Carter High School senior Seyry Moreno grew up in a tight-knit household, to say the least. Moreno’s family immigrated from Mexico and lived with a handful of relatives who had also immigrated to the U.S.
“I grew up in a house with about nine to ten people, and it definitely made it harder for me to focus on my studies, because there was always so much going on,” Moreno said. “To escape the commotion, I would usually go in my closet for some peace and quiet and just read.”
It wasn’t until last summer when Seyry and her family were finally able to settle down in a home to call their own.
“It took me awhile to let it sink in,” Seyry said. “It was a whole new experience and somewhat refreshing knowing I didn’t have to hide in a closet anymore to make time for myself.”
Throughout her educational experience, Moreno learned some important life lessons that helped lead her on a path to success. She says that although getting good grades is important, no one should should let the fear of failure intervene.
“I have always pushed myself to the max in order to stay above the game,” she said. “I would stress myself out with school work, house chores and personal responsibilities, but I recently learned to prioritize my wellbeing and ask for help when I need it.”
In the end, Moreno was announced as her class salutatorian, an achievement she never saw coming.
“To be honest, I was in shock and ecstatic to say the least,” Seyry said. “I knew I wasn’t far back in the ranks, but I never expected to be up there.”
As a first-generation college bound student, Moreno plans to attend the University of Texas at Dallas where she will major in visual and performing arts.
“I think younger me would be so proud of who I am today, because I have grown so much, come so far and now I feel like my hard work is finally paying off,” Seyry said.
