Growing up, Jazmine T. found inspiration in the pages of fantasy and adventure books, immersing herself in the characters’ quests.
Now, she’s about to embark on her own exciting journey, with her next chapter taking her from Sunset High School to Barnard College in New York City on a full-ride scholarship.
Raised in Mexico, Jazmine turned to books when she felt alone after moving to Dallas to live with her aunt, away from her parents. Not only did books provide comfort, but they also served as a tool for learning English.
“Books gave me the passion and motivation to stay in Dallas because, through books, I learned about the English language, how to speak it, and how to read it,” said Jazmine.
In addition to her love for reading, she credits her academic achievements to the guidance she received from teachers and the numerous opportunities provided, specifically P-TECH.
“Through P-TECH and my extracurricular activities, I learned interview skills, interned with United to Learn, and competed in the Texas Association of Future Educators competitions at local and state levels,” she said.
Through TAFE, Jazmine wrote and created an interactive pop-up book for children. Written in her native language, “Samuel encuentra las vocales” aims to expose kids to books at an early age.
“I didn’t see a lot of books in households when I was a kid. I also don’t remember a lot of libraries when I lived in Mexico,” she said. “I created the book because I think it’s important to get kids comfortable with reading.”
In addition to serving as president of her school’s TAFE chapter, Jazmine honed her leadership skills through her involvement in over a dozen student organizations, including launching her own K-pop student club.
Though she has many accolades, Jazmine recalls moments of doubt. However, she had support from her Bison community at Sunset, including Maylee Castillo. Castillo, lead college advisor for the Academic Success Program, is one of the many superheroes in Jazmine’s story who championed her success.
“Ms. Castillo pushed me to do a lot of the things I thought I wouldn’t be able to do. She made me believe that it’s okay to dream big,” said Jazmine.
“Jazmine is proof that this program [P-TECH] works,” said Creesha Hardee, Jazmine’s former teacher, and another champion of her story.
Hardee remembers meeting Jazmine during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and watched her blossom as a leader through the program.
“She seamlessly transitioned from virtual to in-person learning, demonstrating her adaptability and readiness for any opportunity or challenge ahead,” Hardee said.
Jazmine aspires to turn her passion for reading into a career as a teacher or child psychiatrist. She also wants to give back to her community by returning to work for Dallas ISD in the future.
As Jazmine turns the page to the next chapter of her story, she carries with her the lessons and stories that have shaped her, anticipating the greatest chapter yet on the journey ahead.
