Growing up with a combination of relatives and foster homes, Athena entirely supported herself her senior year of high school by working 40 hours a week at Sonic while living on her own. Athena’s incredibly high standards and determination have driven her to become Valedictorian, Volleyball Captain, and Co-President of MESA. Athena also coordinates the blood drive and leukemia fundraiser at her school. Her teachers explain why she has been the top student of their careers: “an extremely serious and dedicated work ethic, complete accountability and responsibility for all actions, a solid commitment to go beyond classroom lessons to learn more, respect and empathy for all fellow students and…leadership qualities that can only strengthen a community.” Athena’s goal of becoming a doctor is only a pit stop on the way to her dream of treating, even curing, Alzheimer’s disease.
