Ava Marie Yanez , a June graduate of Design Science Middle College High School , was awarded a $ 4,500 FUSD Scholarship , thanks to the generosity of donors to the scholarship fund . Her story is one of remarkable resilience and determination , serving as an inspiration to us all .

Growing up in Selma , Ava ' s life was relatively carefree . However , her world turned upside down when her mother was diagnosed with cancer in 2022 . Overnight , Ava ' s focus shifted from her personal ambitions to the well-being of her family .

" Knowing life once as it was , unicorns and rainbows , are things I wish I had appreciated and valued . My life before my mom ' s cancer diagnosis was all about me , what I had going on in my personal life , and what I wanted to do . Now , I recognize not only have my priorities changed , but so has my outlook ," Ava said .

Juggling school , work and family responsibilities , Ava faced numerous challenges , often choosing between social activities and family duties .

In addition to her mother ’ s battle with cancer , Ava was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis . Despite these hardships , she adapted to her new reality with grace and strength . She was tested by her experiences , but the challenges also strengthened her resolve . Determined to succeed academically , Ava chose to attend Design Science Middle College High School , commuting 30 minutes each way . This decision , though challenging , proved to be the best for her growth .

Ava ' s academic achievements were impressive . She graduated with not only her high school diploma but an associate of arts degree in math . As the first in her family to earn a college degree , she is a trailblazer for her Latinx community .

" Being a first-generation college student motivates me to make a change for my Latinx family . Living paycheck to paycheck is something I do not want for myself ," she said .

Encouraged by her counselor , Ava applied for the FUSD Scholarship . She was also motivated by her mother ' s desire that she get a good education and be happy .

Ava is using the scholarship to pursue a bachelor ' s degree at the University of Southern California , aspiring to become an anesthesiologist .

The FUSD Scholarship is helping with tuition and easing some of Ava ’ s stress about paying for college .

To the donors , Ava expresses her deepest gratitude : " Thank you from the bottom of my heart . This scholarship truly means more than words can express and will dramatically help me in the next chapter of my life . It will ease the financial hardships that come with pursuing higher education as a first-generation college student ."

Ava Marie Yanez ' s story is a testament to resilience , the importance of family and community support . As she embarks on the next chapter of her journey , we are proud to have been a part of her success and look forward to seeing all she will achieve .

The Foundation for Fresno Unified Students thanks Fresno Unified staff and the community for their continued support and for making a difference in the lives of students like Ava . Together , we can help more students reach their peak potential .

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