Lina is a junior at Denver South High School who came to the United States from Algeria with her family just five years ago. An impressive student, Lina balances a very challenging course load with a variety of school activities, as well as working at an urgent care facility. She hopes to go into the medical field one day. We talked with Lina to learn more about her goals for the future and what inspires her.
Why is going to college important to you?
Going to college is important to me because it will help me prepare for my future and what I want to do. I know it’s going to open doors for me, whether it’s meeting new people or studying abroad, I know it’s going to help me to achieve my goals in my future.
How do you feel like Access Opportunity is making a difference in your life and in your family’s life?
Access Opportunity is making a difference in my life by getting me ready for the future. I’m in a lot of programs, but I feel like Access Opportunity is really helpful to me. The workshops give me insight into what to expect and the ACT prep will really help me with getting into college. In addition to that, Access Opportunity helps us get connected to professionals, like at Raise a Class and other events.
Tell us about what activities you’re involved in.
I have a job at an urgent care, shadowing a nurse. I decided to take this job to see if I want to go into the medical field. As of now, I really enjoy it, so I’m planning to go to college pre-med.
I’m also in Student Senate, which is a leadership class at school. We plan events like prom; right now, we’re working on planning a talent show. We also do volunteer projects. I’ve also been involved with the golf team, National Honor Society, and Key Club.
What are some ways you would like to give back to your community someday?
One day, I want to be a mentor for high school students who want to go to college. There are a lot of people helping me right now and I want to do the same in the future, especially for low-income students. I want to help people who are like me and help them get into college.
Who is your biggest role model or inspiration?
My parents are my biggest role models. When we first came to the United States from Algeria, they gave up their jobs and their families and everything, just to come here for us. I really admire that dedication in my parents.
What is something you’re really passionate about?
I’m passionate about helping others. I feel like I’ve been helped a lot and I really admire people who have taken their time to help me, so I want to do the same for others. That’s one reason I’m interested in the medical profession.
Tell us about a defining moment in your life.
A defining moment for me was when I first came to the United States. I was 11 years old and everything was so different. I didn’t know any English when I moved here, but I made a decision to learn the language and get accustomed to the culture.
Tell us something interesting we not know about you?
I really like to clean; that’s my hobby. I also really love K-pop. If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to South Korea. I listen to their music and watch their shows; it’s a really interesting culture to me.
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