Plans After High School: Jonathan plans to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southern California. His goal is to develop assistive technologies for people with special needs or disabilities, a personally significant field. Jonathan aims to improve the lives of family members who will benefit from these technologies.
GPS Focus: GROWTH & SERVICE
What Makes Jonathan #BulldogSTRONG: Mentors play a crucial role in students' personal development and academic success. Jonathan appreciates his mentors, Mr. Flores and Mr. Hopkins, whom he can confide in and seek guidance. Having a positive relationship with his teachers and mentors made a significant impact on his academic success and personal growth. Jonathan comments, "Mr. Flores, whom I often see before school to study with or hold conversations about some of my daily struggles of being a high school senior...cares about each and every one of us...Another of my most influential teachers is Mr. Hopkins, who has been supportive throughout my academic progress." For Jonathan, Golden Valley has played an essential role in shaping who he is and providing him with opportunities to make a difference. Jonathan is a model student involved in various clubs and organizations; he is making a positive impact in the community through his involvement in Students Working Against Tobacco or SWAT and Interact Club. He cherishes these experiences and continues to use the skills and knowledge he gained to service his community. Jonathan comments, "SWAT especially has been an opportunity to partake in more public speaking and create meaningful change here in Kern County through cleanups and presentations about the dangers of flavored tobacco products." His dedication to the service of others helped Jonathan become the proud recipient of the Gates Millennium Scholarship. This highly competitive and prestigious scholarship provides funding for outstanding students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service. The scholarship program receives thousands of applications each year, and only a limited number of scholarships are awarded. Jonathan comments, "My greatest accomplishment is being selected as part of the Gate Scholar Class of 2023, 750 out of roughly 51,000 applicants..."
As part of the SWAT group, Jonathan presented at Standard Middle School on the dangers of flavored tobacco.
What #BulldogSTRONG Means to Jonathan: "Being #BulldogStrong means sacrificing your time for others' needs and putting effort into making each of your experiences count for something greater beyond yourself."
What Teachers and Staff Think of Jonathan:
"I have had the good fortune to teach Jonathan for two years. He is a standout in class, gets along well with others, and has earned the respect and admiration of his teachers. Jonathan is well on his way to becoming whatever he desires. Gracias, Jonathan y buena suerte en todo. ¡El tiempo es fugaz!" Gabriel Flores, AP Spanish Language and Literature Teacher, Golden Valley High School
"Jonathan is such a unique student, and he has more determination and perseverance than any student I’ve taught. But, beyond academics, he has great resilience and belief in himself. He has shown so much growth this year despite having many challenges to overcome. He is a force academically, but, in my opinion, his personal development is what has greatly impressed me. I’m beyond proud of the young man he has become, and I know he will go on to do great things in his future." Madison Bealessio, English Teacher and Yearbook Adviser, Golden Valley High School
"Jonathan Zavala is a one-of-a-kind student. His dedication, diligence, and meticulousness are unrivaled. As a student in AP Language and Composition last year, Jonathan was often the first student to arrive to class, the first person to turn in the assignment, the first person to master the skill. His steadfastness and drive will undoubtedly serve him well as he ventures off to college in the fall. He is a remarkable young man who will accomplish remarkable things in his life." Karen Bastain, AP English Language and Composition Teacher, Golden Valley High School
"Jonathan Zavala is an outstanding example of what it means to be #BulldogSTRONG. In the Classroom, Jonathan is a tenacious, meticulous, and driven student who always gives 100%. Moreover, Jonathan takes tremendous pride in keeping 100% in class, making any corrections necessary, and being ready to learn on a daily basis. In We the People, Jonathan and his unit worked hard to master content regarding the Institutions of our Government and how they have historically impacted our society through their hard work; they placed 2nd at our local competition and had an excellent showing at the State We the People Championships as well. Having Jonathan this year truly has made the classroom a better place, and his unique personality has shined as he has grown a lot this year socially as well." John Hansen, Government/Economics Teacher and We The People Coach, Golden Valley High School
"I am thrilled to shine the spotlight on Jonathan, a remarkable engineering student who has recently been awarded the prestigious GATES Scholarship. JZ has always had a passion for engineering and has consistently demonstrated his exceptional skills and talents throughout his academic journey. He has shown a remarkable ability to solve complex problems and think critically. JZ's recent achievement of being awarded the GATES Scholarship is a testament to his exceptional talent and hard work. This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to only a select few students each year and provides full tuition coverage for undergraduate studies. I am proud to have JZ in my classes; he is a wonderful student." Judiah Hopkins, Project Lead the Way/Engineering Teacher and eSports Coach, Golden Valley High School