An eighth-grader from San Marcos has garnered national attention. Destiny Garcia, a student at Goodnight Middle School, has been awarded the prestigious National Junior Honor Society's Outstanding Achievement Award, as reported by FOX San Antonio. Garcia, who excels in her dedication to scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship, was among 500 students nationally to receive this recognition.
With her new accolade, Garcia has been awarded a $500 college savings plan to help realize her future academic goals. Inspired by her father's career in construction, the aspiring architect aims to be a first-generation high school and college graduate. "My dad is in construction and has always inspired me, my mom too," Garcia told SMCISD. "I decided I wanted to be the first generation to graduate high school and college because my parents didn’t finish school. So, I want to complete their dreams for them. Also, architecture is fascinating as well."
To secure the NJHS award, Garcia had to navigate through a demanding application process, including essay writing, documentation of her service hours, leadership roles, and obtaining recommendation letters. Goodnight Middle School Principal Mr. Marcus Alvarez lauded Garcia's hard work, saying, "I am so happy for her and her family. It shows the hard work and dedication that she puts into our school and into her learning." His feelings suggest Goodnight Middle School not just fosters academic excellence, but also personal initiative and commitment.
Martin Ruiz, who penned a recommendation for Garcia, commented on her work ethic and leadership skills. "She's just very determined. I’m very happy for her. I’m happy that she took the time. It was a lot of effort, there were a lot of components," Ruiz said during a conversation with the local school district. Principal Alvarez also hinted at future successes for Garcia, recalling a conversation with the superintendent where he underscored her achievements, suggesting that this is just the beginning for the ambitious student.
Garcia's message to her peers is simple yet profound, echoing her personal quest for excellence. "I would tell them to try because you never know," Garcia advised. "I would just try. Always try your hardest even when you’re not feeling it." Her advice resonates not just with her fellow students at Goodnight Middle School but also serves as inspiration for youths everywhere aiming to scale new heights in their educational journeys.
