21 Jun WESTBROOK ACADEMY VALEDICTORIAN HEADED OFF TO UCLA
Catherine Ramos, recent graduate at Westbrook Academy, was not expecting to be named Valedictorian of her class.
“Coming from a family and a mom who raised me alone and didn’t have much, it feels shocking because no one in my family has ever had a title or anything like that,” said Ramos. “So I feel really proud of myself.”
Ramos has been with Westbrook Academy since 6th grade, the longest standing class in Westbrook’s history. Ramos was set up for success at Westbrook Academy where guidance came in the form of programs, and extracurricular activities, in addition to the exceptional teachers who guided her education. In Ramos’ seven years at Westbrook Academy she became a part of the National Honors Society, Just Keep Living Program, GirlsBuild and was a volunteer at Westbrook’s own food pantry that food and additional resources twice a week to the local community. Ramos also participated in The Intern Project (TIP) program where she worked for a wealth firm as a marketing intern.
Ramos will be a first-generation college student come fall. Ramos was accepted to many exceptional colleges including UC Berkeley, UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine and UCLA –the college of her choice.
“I chose UCLA because I feel the environment there is really welcoming to us freshman or upcoming students, so I really love that,” said Ramos.
(Photos by Ilene Squires Photography)
Dressed in her graduation gown with a bright pink sash that read “Beauty and Brains,” Ramos gave her Valedictorian speech in tears as she said goodbye to her school.
“On behalf of my class, thank you to all of the teachers that have helped us throughout the journey. It wouldn’t be possible without you.”
