic journey by studying Media Studies and Psychology at Loras College.
Public Service
Gold - Joshua MacKinnon
Major: Organizational Leadership
GPA: 4.00
High School: Purdue Polytechnic High School
Heritage: Mexican
Joshua MacKinnon is deeply passionate about equality and representation within his community. After grown up in Mexico City and moving back to the US at the age of seven, his family began taking care of refugees from Central American, especially unaccompanied minors in need of asylum. His unique experiences, combined with his heritage, as well as his passion for helping others, encouraged him to take a stand, and he began participating in the Indianapolis Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council, where he and his peers help advise the mayor on a range of issues, including mental health, diversity and inclusion in the school systems, equal rights, and much more. Joshua’s commitment to others clearly runs in his veins. He and his family created a tutoring organization called Las Ramas in a nearby area home to many immigrant families. They would invite the families over for dinner, offer English lessons, and tutor younger students in hopes of helping them excel in their studies. But his commitment to others does not end there - Joshua and his family are also in charge of Pour House, a non-profit organization which provides housing for houseless persons in Indianapolis, and he has been involved with Bethany Christian Services, which provides safe homes for unaccompanied minors from Central America and seeks to reunite them with their families stateside. He feels he has learned more from the people he has helped than from any textbook, and he is committed to continuing to learn so that he can keep giving back. Textbooks are still something Joshua is comfortable with and his 4.00 GPA proves that. A bright and motivated student, he plans to continue his remarkable journey by studying Organizational Leadership at Purdue University, Ball State University, or Indiana University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Purdue Polytechnic High School
Heritage: Mexican
Joshua MacKinnon is deeply passionate about equality and representation within his community. After grown up in Mexico City and moving back to the US at the age of seven, his family began taking care of refugees from Central American, especially unaccompanied minors in need of asylum. His unique experiences, combined with his heritage, as well as his passion for helping others, encouraged him to take a stand, and he began participating in the Indianapolis Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council, where he and his peers help advise the mayor on a range of issues, including mental health, diversity and inclusion in the school systems, equal rights, and much more. Joshua’s commitment to others clearly runs in his veins. He and his family created a tutoring organization called Las Ramas in a nearby area home to many immigrant families. They would invite the families over for dinner, offer English lessons, and tutor younger students in hopes of helping them excel in their studies. But his commitment to others does not end there - Joshua and his family are also in charge of Pour House, a non-profit organization which provides housing for houseless persons in Indianapolis, and he has been involved with Bethany Christian Services, which provides safe homes for unaccompanied minors from Central America and seeks to reunite them with their families stateside. He feels he has learned more from the people he has helped than from any textbook, and he is committed to continuing to learn so that he can keep giving back. Textbooks are still something Joshua is comfortable with and his 4.00 GPA proves that. A bright and motivated student, he plans to continue his remarkable journey by studying Organizational Leadership at Purdue University, Ball State University, or Indiana University.
Silver - Alexa Camilleri
Major: Political Science
GPA: 4.00
High School: Gabriel Richard Catholic High School
Heritage: Mexican
Alexa Camilleri has always known that she wants to make a difference in her future career, and what better way to serve the public than to serve in public office. She realized that politics would be the ideal fit for her future profession after helping her brother run for the Michigan House of Representatives, where she volunteered by making phone calls, passing out literature on Election Day, and helping at fundraisers. This process introduced her to the ins and outs of the election process and gave her the opportunity to meet people like her governor, senators, congresswomen and countless other state representatives. She now hopes to go into this field and advocate for women’s rights, immigrants’ rights, minority rights, climate change and much more. Too often people within our communities do not have the platform or voice to express real concerns. Alexa hopes to address this and act as the voice for those very people. Community service goes hand-in-hand with public service positions, and it is something close to her heart. Three years ago, she worked with Kids Against Hunger to package meals for children in need. She has also volunteered at a local food bank and packaged activity bags for kids at a children’s hospital. Alexa enjoys putting effort into the things that benefit others. She is very proud of her Hispanic/Latino heritage and feels that Latinos often go unnoticed and underappreciated. Everyone is certainly noticing her, and with an excellent 4.00 GPA, a host of advanced placement classes ranging from US Government to Calculus, and a range of commendations, it’s a matter of time before she’s on the Senate (or equivalent!) floor. Alexa’s immediate future involves a degree in Political Science from University of Michigan, Georgetown University, or Xavier University.
GPA: 4.00
High School: Gabriel Richard Catholic High School
Heritage: Mexican
Alexa Camilleri has always known that she wants to make a difference in her future career, and what better way to serve the public than to serve in public office. She realized that politics would be the ideal fit for her future profession after helping her brother run for the Michigan House of Representatives, where she volunteered by making phone calls, passing out literature on Election Day, and helping at fundraisers. This process introduced her to the ins and outs of the election process and gave her the opportunity to meet people like her governor, senators, congresswomen and countless other state representatives. She now hopes to go into this field and advocate for women’s rights, immigrants’ rights, minority rights, climate change and much more. Too often people within our communities do not have the platform or voice to express real concerns. Alexa hopes to address this and act as the voice for those very people. Community service goes hand-in-hand with public service positions, and it is something close to her heart. Three years ago, she worked with Kids Against Hunger to package meals for children in need. She has also volunteered at a local food bank and packaged activity bags for kids at a children’s hospital. Alexa enjoys putting effort into the things that benefit others. She is very proud of her Hispanic/Latino heritage and feels that Latinos often go unnoticed and underappreciated. Everyone is certainly noticing her, and with an excellent 4.00 GPA, a host of advanced placement classes ranging from US Government to Calculus, and a range of commendations, it’s a matter of time before she’s on the Senate (or equivalent!) floor. Alexa’s immediate future involves a degree in Political Science from University of Michigan, Georgetown University, or Xavier University.
Bronze - Kaitlynn Tran
Major: Political Science or Mathematics
GPA: 3.99
High School: Whitney M Young Magnet High School
Heritage: Mexican
According to Kaitlynn Trann, in today’s society, social justice is a controversial topic. With battle lines drawn and staunch advocates on both sides, it requires an inventive solution. The first step, in Kaitlynn’s opinion? Have difficult conversations. Though she recognizes this is easier said than done and will not resolve all of our social problems, it is a good – and necessary place to start. That’s what Kaitlynn is doing. A firm believer that diversity is what makes us strong, Kaitlynn has an enviable commitment to civil service and has had experiences both in and outside the classroom that strengthen her resilience and foundational knowledge. In her Government and Law course at school, she wrote a letter to an elected official identifying an issue with a sewer behind her house and suggesting a potential solution – redirect water toward the sewers away from the row of houses on the street. The alderman immediately took action, and Kaitlynn quickly learned the impact of being an active member of the community. Apart from her commitment to community service, Kaitlynn is also very active in her school community, as a member of the National Honor Society, Tri-M (Music) Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Freshmen Mentors. As part of Freshmen Mentors, she is a division leader and responsible for guiding other mentors, a task she completes with grace and ease. With a GPA of 3.99, she is academically talented, and a wide range of advanced placement courses prepare her well for her future in public service. Kaitlynn plans on studying either Political Science or Mathematics at the University of Manchester, University of Oregon, or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
GPA: 3.99
High School: Whitney M Young Magnet High School
Heritage: Mexican
According to Kaitlynn Trann, in today’s society, social justice is a controversial topic. With battle lines drawn and staunch advocates on both sides, it requires an inventive solution. The first step, in Kaitlynn’s opinion? Have difficult conversations. Though she recognizes this is easier said than done and will not resolve all of our social problems, it is a good – and necessary place to start. That’s what Kaitlynn is doing. A firm believer that diversity is what makes us strong, Kaitlynn has an enviable commitment to civil service and has had experiences both in and outside the classroom that strengthen her resilience and foundational knowledge. In her Government and Law course at school, she wrote a letter to an elected official identifying an issue with a sewer behind her house and suggesting a potential solution – redirect water toward the sewers away from the row of houses on the street. The alderman immediately took action, and Kaitlynn quickly learned the impact of being an active member of the community. Apart from her commitment to community service, Kaitlynn is also very active in her school community, as a member of the National Honor Society, Tri-M (Music) Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Freshmen Mentors. As part of Freshmen Mentors, she is a division leader and responsible for guiding other mentors, a task she completes with grace and ease. With a GPA of 3.99, she is academically talented, and a wide range of advanced placement courses prepare her well for her future in public service. Kaitlynn plans on studying either Political Science or Mathematics at the University of Manchester, University of Oregon, or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Social Justice
Gold - Nataly España
Major: Criminal Law/Political Science/Pre-Law/Creative Writing
GPA: 3.43
High School: Lane Technical High School
Heritage: Guatemalan
Nataly España comes from a family of immigrants – strong, resilient, and intelligent people, who have granted her opportunities to succeed. Her grandfather was an activist in Guatemala, and she credits him for her sense of determination and commitment to helping others. Nataly is actively involved in an organization called CAUSE, dedicated to helping students with their college applications, and she learned a lot of valuable information that could help undocumented students. As a member of her school’s DREAMers club, she helped put together a presentation about the struggles of immigrants, both with and without papers, spreading awareness of many of the trials facing people across the United States. A beautiful writer, she also contributes articles for a magazine about environmental awareness, focusing on topics relating to politics involving the environment such as the Green New Deal or the situation in the Amazon. There are many ways to contribute toward social justice, and clearly, Nataly works in her fair share. A diligent, kind, and well-liked young woman, she has grown confident over the last few years, learning to speak her mind and stand tall even in the face of fear. She is very proud of her Guatemalan heritage and believes that the key to promoting cultural pride and empowering this generation is to communicate and educate others. With a wealth of honors and AP-level classes under belt, she is academically gifted, as well, and she plans to study Criminal Law/Political Science/Pre-Law/Creative Writing at University of Illinois at Chicago, University of Chicago, or the Loyola University in Chicago.
GPA: 3.43
High School: Lane Technical High School
Heritage: Guatemalan
Nataly España comes from a family of immigrants – strong, resilient, and intelligent people, who have granted her opportunities to succeed. Her grandfather was an activist in Guatemala, and she credits him for her sense of determination and commitment to helping others. Nataly is actively involved in an organization called CAUSE, dedicated to helping students with their college applications, and she learned a lot of valuable information that could help undocumented students. As a member of her school’s DREAMers club, she helped put together a presentation about the struggles of immigrants, both with and without papers, spreading awareness of many of the trials facing people across the United States. A beautiful writer, she also contributes articles for a magazine about environmental awareness, focusing on topics relating to politics involving the environment such as the Green New Deal or the situation in the Amazon. There are many ways to contribute toward social justice, and clearly, Nataly works in her fair share. A diligent, kind, and well-liked young woman, she has grown confident over the last few years, learning to speak her mind and stand tall even in the face of fear. She is very proud of her Guatemalan heritage and believes that the key to promoting cultural pride and empowering this generation is to communicate and educate others. With a wealth of honors and AP-level classes under belt, she is academically gifted, as well, and she plans to study Criminal Law/Political Science/Pre-Law/Creative Writing at University of Illinois at Chicago, University of Chicago, or the Loyola University in Chicago.
Silver - Joselín Aguilar Gramajo
Major: Journalism and Political Science
GPA: 3.36
High School: The Arts and College Preparatory Academy
Heritage: Guatemalan and Salvadoran
Social Justice has been an important topic for Joselin Aguilar Gramajo since middle school and it truly is a passion of hers to be able to advocate for people like her. For Joselin, growing up seeing the difficulties people face because of race, religion and gender in society was troubling, but it has helped her grow as an individual and greatly influenced her desire to be actively involved in social justice. She sees her role as an activist as someone who can offer information and insights – perhaps people don’t understand, or perhaps they have the privilege not to see racism, sexism, and other discrimination – and in turn help influence others’ views. These are exactly the reasons that she started her school’s first-ever diversity club and launched the Hispanic heritage month panels. Joselin feels she truly learned how to be an activist at the ACLU Summer Institute. Spending time in Washington DC, she learned to use her voice to empower others and saw the many ways in which she could start a change in the world. Her drive to be an activist is to change people’s lives for the better. Activism requires being able to command an audience, no matter how small, and Joselin’s leadership are a testament to her future success. Being her school’s Model UN President in her junior year, she learned that being a leader should bring one joy as much as it brings one work. A stunning writer, she has also been able to hone her writing skills, particularly poetry, in her school’s Creative Writing class. Poetry offers Joselin an avenue through which she can channel and share her experiences around social justice. Coupled with her moving performances, she is a force to be reckoned with, and she has since honed her skills even further. Joselin plans to use her talents, skills and dedication to continue on her academic path by studying Journalism and Political Science at Ohio University, American University, or Hofstra University.
GPA: 3.36
High School: The Arts and College Preparatory Academy
Heritage: Guatemalan and Salvadoran
Social Justice has been an important topic for Joselin Aguilar Gramajo since middle school and it truly is a passion of hers to be able to advocate for people like her. For Joselin, growing up seeing the difficulties people face because of race, religion and gender in society was troubling, but it has helped her grow as an individual and greatly influenced her desire to be actively involved in social justice. She sees her role as an activist as someone who can offer information and insights – perhaps people don’t understand, or perhaps they have the privilege not to see racism, sexism, and other discrimination – and in turn help influence others’ views. These are exactly the reasons that she started her school’s first-ever diversity club and launched the Hispanic heritage month panels. Joselin feels she truly learned how to be an activist at the ACLU Summer Institute. Spending time in Washington DC, she learned to use her voice to empower others and saw the many ways in which she could start a change in the world. Her drive to be an activist is to change people’s lives for the better. Activism requires being able to command an audience, no matter how small, and Joselin’s leadership are a testament to her future success. Being her school’s Model UN President in her junior year, she learned that being a leader should bring one joy as much as it brings one work. A stunning writer, she has also been able to hone her writing skills, particularly poetry, in her school’s Creative Writing class. Poetry offers Joselin an avenue through which she can channel and share her experiences around social justice. Coupled with her moving performances, she is a force to be reckoned with, and she has since honed her skills even further. Joselin plans to use her talents, skills and dedication to continue on her academic path by studying Journalism and Political Science at Ohio University, American University, or Hofstra University.
Bronze - Natalia Pérez
Major: Political Science / Pre-Law track
GPA: 3.80
High School: Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
Heritage: Mexican
Over the years, Natalia Perez has constructed a love and passion for political science and the US judicial system. As she explored and enriched her knowledge of the field, she was shocked to see so few attorneys that looked like her. As a Mexican-American woman, her newest ambition is to help diversify the field of law and politics. To prepare, Natalia has thrown herself into schoolwork focusing on law and government. In her junior year, she joined the Loyola Law School Law Program for high school students, which was a three-week program taught by the Graduate Students of the Law School. She learned about our rights as individuals, engaged in ethical decision activities, and participated in mock trials. A big part of Natalia’s interest in law stems from her passion for community service, which comes from her mother who always tried to take time out of her day to help others in any way she could. In 2019, when Natalia traveled to Costa Rica through a program called AMIGOS de las Americas, she fostered her passion for social justice. This nonprofit summer immersion program allows teens in the United States to travel to a Latin American country where they work alongside community leaders, children and family members in a project chosen by the community. During her stay, she painted the local school building and worked with teachers to organize a health day for the students of the community and neighboring communities. Working in another country taught Natalia the importance of inclusion. She is very proud of her Mexican heritage and wears the pride of a Chicana on her sleeve. With a GPA of 3.80, and wide range of AP courses, from United States History, to US Government and Politics, to Spanish Language and Culture, she is an excellent student academically. She plans to study Political Science / Pre-Law track at Northwestern University, University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign, or the American University.
GPA: 3.80
High School: Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
Heritage: Mexican
Over the years, Natalia Perez has constructed a love and passion for political science and the US judicial system. As she explored and enriched her knowledge of the field, she was shocked to see so few attorneys that looked like her. As a Mexican-American woman, her newest ambition is to help diversify the field of law and politics. To prepare, Natalia has thrown herself into schoolwork focusing on law and government. In her junior year, she joined the Loyola Law School Law Program for high school students, which was a three-week program taught by the Graduate Students of the Law School. She learned about our rights as individuals, engaged in ethical decision activities, and participated in mock trials. A big part of Natalia’s interest in law stems from her passion for community service, which comes from her mother who always tried to take time out of her day to help others in any way she could. In 2019, when Natalia traveled to Costa Rica through a program called AMIGOS de las Americas, she fostered her passion for social justice. This nonprofit summer immersion program allows teens in the United States to travel to a Latin American country where they work alongside community leaders, children and family members in a project chosen by the community. During her stay, she painted the local school building and worked with teachers to organize a health day for the students of the community and neighboring communities. Working in another country taught Natalia the importance of inclusion. She is very proud of her Mexican heritage and wears the pride of a Chicana on her sleeve. With a GPA of 3.80, and wide range of AP courses, from United States History, to US Government and Politics, to Spanish Language and Culture, she is an excellent student academically. She plans to study Political Science / Pre-Law track at Northwestern University, University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign, or the American University.
Technology
Gold - Jaslin García-Morales
Major: Software Engineering
GPA: 3.85
High School: Advanced Technology Academy
Heritage: Guatemalan
Technology is a fascinating field because it has the ability to intersect with so many causes. For Jaslin Garcia-Morales, that intersection is with the environment and health. Her professional goals are optimistic and exciting: to reduce pollution, poverty, and climate change. Jaslin plans to become a Software Engineer and hopes, in doing so, to be able to solve some of the world’s most complex problems – helping to save lives by creating technological advancements that will improve the way we live. She is already well on her way, having taken Computer Science and IT courses, as well as Engineering throughout high school. Jaslin is also a member of First Robotics, where she serves as one of the team programmers. Already, she has received four IT certifications, which include skills in operating systems and working with Linux, along with configuring, securing, and managing computer software and hardware. She has also participated in the Girls Who Code Summer Program at the University of Michigan, learning and honing her understanding of coding. Jaslin is clearly well on her way to her end goal, and we can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. She is also extremely proud of her Guatemalan heritage, and helped her father start a small company, J&M Landscaping, which works to help Latino immigrants by hiring them to provide clients with landscaping services. She feels that philanthropy is not only a characteristic for her but also a defining trait, an identity that she will apply to her future career. She already embodies this, as President of her school’s National Honor Society and Business Professionals of America, along with Treasurer of her Student Council. Academically gifted with a 3.85 GPA, she plans to continue her exciting journey by studying Software Engineering at University of Michigan Ann-Arbor, Michigan State University, or the University of Michigan Dearborn.
GPA: 3.85
High School: Advanced Technology Academy
Heritage: Guatemalan
Technology is a fascinating field because it has the ability to intersect with so many causes. For Jaslin Garcia-Morales, that intersection is with the environment and health. Her professional goals are optimistic and exciting: to reduce pollution, poverty, and climate change. Jaslin plans to become a Software Engineer and hopes, in doing so, to be able to solve some of the world’s most complex problems – helping to save lives by creating technological advancements that will improve the way we live. She is already well on her way, having taken Computer Science and IT courses, as well as Engineering throughout high school. Jaslin is also a member of First Robotics, where she serves as one of the team programmers. Already, she has received four IT certifications, which include skills in operating systems and working with Linux, along with configuring, securing, and managing computer software and hardware. She has also participated in the Girls Who Code Summer Program at the University of Michigan, learning and honing her understanding of coding. Jaslin is clearly well on her way to her end goal, and we can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. She is also extremely proud of her Guatemalan heritage, and helped her father start a small company, J&M Landscaping, which works to help Latino immigrants by hiring them to provide clients with landscaping services. She feels that philanthropy is not only a characteristic for her but also a defining trait, an identity that she will apply to her future career. She already embodies this, as President of her school’s National Honor Society and Business Professionals of America, along with Treasurer of her Student Council. Academically gifted with a 3.85 GPA, she plans to continue her exciting journey by studying Software Engineering at University of Michigan Ann-Arbor, Michigan State University, or the University of Michigan Dearborn.
Silver - Sofía Arcos
Major: Computer Science and Business
GPA: 3.70
High School: Riverside Brookfield High School
Heritage: Colombian and Mexican
Sofia Arcos’ love affair with computer science started after learning the basics of Java and seeing her code run through a robot. How could it not? Since then, she has worked hard to accumulate knowledge and understanding of anything and everything tech. Through the Girls Who Code Summer Program, she created a website, an experience which helped her realize the impact she could have on a person’s daily life. With so few women in technology, Sofia’s introduction to Girls Who Code was monumental, and she is well on her way to becoming a role model for future girls interested in STEM. In addition to Girls Who Code, Sofia is also heavily involved with her high school’s robotics team, for which she designed a new website, and coded a desktop and mobile version. A diligent worker committed to academics, she has a variety of skills that will suit her well for a career in technology: namely, collaboration, project management, and a killer attention-to-detail. A natural leader, she plans and runs all the meetings of the Girls Who Code Club at her school and serves as Co-President. An ardent supporter of women in tech, she provides weekly Woman of the Week announcements, highlighting women who are offering groundbreaking work in computer science. With a GPA of 3.70, she is an excellent student, and has been described by her teachers as a model for other students. A well-rounded and beloved part of her high school community, she serves as a member of the National Honor Society, the Madrigals Choir, and the girls’ soccer team. She plans to use all of these skills and experiences to pursue a double major in Computer Science and Business at Michigan Technological University, University of Alabama, or Loyola University.
GPA: 3.70
High School: Riverside Brookfield High School
Heritage: Colombian and Mexican
Sofia Arcos’ love affair with computer science started after learning the basics of Java and seeing her code run through a robot. How could it not? Since then, she has worked hard to accumulate knowledge and understanding of anything and everything tech. Through the Girls Who Code Summer Program, she created a website, an experience which helped her realize the impact she could have on a person’s daily life. With so few women in technology, Sofia’s introduction to Girls Who Code was monumental, and she is well on her way to becoming a role model for future girls interested in STEM. In addition to Girls Who Code, Sofia is also heavily involved with her high school’s robotics team, for which she designed a new website, and coded a desktop and mobile version. A diligent worker committed to academics, she has a variety of skills that will suit her well for a career in technology: namely, collaboration, project management, and a killer attention-to-detail. A natural leader, she plans and runs all the meetings of the Girls Who Code Club at her school and serves as Co-President. An ardent supporter of women in tech, she provides weekly Woman of the Week announcements, highlighting women who are offering groundbreaking work in computer science. With a GPA of 3.70, she is an excellent student, and has been described by her teachers as a model for other students. A well-rounded and beloved part of her high school community, she serves as a member of the National Honor Society, the Madrigals Choir, and the girls’ soccer team. She plans to use all of these skills and experiences to pursue a double major in Computer Science and Business at Michigan Technological University, University of Alabama, or Loyola University.
Bronze - Julio Ramírez
Major: Electrical Engineering or Computer Science
GPA: 3.95
High School: Northside College Preparatory High School
Heritage: Mexican
Julio Ramirez is an exceptionally talented, enthusiastic, and hard-working student, which according to his teachers, is made clear in observing his classwork and interactions with students and teachers. Julio’s passion for technology has long been in the making, with his interest first having been sparked in middle school. From disassembling a desktop computer to learning about the engineering design process with his high school’s robotics team, to learning about the effects of evolving technology on society, he has forged ahead and defined a path for himself. As a research assistant at the University of Chicago Center for Data and Computing, he investigated how people perceive the fairness of machine learning models in the criminal justice system based on variables considered to determine whether someone is likely to commit a crime. This project opened his eyes to the social consequences when we get technology wrong, which is something he hopes to combat in his future career. As the computer-aided design sub-team leader for his school’s robotics team, Julio learned developed skills in resourcefulness and leadership, qualities that will serve him well in his future professional aspirations. He is strongly committed to community service too and hopes through his contributions to technology, that he will be able to contribute to a more just society. With a GPA of 3.95, Julio is exceptionally academically talented. His diligence in his schoolwork is admirable, and coupled with a propensity for mathematics, a dedication to helping others, and a take-charge attitude, he is primed for success. He plans to study Electrical Engineering or Computer Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, or the University of Chicago.
GPA: 3.95
High School: Northside College Preparatory High School
Heritage: Mexican
Julio Ramirez is an exceptionally talented, enthusiastic, and hard-working student, which according to his teachers, is made clear in observing his classwork and interactions with students and teachers. Julio’s passion for technology has long been in the making, with his interest first having been sparked in middle school. From disassembling a desktop computer to learning about the engineering design process with his high school’s robotics team, to learning about the effects of evolving technology on society, he has forged ahead and defined a path for himself. As a research assistant at the University of Chicago Center for Data and Computing, he investigated how people perceive the fairness of machine learning models in the criminal justice system based on variables considered to determine whether someone is likely to commit a crime. This project opened his eyes to the social consequences when we get technology wrong, which is something he hopes to combat in his future career. As the computer-aided design sub-team leader for his school’s robotics team, Julio learned developed skills in resourcefulness and leadership, qualities that will serve him well in his future professional aspirations. He is strongly committed to community service too and hopes through his contributions to technology, that he will be able to contribute to a more just society. With a GPA of 3.95, Julio is exceptionally academically talented. His diligence in his schoolwork is admirable, and coupled with a propensity for mathematics, a dedication to helping others, and a take-charge attitude, he is primed for success. He plans to study Electrical Engineering or Computer Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, or the University of Chicago.
