Alumni F20

Being this my first and last year in this amazing program, I’ve learned so much about how such small things can have a major impact on what it means to become a leader. Being able to be a part of this program has been such an honor. Not only did I grow as a leader, but I also grew as an individual. Becoming a 20/20 leader has helped me become a better version of myself. Throughout the year I’ve learned new skills and learned how to think on my feet.

Going into this I was a bit nervous because I’d always grown up hiding behind my parents when meeting new people and now I’m able to go up to anyone and have a bit more confidence. I never knew being around such a great community could help me break out of my shell. It has pushed me to expand my network and expand my confidence in communicating with others and I will forever be grateful for this opportunity. I hope the upcoming 20/20 leaders have the same experience or even better as I had. 

 Leaving high school has been really emotional, senior year is surely flying by. I remember when my parents told me to enjoy my childhood because once you start high school your life is going to flash before you know it.  As I grew older I slowly started to realize that it was true, instead of getting ready for high school I’ll be getting ready for the first day of college. It’s so surreal, I can’t believe in a few months I’ll be walking across that stage with my classmates. 

I plan to take these skills I’ve gained in my future career. Growing up I always admired having to go visit the dentist. I loved how every visit they treated me with such happiness and care. As if their job was not an obligation. I soon realized that becoming a dentist will be my future career. I want patients to have a  good experience when visiting the dentist and help patients feel comfortable and confident with their smiles. These skills will help me have great communication between my future coworkers and future patients. 

Listening to my parent’s stories of not having the opportunity to go to college or even finishing high school has really motivated me to work hard and reach my goals. Not only do I want to have a future for myself but also for my family. I want their inner child to feel that happiness and relief as I walk across that stage, as I’m not only representing myself, I’m also representing them. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. I will forever be grateful for how much sacrifice they both put in to make my brother’s life and mine “the American dream”.  I want my hard work and dedication to mean something in the future. I want students, teachers, patients, and others to have a positive reaction when they hear my name.