Roots and Wings: A Lifelong Journey

You attended The Village School from preschool all the way through high school, earning you the astute title of “lifer”. What does it mean to you to be a lifer? 

Since my preschool days, being a part of The Village School has been beyond a blessing in my life. Over the years, it has transformed into a place that I consider my second home. I joined at the age of three in Pre-K and being a part of this diverse international community has helped shape my identity and guided my personal growth.

What is your favorite memory at The Village School?

One of my fondest and earliest memories here is from my time in Pre-K. I shared a strong bond with my father and every morning, as he dropped me off, I couldn't help but shed tears for a good 15 minutes. But like clockwork, my saving grace would arrive: Mrs. Reguera, my beloved teacher, would gently guide me to a cozy red rocking chair in her classroom. This heartwarming routine persisted throughout my entire first year at The Village School. Even now, as I stand on the brink of graduation, preparing to embark on the next chapter of my journey, that vivid memory remains etched in my mind. It's a bittersweet blend of emotions, filled with both excitement and apprehension.

How has The Village School set you up to succeed?

The Village School has provided me with countless opportunities that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and explore what I love most. These opportunities have truly set me up for success allowing me to build a network and enhance my communication skills. One aspect of the school community that truly sticks with me is the deep understanding of global cultures. The diversity that thrives here is one of the things that I admire the most about this place. It really is an international school with a local mindset.

The Entrepreneurship Diploma program at The Village School offers students a comprehensive two-year curriculum focused on fostering essential work-readiness skills, hands-on business experience, and mentorship from industry professionals, ultimately equipping them with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. Could you elaborate on how your involvement in the Entrepreneurship Diploma program has contributed to your growth as an aspiring entrepreneur?

These years spent at The Village School have instilled within me the values of hard work and perseverance. Regardless of the obstacles I face, I've learned the importance of staying dedicated. As an entrepreneurship student, I've been fortunate enough to pursue my passions while actively addressing my weaknesses. The Entrepreneurship Diploma program offered at The Village School is tailored to equip aspiring entrepreneurs, like me, with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the business world. Covering a diverse array of subjects such as business planning, marketing, finance, leadership, and innovation, it provides a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship. Opting for this program was a natural choice for me, as it offers a holistic perspective on various aspects of entrepreneurial ventures. I also participated in business pitch competitions. It not only honed my entrepreneurial skills but has also opened doors to valuable networking opportunities. These events have allowed me to connect with inspiring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and like-minded peers who share my enthusiasm for entrepreneurship.

Tell us about the enterprise that was inspired by the Diploma?

It’s called Step in Education. We noticed a common struggle among the school’s diverse student body, particularly international school students facing language barriers when they move to Houston. It was causing some of them to feel isolated. We wanted them to feel included and supported. So, we got to work on finding a solution. We found out after a lot of research that one of the most important ways to learn English is through speaking. We decided to build a program that facilitates conversational classes, pairing those fluent in English with students that are still learning the language. Thus, Step in Education was created. We found each step along the way, made a huge difference. Not only did their English improve, but the international students also gained a great sense of confidence and inclusion.