Rosa Linda Hernandez found a balance between social and academic life

BRIDGEPORT – Coming from a large family can have its benefits, especially with the number of mentors available. Class of 2024 Salutatorian Rosa Linda Hernandez found just the one she needed from her six siblings. 

“My older sister, Rebecca, went to college at Eastern Washington University,” said Hernandez. “She is the only one in our family who has been to college and has experience doing that.”

As a first-generation college student Hernandez has mirrored some of the same success and, like her sister, graduated with her Associate of Arts (AA) degree from Wenatchee Valley College. 

Maintaining a top tier GPA (3.7) was all a matter of applying herself to her studies Hernandez said.

“At the end if the day the material is not hard, you just have to dedicate your time to it,” said Hernandez.

She credits her parents as her biggest supporters through school because they have not had the opportunities she has been given.

“They would always have conversations with me about having a high education and especially my dad would always remind me to stay humble,” Hernandez said.

My biggest challenge was balancing my social life and balance my academic life,” said Hernandez. “I’m trying to have a good high school experience while getting good grades.”

Her principal club activity was FFA all four years of high school. She served as AG Chapter secretary and vice president before getting the top job.

“In my senior year I was elected FFA president, and that was a fun thing,” said Hernandez.

She also participated in soccer and track all through high school.

Hernandez said she always wanted to start her own club so in her junior year she partnered with a classmate to create the Deck Out Club to promote school spirit and participation.

“I would like to say we were the marketing and PR team of our school,” said Hernandez. “We put up posters for the holidays to try and get everybody engaged.”

Hernandez also works summers in the Bridgeport grocery store owned by her father and uncle.

Her advice for younger students is to enjoy their high school experience.

“Don’t think you have to figure everything out because that’s the point,” said Hernandez. “You should try to find excitement in not knowing how to do something. Have a strong mindset and follow your gut.”

Hernandez plans to study public relations at WSU this fall and possibly double major in fashion merchandising. She also earned her AA degree from Wenatchee Valley College through Bridgeport’s College in High School program. 

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media