Stats: 17, 12th grade at Frisco High School in Frisco, TX
Notable:
- Diploma of completion in AP Spanish 5
- National Art Honor Society
- National Honor Society of Secondary Schools
- Athletic Training
- Danza club
- Computer Science Club(UIL)
- Leo Club
- Wakeland/Frisco High School Fashion Show
- Frisco Family Tutoring Program
Quotable:
“Stand up tall for all to see, and show how successful you can actually be.”
How it Began:
Melissa Montanez plans to be the first in her family to attend college. And she’s well on her way. At Frisco High School, Melissa’s a member of the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, the recipient of the Diploma of completion in AP Spanish 5, and has an acceptance certificate for the Performing Arts Training and Professional Development.
Since moving to the United States, Melissa says her parents “have worked their whole lives and my father works all day in any weather, while my mother keeps all the bills in check, keeps up with all our schedules, and balances her life around her children and our economic struggles.”
Seeing her parents work hard and struggle financially, while somehow managing to “always have a smile” has inspired Melissa to keep going.
What’s Next?
After high school, Melissa wants to study Computer Science or Animation and Special Effects, continuing her interest in modeling.
Parental Guidance:
“There are three things my mother has always told me to achieve in my life and that's self-worth, strength and determination with that I've learned to be a role model, a close friend, and the best I can ever be,” said Melissa.
Parent’s Perspective:
Norma and Javier Montanez admire their daughter’s perseverance. “She has always found a way to get through her obstacles and has always given her all on everything she does in order to succeed,” said Norma.
As parents, Norma and Javier have shown Melissa how to work hard and “keep on going.” They function as her daughter’s support system and the “base of her strength” whenever she is determined to pursue her goals.
Parent to Parent:
“Due to my lack of education I have do not have a career although I have always been fond of learning,” said Norma. Norma’s parents showed her how to be independent, but Norma advises other parents to “care, give recognition, and strength to strive for their dreams.”