Red Gold News Student Publication

For Brandon Vasquez, a high school student from Mission, Texas, each day is a balancing act between academic rigor and personal passions. Known for his dedication to his studies, Brandon often prioritizes schoolwork above everything else.

“Schoolwork is really important to me. Sometimes, it has to come first,” he shared, reflecting on his commitment to staying focused on his goals.

But there’s more to Brandon than just books and assignments. Behind his studious exterior lies a surprising talent: he’s an accomplished violinist. Few people know that he once competed in UIL for orchestra in eighth grade, a period he fondly remembers.

“Playing the violin has always been a part of me,” he says. “It’s something that lets me express myself in a way that words sometimes can’t.”

Yet, like many students, Brandon has faced challenges in his academic journey. Procrastination was a significant hurdle, one that threatened to throw him off track.

“I used to struggle with putting things off,” he admits. To overcome this, he designed a personal schedule and worked hard to stay disciplined. “Sticking to a plan helped me stay focused and manage my time better.”

As for the future, Brandon envisions a mix of career, education, and exploration. In five years, he hopes to be either continuing his studies, working, or traveling.

“Exploring the world is something I really want to do,” he says, his voice filled with excitement. “I want to see as much as I can while I’m here.”

Brandon lives by a personal motto inspired by a quote from rapper Lil Uzi Vert: “Never ever change, never ever let anyone change you. Always mold yourself into who you want to be and always strive for greatness.”

For Brandon, these words resonate deeply. “I believe that we should shape ourselves based on who we want to be, not on what others think,” he reflects.

With a clear vision for his future and a steadfast dedication to self-improvement, Brandon Vasquez is already paving his path toward the life he aspires to lead.