Nathan Vazquez, a freshman here at Mt. SAC Early College Academy (MECA), is beginning his high school journey with a positive mindset and a strong goal for the future. Vazquez came from Hollencrest Middle School, he chose to come to MECA because his sister, Desiree Vazquez, is a junior here at MECA. He also came here because of the academic opportunities it offers and the advantage it has for students to take college classes during high school.
Desiree Vazquez told her brother about the dual enrollment program MECA offers. He explained that one of the biggest reasons he decided to attend here was because MECA “helps with college a lot” and can support students in building strong and good records for colleges. For Vazquez, MECA stood out as a school that offers more than a traditional high school experience.
One of the things Vazquez likes the most about MECA is its environment.
“It’s quiet and peaceful,” he said, adding that it also feels fun and welcoming. Compared to his middle school, Vazquez feels like MECA provided more opportunities for students to grow and succeed in school.
Outside of school, Vazquez enjoys spending his time doing schoolwork and playing basketball. He normally plays during lunch with other MECA students. It is one of his favorite activities and a way for him to stay active. He also enjoys hanging out with friends in his free time.
Academically, Vazquez shared that his favorite class is math with Crystal Guevara. He said he enjoys it because he’s doing well in that class. In addition to his regular classes, Vazquez is taking college classes as his elective courses, NF 10 and STUDY 100. He said that he is handling his workload well and feels “excited about taking more college courses in the future.”
Looking ahead, Vazquez has clear goals after high school. He hopes to attend a university and pursue a career in dentistry. While he is still searching and exploring different colleges, he shared that his interest in becoming a dentist is “My dad’s friend is a dentist, and it made me interested in that field.”
Vazquez also shared that his parents inspire him a lot, both in life and in school. “They want me to do great things, and they pushed me to the limits that I can exceed in school,” said Vazquez.
With his determined attitude, strong support system, and future career goals, Nathan Vazquez is setting himself up for a successful high school experience at MECA and beyond.
