Student: Amy Mayorga
Year in School: Senior
Plans After High School: Amy is attending the University of California, Berkeley in the fall with intentions of getting a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and then attending graduate school to earn a master's degree in financial engineering. She hopes to become either a marketing manager or corporate financial advisor.
GPS Focus: GROWTH & PRIDE
What Makes Amy #BulldogSTRONG: According to the US News & World Report Best National University Rankings, the University of California, Berkeley is ranked #22 nationally and #2 for public schools in the United States. For many, the thought of attending this prestigious university has been a dream as well as a nightmare because of the low acceptance rates that this nationally ranked university has. For Golden Valley High School Senior Amy Mayorga, she experienced the fear of applying to Berkeley because not only of the prestige of the university, but because she was the first in her family to apply for college. “I have always viewed UC Berkeley as a sort of reach school for me,” comments Amy, “However, it was always something I was working towards.” One of the steps Amy took towards her UC Berkeley journey was being part of the Experience Berkeley program in which mentors at UC Berkeley assisted in meetings and in mentoring potential applicants. “I took advantage of the resources and with every chance that was presented to me, I asked for the help that I needed, whether from my mentor or the staff at Golden Valley,” recollects Amy. Part of the assistance she received included help on her personal insight questions from her mentor, asking questions about financial aid to Golden Valley Guidance Technician Karla Gomez, and being pushed by Golden Valley Community Specialist Robert Castro to never give up. “I felt fully supported by mentors and the staff at GV throughout the process,” humbly states Amy. In mid February, Amy’s dream became reality as she received a letter from UC Berkeley indicating that she was accepted and received a full, four year scholarship to attend. “I was extremely excited,” comments Amy, “I am most excited about being able to experience college at a school like UC Berkeley.”
With the achievement of going to her dream school, Amy never forgets the lessons and experiences she had as a Bulldog as she was pushed and encouraged by her teachers, counselors, and advisors. As a sophomore, Amy considered dropping out of AP European History, but her teacher, Tracy Costa and counselor, Janine Lynch, pushed her to not to quit. As a result of staying in the class, Amy earned an A and learned the value of overcoming obstacles. To her credit, Amy has participated in numerous activities as a student at Golden Valley: Girls Tennis, Interact Club, Honor Society Club, We The People, WASC Committee, JJ’s Legacy, Science, and Medicine Club, Sikh Club. “I think it is important for students to get involved in not only your school, but your community as well,” comments Amy. Academically, Amy has earned a mind boggling 4.50 GPA while enrolled in the most challenging classes Golden Valley has to offer. With her commitment, involvement, and achievement at Golden Valley, Amy remembers the endless support received from staff members. “Everyone does their best in trying to give you the help that you need,” indicates Amy, “I cannot tell you how many times I’ve come to school, or come in during lunch to talk to counselors, teachers, and staff members. Students should not be afraid to ask for help when they need it, there are so many resources at Golden Valley High School.” For her ability to overcome obstacles, give 100% in the classroom or in the activities she participates in, and in achieving her dream of being accepted to UC Berkeley, Amy Mayorga is #BulldogSTRONG.
What #BulldogSTRONG Means to Amy: "Being #BulldongSTRONG to me means never giving up and putting in your best efforts. It also means being a good person inside and outside of the classroom by being respectful, being responsible, and being resilient.”
What Teachers and Staff Think of Amy:
“Amy is self driven and determined, she’s achieved so much in her high school career. She got early admission to UC Berkeley (her dream school) this is an incredible achievement because it’s only been achieved by a handful of students in GHVS history, and she also received a full ride scholarship for the same school. I’m positive she will accomplish great things and will get to wherever she puts her heart into. Amy’s big heart and self determination make her #BulldogSTRONG.” Karla Gomez, Guidance Technician, Golden Valley High School
“As a student, Amy demonstrates a quiet strength and confidence. She is continually showing growth through setting and achieving her goals. Part of her success as a student is due to her ability to be patient and keep trying in the face of setbacks. Overall, she is a great addition to our #BulldogSTRONG community and a model for anyone trying to achieve their dreams.” Lana King, English Department Chair, Golden Valley High School
"“As a freshman, Amy was already following the tenets of #BulldogSTRONG. From day one, Amy showed growth by giving 100% on each and every assignment in GATE English. Amy always showed pride in her work. She would revise her writing until it met not just my standard, but hers. She was quietly tenacious in her pursuit of excellence. Amy was also a “team player” in my class. She collaborated with her classmates, and was willing to help others and, if needed, receive help from others. An admirable example of showing service in the classroom. I have no doubt that Amy will be highly successful in college and beyond, and will show the world what it means to be #BulldogSTRONG.” Jamie Contois, English Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Amy has a smile that can light up a room. She is the epitome of a hard-working, goal-setting student. There are always a few students who a teacher will remember years after they have graduated. Amy is one of those students. She has a good heart and soul.” Tracy Costa, AP European History Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Amy is the epitome of what it means to be #BulldogSTRONG. She takes the most challenging courses and excels in the all coursework. I’ve been fortunate to observe Amy mature from a quiet young lady who stayed behind the scenes , to one who seeks new opportunities to get involved in our Golden Valley community. Amy exhibits the commitment to succeed in high school by going above what is expected by her Advanced Placement and Honors instructors. As her Experience Berkeley program advisor, I discovered that Amy was recognized as an individual who stood out among all applicants for the Fall Semester at U.C. Berkeley. Most notable, Amy was awarded a full-ride, four year scholarship to attend U.C Berkeley.” Robert Castro, Community Specialist, Golden Valley High School