The major accomplishments of our schools center on the success of our alumni. We are so proud to highlight the success of one of our graduates, Michelle Ramirez, a member of the Our Lady of Grace class of 2012.

How was your transition from SHNS to Notre Dame High School?
My transition to NDSJ was pretty easy.  Because I had been prepared at OLG workload and schoolwork wise, it was easy to get into the hang of things at Notre Dame.  I really do feel like I was ready after OLG to take on the challenges that would be presented to me in high school.

What were you involved in at NDSJ?
I was an ambassador for the school, and I was also a club leader for Latinas Unida. I was president of the club my senior year.  I also attended two justice immersion trips, one to El Salvador over the summer last year, and the other to East LA earlier in the semester.  I was also in the Track and Field team.

What was your favorite class/book and why?
My favorite classes where AP Psychology and AP Spanish Literature and Composition, because these are two subjects that I am very interested in and the material covered was at all times captivating.  I love Spanish and it being my first language, I was excited to expand my knowledge and learn new things.  Psychology is also a subject that completely blows my mind, as it unravels so much about the human psyche.  Although all my classes were very enjoyable, I have to say these two have been one of my top favorites.

What words of advice you do have for our 8th grade students who are preparing for high school?
Really focus on your school work during your last year, and know that everything that you do at OLG will prepare you for high school.  Continue being driven and passionate about your work, and give it your all no matter how big or how small a task may seem.  Remember that there are people around you that are there to support you, and that you can always come back to SHNS and OLG to get help.

Why did you choose Scripps College for post-secondary study?
I chose Scripps because of the vast amount of resources and opportunities available for students.  I also noticed that a lot of the students were very passionate about social justice, [and] social justice has become a big part of my life.  Classes are rigorous and challenging, and I can’t wait to be there immersing myself in all things that Scripps has to offer me.

What advice do you have for the rising seniors who will be applying to colleges in a few months?
I would suggest that they focus on finding an environment that nourishes and fosters all of their qualities.  To consider all of their options despite prestige or name, and to truly choose a college that will challenge them while at the same time provide them with all the resources and support needed.

What do you plan on studying at Scripps?
I would love to major in psychology and media studies/communications and minor in Chicano Latino Studies.

What would you like to be when you “grow up”?
I would like to be a lawyer.  Although I do not know what sort of lawyer I would like to be, I know that I want to eventually work with those in my community and many others like them.