Ralph graduated from Creighton Preparatory School in Omaha, Neb., where he was a TEAMS Engineering Contest State Champion and National Hispanic Scholar.

 

Through his high school’s Campus Ministry Service Committee, Ralph learned the value of service work. He helped organize blood drives, dinners at the local homeless shelter and a day camp for children with disabilities.

 

“Service work can often be difficult and tiresome,” says Ralph, “but the gratitude of those in need provides a reward that can never be forgotten.”

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Annika graduated from Santa Catalina School in Monterey, Calif., where she was class president and member of the comedy club.

 

Since Annika was in fifth grade, she has volunteered at a local animal hospital, cleaning cages and assisting groomers. She says her experiences at the hospital helped influence her decision to become a small animal veterinarian.

 

“I used to think veterinary medicine was all about animals,” says Annika, “but it is as much about people as human medicine is. Many people consider their pets to be part of their family, and they need to be treated with love and respect.”

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Sean graduated from Alliance High School in Alliance, Neb., where he served as editor of the school newspaper and member of the academic decathlon team.

 

Sean won a gold medal for flash fiction writing at the Chadron State College Scholastic Competition. He was given 90 minutes to write an original short story of 1,000 words or less.

 

“Winning this competition was huge for me,” says Sean. “It was an affirmation that my dreams are possible.”

 

Sean hopes to become a filmmaker.

 

 

 

Adrian graduated from Montgomery High School in Montgomery, Texas, where he was a member of National Honor Society. He is also active with his church.

 

As a member of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica at his school, Adrian was able to embrace his Hispanic heritage while helping others – he gave free Spanish tutoring to struggling classmates.

 

“I feel it’s my responsibility to use what I already know to help those that want to know,” he says.

 

 

 

Michael graduated from Norfolk High School in Norfolk, Neb., where he played football and basketball.

 

He plans to become a doctor, and he says it was his family history that influenced this decision.

 

“Having lost all my grandparents to a variety of medical issues – cancer, emphysema, dementia and disseminated intravascular coagulation – I’ve developed a curiosity to learn more about those diseases and to hopefully make a difference in the lives of others,” says Michael.

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Robert graduated from Tempe Preparatory Academy in Tempe, Ariz., where he was a member of 4-H, choir and National Honor Society.

 

During his second year on the varsity baseball team, Robert injured his arm and wasn’t able to play. He decided to help coach his younger brother’s Little League team instead.