Hobbies and interests
Soccer
Skateboarding
Graphic Design
Emmanuel Castro
2,065
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FinalistEmmanuel Castro
2,065
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FinalistBio
My name is Emmanuel Castro, but I go by Manny. I am 17 years old and a junior at Rancho Alamitos High School in California. My goal is to attend a four year college straight out of high school, which has been my dream since childhood. Recently, however, my motivation has shifted slightly due to the loss of my older brother who tragically passed in March. Now more than ever before I feel compelled to make him proud and use this tragedy as fuel for success rather than letting it hold me back from achieving great things with my life.
Growing up without much money or resources made attending college seem like an impossible task for many years; however now that I have seen how hard work can pay off through small successes along the way such as earning good grades on tests or getting accepted into competitive programs – it gives me hope that one day soon enough all those dreams will come true if only continue striving forward each day towards them regardless of what challenges may arise along the way. As someone who loves learning new things and pushing myself beyond what’s comfortable — there are few greater rewards than seeing your efforts being rewarded with tangible results like better grades or increased opportunities down the road!
Aside from academics, I enjoy playing soccer, listening to music, and occasionally taking time out to relax by watching movies. Overall though, my focus remains on doing whatever possible so that one day soon enough when graduation rolls around-I can proudly say “Yes! College here we come!”
Education
Rancho Alamitos High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Marketing and Advertising
Dream career goals:
Seasonal sales associate
See’s Candy2022 – 20231 year
Sports
Soccer
Varsity2023 – Present1 year
Public services
Volunteering
Orange County United Way — Student leader2023 – 2023
Future Interests
Advocacy
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
I Can Do Anything Scholarship
I want to be remembered for what I have created for my business and leave my mark on the world.
Heather Payne Memorial Scholarship
The loss of a sibling due to suicide is an incredibly difficult experience, and it can be hard to focus on your education while also dealing with the grief. I know this firsthand; my brother committed suicide 2 months ago, and it is taking me some time before I am able to fully return my focus back onto schoolwork.
I'm taking it day by day and trying to manage all of the emotions that come with such a loss while also keeping up with classes. My family has been incredibly supportive throughout this time, helping me stay focused on what is important despite our grief over losing someone so close to us all at once like we did . Even though there are days where it's hard for me to get out of bed or even find motivation in anything else besides mourning his passing , having their support helps keep me going when times are tough.
I know that no amount of schooling will replace him but staying focused on school gives meaning back into each day instead letting myself be consumed by sadness 24/7. While nothing can bring him back or make things easier during these dark times, channeling energy into something positive like working towards graduation keeps hope alive within myself which is more than enough reason for why i'm still pushing through right now despite everything happening around me.
I found that immersing myself in activities related to school helped me cope with the pain of losing my brother. Studying for classes gave me something positive and productive upon which to channel my energy, as well as providing structure during what feels like an otherwise chaotic period of life. It also provided a sense of accomplishment when things are feeling particularly overwhelming—even small wins were enough for me at times! Additionally, connecting with supportive friends or family members who could provide comfort during moments where grief seemed too much was essential for helping get through each day without being completely overwhelmed by sadness or despair.
My advice would be: take care of yourself first! It's important not only physically but mentally too; don't forget about self-care such as getting enough sleep and eating healthy meals even if you feel like nothing matters anymore because you need strength more than ever right now so that you can persevere through this tough time while still focusing on your education goals despite the tragedy that has occurred in your life recently. Lastly, reach out if needed - talking openly about how one feels after such a loss is vital part healing process, so do not hesitate seek help from professionals or those around you who are willing listen understand what going through.