Numerous high school students face challenges when trying to determine their future path, with many experiencing tough times as a result of peer pressure. It’s really hard for adults that teenagers often exhibit negative behavior such as cursing and engaging in fights. However, it is crucial to recognize that during this stage of their lives, they are striving to explore their identity and establish their position in the world. This can be especially challenging for Staff members who have overcome their own obstacles during their schooling, as they navigate difficult circumstances with students who have less life experience. Achieving success often involves navigating through unexpected challenges and obstacles along the way, making it hard to predict whether or not an individual will succeed.

Example picture of staff interviews.

STAFF INTERVIEW – Cindy Martinez

During my interview with Cindy Martinez, the RHS College & Career Specialist, I had the opportunity to assess her confidence and reactions in various situations, in comparison to the academic experiences and abilities of other students throughout high school. It is a reality that individuals frequently encounter difficult circumstances, as not every experience is filled with positivity. However, life often presents challenges to test our true level of determination for what we claim to desire. Cindy’s performance in her role is outstanding, and she proves to be an invaluable resource for our students at RHS. During her teenage years in high school, she experienced a strong inclination to give up. Throughout her journey, she has encountered numerous challenges and overcome them with her wealth of experiences. With her extensive knowledge and inspiring demeanor, she truly stands out as an exceptional asset to our school community. Here is a summary of the valuable insights she shared during our interview.  

1. What is your most cherished memory from your childhood?

“My most cherished memory from my childhood is my friends. I was always very social and loved making new friends in school. All the birthday parties, hangouts, and sleepovers made growing up so fun.”

2. To what extent did you face challenges during your childhood while you were in high school?

“I struggled with balancing my time. Trying to work, stay involved with school, friends, and at home life at home, always fall on hard times. Prioritizing my time got harder as I got older. But, using a calendar and spending my time on things that truly mattered to me helped a lot.”

3. What is an aspect of yourself that you take pride in?

“I take pride in how I follow through with everything. When I say I am going to do something 99.999% of the time I follow through.” 

4. Were you affected by depression, particularly during your junior and senior years? Did you consider quitting and leaving school when you encountered technical challenges?

“During my senior and junior year of high school I struggled with a lot of anxiety and mild depression and had many challenging circumstances. Of course I considered quitting, but thankfully I asked for help and was able to start therapy. Whenever you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out. There are so many resources that can get you the help you need.”

5. Describe a professional achievement that you take pride in.

“I am a first generation college student so getting my Bachelors degree is one of my biggest accomplishments. It was never easy, but it was so worth it!” 

6. How did you feel as an adult living after you graduated from college? 

“I struggled a little after college graduation. Trying to find a job, and not having the routine of school was a challenge. Once I was able to find a job that was related to my degree field things got easier and I felt more at peace. It has been great ever since!”

7. Can you recount the most arduous experience you have ever had?

“My most challenging experience would be the academic side of high school and college. I have never been naturally good at school, it always takes me extra effort. Learning how to set time for study, and turning in assignments on time was a challenge for me.”

8. What is an aspiration that you hope to fulfill in the future?

“I have so many aspirations I hope to fulfill. The big ones are: I want to own a house, travel Latin America, and get a Masters degree.”

9. Living as a child can be quite frustrating, especially when dealing with the pressures and frustrations of peer pressure. It becomes even more offensive when these challenges are heightened in middle schools, which are often considered the worst. Have you experienced similar difficulties during your childhood?

“Yes, peer pressure was a big thing for me growing up and I think it is something children still struggle with today. We need to encourage students to be confident in themselves and to not be afraid to walk away. Sometimes as kids we do stuff to feel cool when it comes to peer pressure but it is so much cooler when you make your own choices and can walk away when necessary.”

10. What was the happiest time of your life?

“Everyday is the happiest time of my life. Being able to wake up every day and be healthy with my family is happiness for me.”

The key takeaway from this interview is the resilience demonstrated by the individual despite facing challenges in school. She faced challenges with her education due to various circumstances. She was on the verge of surrendering. Despite the difficulties, she remained determined to achieve her goals and understood the importance of education in reaching them. By putting in additional effort, she was able to reap the rewards. This serves as a source of inspiration for students who may be contemplating giving up when faced with academic obstacles. While the investment in education can be demanding and personal circumstances may differ, It is important to consider that individuals, whether they are students or staff members, may face unique challenges that influence their decision to persevere or to give up. Students often pursue their own desires, finding it enjoyable. Teens frequently exhibit offensive behavior and are consistently in a negative mood. Many people across the country are experiencing difficult circumstances, and ultimately, Everyone experiences a turning point in life, where they have the moment to either move forward or to give up. Many individuals across the nation believe that if you surrender, there is absolutely no chance for success. It is unanimously agreed upon by everybody that the only possibility of achieving your goals is to never give up no matter what, regardless of the circumstances. If you are unable to attend, what other options do you have apart from giving up? Having hope is not as simple as it seems, especially when things don’t go as planned and the journey becomes arduous. If a student or staff member is unable to overcome these obstacles, the only viable choice may be to step away.