Neftali Lopez

My experience as a student at Pacelli Catholic Schools has been great. I have had the support of my family and my school and am pushed to be the best version of myself, both academically and personally. At Pacelli, we are given multiple volunteer opportunities. In my high school career, I have volunteered at the Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast annually, stamped hands at Bruin games, and helped rake leaves with fellow students.

Though it can be difficult at times to balance, I have learned how to discipline myself to achieve my academic goals. I have been a high honor roll student since I was in sixth grade. Now that it’s senior year it finally feels like the late nights and early mornings have paid off. I plan to go to college and major in nursing. I hope this career choice will help me to positively impact the lives of others in the way that so many have impacted mine. I was asked to choose a person who has positively impacted my life, but the choice seems impossible. The teachers and staff at my school pushed me when they knew I could go further. My friends have lifted my spirits when the “after-test panic” has set in.

However, if I had to choose, the people who have impacted me the most, I would choose my parents. They both work tirelessly to ensure that I get to go to a school that has helped me flourish. They have been my role models by being hard workers and good people. They raised me to be the person that I am today. For that, I will be eternally grateful.