Los Fresnos News

LFHS Top 10 Spotlight: Jose Carlos

Parents:Maribel Contreras and Jose Carlos

Siblings:Yadira Guadalupe Carlos (15) and Manuel Carlos (7)

Previously:Las Yescas Elementary, Liberty Memorial Middle School

College: Columbia University, Georgetown University, or the University of Texas at Austin

Major: History

Inspiration for academic success: Seeing my parents overcome all sorts of challenges to guarantee that I have an education is really inspiring and has been the main reason I work so hard academically. I do this for my family, and I want to show my siblings that they can do this as well.

Study habits: 

I used to sleep early every weekday and wake up at around 4:30 a.m. Early morning was when I was most productive, and I would use this time to catch up with my homework or study. I like to plan my activities, but I rarely follow my schedules and heavily procrastinate at times.

Plans after undergraduate degree? Education after my undergraduate degree is not really on my mind yet, but that might change in the future.

Career plans: I am not sure what career I want, but I do know that I want to work in something that has a positive impact on as many people as possible. I want to dedicate my life to improving the lives of others and ensuring that they have a chance at achieving their American Dream.

Advice to younger students to succeed academically: My sophomore year was my peak in high school. I advanced to state for UIL and attended a summer program in Washington, D.C. These experiences, outside of the Valley and Texas, showed me that with enough effort and dedication, I could go anywhere and achieve anything. I advise students to make the most out of their education and work hard for what they want, because it pays off eventually. At the same time, however, be sure to maintain a balance with your personal and social life, because that is also important.