Union Catholic students Laura Molina, Mielahni Ocasio, and Nevaeh Aaron recently earned awards from the College Board National Recognition Programs for their outstanding academic achievements.
The College Board National Recognition Programs award academic honors to sophomores and juniors who take eligible administrations of AP, PSAT/NMSQT, or PSAT 10 exams, have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and identify as African American or Black, Hispanic or Latino, Indigenous or Native, or attend high school in a rural area or small town.
Molina and Ocasio earned National Hispanic Recognition Awards (NHRA), and Aaron earned a National African American Recognition Award (NAARA).
“I was very surprised that I received this,'' said Molina. "The first emotion I experienced was excitement because I found out it's an important achievement. This means that I've been doing well academically. Sometimes, you tend to doubt yourself, especially when you're in an environment with intelligent peers. Receiving this award gives me more confidence in my academic ability. It also means that I've received a great education, thanks to Union Catholic and my hard-working parents. My teachers and counselor have all been very supportive throughout my academic journey and played a big role into what knowledge I carry myself with today. They've always done/taught things in my best interest, which is really all a student needs to succeed.''
"I was surprised and proud,'' said Ocasio. "I have always strived to put my best into my work. It was very rewarding to have my efforts recognized. Receiving his honor has shown me that hard work can go a long way. Even if you are unsure, it's always worth a shot. By giving me an amazing education, Union Catholic made it possible for me to achieve this award. Among the many other students who applied I was able to stand out because of the support I have received from my teachers, and the knowledge I have gained from my classes.''
“I definitely wasn't expecting this,'' said Aaron. "But I was very excited when I found out. It means a lot to have both my culture and academic achievements recognized through the same award. I am glad Union Catholic has helped me reach those academic achievements and made opportunities like these available to me.''