Wednesday, July 3, 2024
PATEROS – Janette Hernandez graduated June 1 and will enter the University of Washington this fall as a nursing major. That’s the short version of what lies ahead for the Pateros Class of 2024 salutatorian. How she made it to the academic pinnacle among her peers is a longer story.
Hernandez is the second youngest of seven siblings and a 12-year Pateros student. All her siblings graduated Pateros and younger brother, Martin, is a sophomore.
“My parents were a big part of my success because they always told me to work hard and give it my all,” said Hernandez. “I’ve always been interested in learning and think it’s a privilege and not just something you are forced to do.”
With older brothers and sisters Hernandez said she had no shortage of examples to watch and emulate.
“I’ve seen my siblings go through school and have their careers,” said Hernandez. “They offer me a lot of advice, which I appreciate.”
Hernandez plans to attend the University of Washington to study nursing Among her scholarships is the Husky Promise that covers full-time tuition. And standard fees.
“My sister has been a nurse for a while,” said Hernandez. “She just received her BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) from Wenatchee Valley College. I wanted to choose a career I would enjoy, not something that I would not dread going to.”
Hernandez said she is also considering additional medical pursuits, perhaps even becoming a surgeon.
Hernandez credits her science teacher, Melanie Williams, with inspiring her career choice.
“I took a human interest class from her last year and she let me grow a passion for it,” Hernandez said. “It really inspired me. I love the way she teaches.”
Along with her academic achievement Hernandez said her best accomplishment involved the other activities she added to her senior year.
“I did four sports this year, basketball, soccer, tennis, and track, I’m still in Running Start and I still managed to be in class,” said Hernandez, “I was part pf ASB and Yearbook, I was very involved this year. It really helped me learn how to balance my schedule and felt very rewarding.”
Hernandez also earned her AA degree from Wenatchee Valley College. In her spare time, she helped with youth soccer.
“I refed games when I could on the weekends and helped them practice,” said Hernandez. “My little brother participated. It was very nice to go out and help because I love the sport.”
Hernandez said she would advise younger students to avoid putting off the work by rewarding yourself after it is done.
“I think procrastination really kills our focus. Prioritize your work, then reward yourself.”
Hernandez said she hopes to return to Pateros and give back.
“I love the community and the families here,” Hernandez said.
Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media
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