Graduation is just around the corner for many Coastal Bend school districts.
And we want to introduce you to a student who is the FIRST to accomplish something huge at West Oso High School.
"I feel I’m setting a standard for the rest of the students behind me" says Alyssa Canales.
Alyssa has indeed set the standard for fellow West Oso Bears.
She’s the FIRST at West Oso to graduate from High School with an associate’s degree.
"I worked non stop for 3 years at this. I’ve taken classes in the fall spring and summer" says Alyssa.
When Alyssa graduates on June 2nd from HIGH SCHOOL, she will also have 65 college credit hours under her belt.
"When I toured the University I’m attending, they told me I’m 50 percent done with my bachelors degree already."
Terry Avery Principal at West Oso High School says "she was a dual credit student who did a lot of her hours while taking High School classes and also during the summer. That lets us know she was a self initiated student."
Alyssa’s mom Jo Anna Canales says "we’re humbled. We feel blessed that she’s as driven as she is."
"She’s always been driven. She declared in 6th grade she was going to valedictorian and she has accomplished that and more" adds Mrs. Canales
Yes. Alyssa is also her schools Valedictorian. Did we mention she was also inducted in to Sigma Alpha Pi. That’s the National Society of Leadership and Success Del Mar College Chapter. She’s also back to back Texas High School Woman’s Power-lifting Association state qualifier and medalist.
As if that wasn’t enough, Alyssa was also head cheerleader.
"She sacrificed a lot. There were two years she did not come on our family vacations because she choose to stay home and study. She had a goal and it took a lot of sacrifice on her part."
"I’m excited. I’m nervous to start this new chapter in my life but overall it brings me great pride that I’m from West Oso High School" says Alyssa.
Juan Canales, Alyssa’s dad says "she set a goal for herself and she went and got it."
Alyssa has already received a full academic scholarship to the University of Texas Rio Grand Valley.
She’ll study Biomedical Science so she can be a Neonatologist.
Way to go Alyssa. We here at KRIS 6 News give you…a thumbs up.
And GO BEARS!
