ACSA region: 13 Some of Angelina Espinosa’s life experiences have created challenges that have been tough to overcome and have tested her motivation to move forward. That includes the death of her mother. Angelina got on the right track when she began attending La Cuesta Continuation High School in Santa Barbara. That is where she found the backing she needed to move forward in her life. What are your hobbies and interests? Growing up I’ve always enjoyed art for as long as I could remember. I recently learned that acrylic paint is my favorite medium. Painting is very calming and meditating, which I enjoy. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are today? After losing someone so significant in my life, it became a realization to me due to my mother’s choices that because I’m still so young I get to choose my path. If I were to continue to act and go the way I did, I wouldn’t get myself anywhere other than digging myself in a hole. What educator helped you along the way and how did they help you? All the teachers were so supportive and caring immediately, specifically my PLT teacher Mr. Mike Mowers. From the beginning of the school year of 2019-2020 he was supportive, encouraging, and he always made sure I had what I needed. What advice would you have for students facing similar situations? Don’t allow the trials and tribulations during this brief time in your life cause you to doubt yourself and question your potential.

What does it mean to win this award? It shows that everything I’ve done to get to this point was worth it, proving that I’m on the right path. The change I made in myself to prove to me that I can accomplish more than I give myself credit for makes this even more rewarding.