Blake, San Miguel Graduate

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
— Eleanor Roosevelt

When I got to San Miguel in sixth grade, I liked it. If I needed help, I didn't have to wait half the class for the teacher to go to everyone else before helping me. I made friends easily.

I didn't know how to read fast or very well. I read like a robot. My teacher said if I read a book every month, my vocabulary would grow. After I started reading like she told me, my vocabulary was much larger.

Last year, I graduated from San Miguel and went to Ascension Academy. The teachers said freshman year was the most important year of high school because I was making my first impression. They encouraged me to start thinking about my college choices and getting scholarships.

Some teachers pulled me aside and told me that I'm doing good. If I can get my grades up above the 'B' honor roll and keep at that level, then I'm for sure going to college.

Mrs. Dager, graduate support coordinator at San Miguel, meets with me every Wednesday at school. She asks me how my week is going. A couple of times I was having a hard time. After I told her about it, she told me to stay in there, don't fall behind. She's there to cheer me on.

I would get through without Mrs. Dager, but when she tells me to get back on track, it helps me out. I like knowing that someone other than my parents and my teachers really cares about me.

I want to be a salesman and I want to live in a warmer climate. Sales seem exciting. I like to talk and I like people. My college choice is important because it will help me achieve my goals.

I need to stay in the books and listen to the advice that teachers and parents give. If I run into an obstacle, I shouldn't quit. I should just get back on it, do my best to get it done, and ask for help if I need it.

When I was going to San Miguel, the adults talked to me like I was one of their own kids. Knowing that they're there for me feels like I can't let them down.

I've been successful because of my teachers at San Miguel. I took from the wisdom that people have given me. I'm proud of myself and what I've accomplished.