Each month, the principals of Live Oak and Sobrato High Schools choose a total of four students (two from each school) to spotlight. Ann Sobrato senior Jennifer Gonzalez, 17, is this week’s Student of the Week.
What inspires you? My family is my biggest inspiration, every day they remind me the value of hard work and humility. They have taught me that life is a tough journey but it becomes harder when we become our own obstacles. They inspire me to never give up on my dreams, because they work so hard to provide me with everything I need, and I want to be able to give back to them in the future.
Favorite subject in school: My Civics (Government) class has been one of my favorite classes. It has been a way of being connected to society and the decisions that affect us every day. The government is a way of making changes and progressing as a nation, as a community.
If you had the power to change one thing in the world: If I had the power to change one thing in the world, that would be violence. Day by day we witness inhumane acts that harm our society. As I hear of the acts of violence that have occurred in schools, it shatters my heart, because all of those kids are sons, siblings, and friends that have dreams and a future, and with violence, those dreams are being taken from them and deteriorating our community.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go? If I could go anywhere, I would go to Haiti. After the natural disaster that occurred, the poverty and harsh conditions of that country were exposed. I hope to bring a smile to the faces of many and hopefully adopt a child.
One big challenge in your life right now: As I begin to receive acceptance letters from colleges, I struggle to adapt to the idea that soon I will be leaving home and my family. Leaving my family behind is very tough for me because although I am going after my dreams, not having them with me or not being able to know if something is wrong terrifies me.
What is your dream job? As I plan to be a lawyer, my dream job would be one where I can be the voice of those whose voice isn’t heard. I dream of a future where I can serve on the U.S Supreme Court and serve this county and work for justice.
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what are three things you could not live without? I couldn’t live without my hair mousse, my tooth brush/paste, and my mother- she’ s a good cook.
Favorite book: “A Summer to Die” and the “Twilight” saga
Plans post high school: If all goes well, I hope to attend Santa Clara University, and major in Political Science with a minor in Communications. While there, I hope to be a part of the student government and create unity within that community.
Something that makes you smile: Seeing less fortunate people with a smile on their face as a result of an act that I’ve done for them brings me peace and a great satisfaction. Being able to help others accomplish their goals and being a role model to them to help them find their true self and role in life makes me smile.
