Yocelin Avila

Activities/Sports: I have been involved in basketball, track, and volleyball during my high school years.
My favorite part of my high school years has been seeing myself grow, not just in age but academically as well, and being happy to share it with my longtime friends.

The biggest positive influence in my life is my mom. She has always motivated me to do better and pushed me harder because she knows I am capable of more. My mom has impacted my life in many ways, especially during times when I feel like everything is falling apart. She is always there, encouraging me to move forward and become the best version of myself.

My favorite teacher I have had is Mrs. Ramirez. She was there for me when I found out I did not make it into NHS. I was discouraged and mad at myself, but she encouraged me to try again the following year, even though I felt sad and did not want to. She told me, ‘I know you will make it next year.’ Because of her words, I decided to try again and I did make it. Without her encouragement, I might not have tried again. At the ceremony, she smiled and said, ‘I told you you were going to make it.’ Those words may seem simple, but they made a big difference in my life and taught me not to give up. That is why she is my favorite teacher. There are also other amazing teachers I would like to recognize: Mrs. Loftis, Mrs. Tavarez, and Mr. Willmon.

My plans after high school are to attend community college, where I will complete my prerequisites so I can apply to an X-ray program.

Mom: Rosa Leticia Nunez Aguero. Dad: Diego Lopez

Advice to younger students: As a senior, my advice is to not let hard moments quiet you. High school is not always easy, but those experiences help you grow. Just stay true to yourself and do not let fear or others people’s opinions change you.