Meet Rachel Garza-Class of 2008 Valedictorian
A True Winner by Choice
by Noe Garcia
April 11, 2008
Ever since I was a child, I have always strived to do my best in all that I do. Whether it is something in or out of school, I always keep my head held high and give it all I’ve got. I believe I can go even further and achieve even my wildest dreams. I try not to let anyone bring me down or make me feel incapable of achieving my goals, no matter how impossible my dreams may seem.
This characteristic of mine, along with the gracious support of my loving family, is what I believe has helped me accomplish many things in my life thus far, especially in my high school career. For starters, I consider being involved in many extra-curricular activities, volunteering regularly, and still being able to maintain an “A” average one of my greatest accomplishments. Some of the extra-curricular activities I partake in are Varsity Volleyball (2005 District 32-AA Newcomer of the Year; 2006 La Villa High School Offensive Player of the Year; 2007 La Villa High School team captain and MVP), Varsity Basketball (2005 District Honorable Mention; 2007 All-District First Team Unanimous Selection), UIL (Editorial Writing – 2005 Regional Qualifier, 2006 Regional Qualifier, 2007 District Champion and Regional Qualifier, 2008 Regional Qualifier; Headline Writing – 2007 District Champion and Regional Qualifier), FCCLA, FCA, Science Club, National Honor Society (2008 President) and Student Council (2006 and 2007 Vice-President, 2008 President). All of these extra-curricular activities have shaped me into the reliable person I am today. I have learned so much about time management and responsibility.
I also somehow find the time to be involved in my church and volunteer regularly. I helped teach elementary kids during the summer (Summer G/T Program) and also helped out with the Summer Bible School for ages 5-14 at my local church. I have also tutored many of my fellow classmates who have yet to pass their TAKS tests. I believe if I help at least one person get through it, I have done my job. In addition, I have been involved in many canned food drives for school and church and Thanksgiving drives throughout the years. I love keeping myself occupied in so many things because it ensures that I keep myself out of trouble and keeps me doing something positive and productive.
My educational goal has remained the same ever since I was a child. I plan to attend a good university, get good grades by working really hard, graduate as soon as I can, and get a good job and start my family. I plan to double major in English and Journalism, with a minor in Sociology. I’ve always loved being able to assist my classmates with anything they need help with. I’ve always been considered “the brain” of my class and always felt it was my duty as a good classmate to help them out when they weren’t quite getting something. Plus, the satisfaction I receive by knowing I helped out a fellow classmate in need makes me feel great! God willing, I plan to continue my education for as long as I am both mentally and financially able to do so.
I feel that I have been so blessed to have achieved so many of my goals thus far and I just cannot wait to see what the future will bring.
