Hollister - Energetic and smiling, 18-year-old Dominique Flores is the epitome of a well-rounded student.
During her four years at San Benito High School, the recent graduate ran varsity track, excelled in her advanced placement classes, took dance classes, competed in fashion design shows with 4-H and volunteered with various clubs.
But rather than participate in all these activities to boost her college application, Flores was drawn to the programs as a way to stay involved and engaged during high school.
"The best thing about San Benito High School is that there is so much stuff to do. We have so many programs and activities and athletics that smaller schools don't offer," Flores said.
This involvement is one of the reasons Flores had such a successful high school experience and drew the attention of many of the teachers and staff at San Benito High School.
Lori Cattrell, who worked with Flores on the Interact Club, which focused on community service, said she stood out as leader among her fellow students.
"She's very well respected by her peers and well liked by everybody - she's not the type to stick with one crowd," Cattrell said.
Next year, Flores plans to attend California State University, Fresno. There, she'll study liberal arts and hopes to one day become a high school counselor.
"I want to stay in the school system because I want to be around people and kids," Flores said.
Although Flores now speaks effusively about her high school experience, she initially was overwhelmed by the school's size.
Flores came to San Benito High School after attending Sacred Heart School. She said that at first, the high school's massive student body intimidated her, but she quickly grew to love the options that came with its size.
"You get to be whoever you want to be because there are a lot of things you can do," Flores said.
Flores said she liked the fact that the high school has options, even for students who might not excel academically.
"Success is defined in different ways. It's important to try, but you don't have to get straight As. You should just do the things you want in high school because that's when you're going to grow the most," she said. "(High School) can be stressful, but you should have fun, too."
Alice Joy Alice Joy covers education for the Free Lance. She can be reached at ajoy@freelancenews.com or 831-637-5566 ext. 336.
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