Karina Hernandez: Distinguished Student
Madison High School senior,Karina Hernandez, is part of the school’s award winning debate team. She’s learned a lot in debate, like the importance of research, and much more.
“The confidence to sit up there and eloquently present yourself and be as professional as possible and never look defeated – that’s one of the greatest things I’ve learned from debate,” Karina said.
Not only is Karina a successful debater, she’s a successful student – maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
“But there’s more to it than just getting the good grades,” Karina said. “Essentially if you don’t get an A, that’s fine, as long as you’ve learned – that’s the most important thing.”
Karina’s success is especially impressive because she’s a daughter of immigrant parents who came to the United State in search of a better life. Theydidn’t have educational opportunities. Yet Karina attributes much of her success to her parents, along with others.
“The hard working ethic comes from my parents and the different leaders in my own Hispanic community that I’ve seen throughout my life,” Karina said.
This past summer Karina got involved with the Idaho Community Action Network and focused on immigrant rights. It was a life-changing experience.
“It’s made me realize that that’s exactly what I want to be doing – fighting for my people, fighting for people that come from the same situation I have come from,” Karina said.
