When asked, ‘What is your favorite academic subject?’ people often respond with ‘math, science, reading, history,’ but not Ashley. Ashley’s favorite subject is painting. For her, painting is more than just painting; it’s a way to express her feelings.

“I like to do many things; I am very talented, but I love to paint. Painting just lets me express myself beyond anything,” Gonzalez said.

As a young academic student, Ashley must learn to balance her hobbies and passions with schoolwork. But how does she do it?

“I have a lot going on school, sports, and church. I know it might not look like a lot, but I rarely have time for myself (like hobbies). However, I control my schedule and make time for homework and other activities.”

However, it’s not solely about homework; it’s also about setting and achieving goals.

“My main goals here in high school are to participate in many extracurricular activities and to make my parents proud.”

With these goals come challenges, and Ashley is prepared to overcome them. Here’s how.

“One of the most challenging moments that I had to go through during high school was not having doubt. So yeah, having to give myself positive comments so that I could realize that I am capable of doing things was one of my hardest challenges.”

Naturally, school and schoolwork can become boring, but Ashley has a unique strategy for staying motivated and focused on her academic studies, which sets her apart from others.

“God motivates me to keep going. He is like my strength, and I know that relying on him will make me feel so much better whenever I have doubts. “

As a junior, Ashley’s horizon is brimming with exciting opportunities and new adventures waiting to be embraced. Here’s a glimpse into the swarm of avenues she eagerly anticipates exploring.

“I want to influence those who believe they cannot reach their goals. I want to be a cop (SWAT), and I know that I’ll have to go through a lot with that. I’m a great student with okay grades, but I know I will be a significant influence and motivation to those who don’t believe in themselves and make them think that anyone can reach their goals, even if no one believes in them. “

Yanet, a junior at Jimmy Carter ECHS, enjoys writing for RGN and is active in a variety of groups and after-school activities. Yanet takes comfort in picking up new languages and binge-watching TV shows and movies.