Top achiever Julissa Cedano: I tried not to give up

Julissa Cedano spent a short time telling her success story to BVI News Online before she was light-heartedly whisked away mid-sentence by loved ones who eagerly wanted to celebrate the achievements.

That level of elation was quite understandable considering that Cedano is one of two H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) graduates who earned a perfect Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0.

She described her family and friends as major motivators on her road to success.

The 19-year-old, who studied the Natural Sciences, told BVI News Online that she felt like quitting at times.

She was shouldering four sets of Chemistry courses, four sets of Biology, three sets of Mathematics, three sets of English courses, as well as a Psychology, History and a Spanish courses.

Cedano however noted that her strong support system, and her drive for success, were things that kept her grounded and focused.

“It was rough actually, but I pushed myself. I tried not to give up. Many times I wanted to give up. But, with the help of my parents and my friends – they always encouraged me to push and continue to reach my goals. Yes, I just did it,” Cedano said moments after she collected her Associate’s Degree at the college graduation ceremony yesterday.

Having completed that milestone, Cedano is now ready to start a new chapter of academics at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.

The teen will enter her freshman year at the UK-based institution in September when she will pursue a degree in Human Biology.

“From there, I will be going to medical school to become a paediatrician; I love kids,” Cedano said.