ARCH Scholar Profiles

“The single most important influence on me was the wonderful set of teachers I had at Cesar Chavez High School. Rather than be content with my mediocre work, my teachers saw more in me. These teachers took time out of their day to push me to be more than passive in school and seize every available opportunity; in turn, these opportunities translated into real-world qualities and skills. Involvement in ARCH, honors/AP courses, and extracurricular activities, highlighted my desire to want more and aptitude to go after things. Colleges look for well-rounded students who go beyond merely pressing graphite on paper. I went from being a student who could ace an exam to a student who could communicate with people who are active outside of class, and who could take a fall and get back up. That’s the college game - marketing yourself.

As a result, I had many attractive college offers (for my grades, which is saying something) and decided to attend St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. I’m currently a senior on track to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science. I’m also the President of the Environment, Conservation, and Outreach Club as well as the Lifestyle Editor of the on-campus student news publication: The Rattler Newspaper. Though ARCH was officially created after I graduated, I imagine it’s a program that is in the same avenue as what my teachers at Cesar Chavez did for me, cultivating their students’ success. It’s absolutely something I recommend for future students at Cesar Chavez. If it weren’t for key teachers constantly haranguing (for lack of a better term) me to do better, I might’ve never gone to college.” — Gerardo N

“My goals changed seismically during the span of my high school career. As each month came and went, I would always choose a new career path and change it to something entirely different, such as a playwright to a chiropractor, or a philosophy professor to a lawyer. All this rapid decision making stemmed from being uncertain of what I really wanted to do with my life. At the end of high school, I chose to study to become a pediatrician, as I found out through heavy reflection that I find the most meaningful and joy in helping others with their quality of life. What I believe helped me the most is talking with my teachers. They helped me focus on what I felt was my calling in a profession that really prioritizes another person's wellbeing and stability. I would highly recommend anyone who is interested in bettering themselves because it helps me better myself. When in the college admissions process, it's essential not to stall. It's vital to make sure to have everything done in time. This is the yellow brick road of your college admissions process. I am attending Coe College and I will major in Biology and graduate from the class of 2024.” — Anthony B