As cheers erupt from the crowd, one can only think about how Folklorico was able to present an amazing dance performance yet again. There is only one who we have to thank for, Adhilene Torres, also known as Addie.
Entering San Mateo High School, Addie never knew the impact she would have within four years. Immediately joining La Raza, she climbed the ranks and became a leader. Addie is a frequent and active member of the Bearcat community, like being an ambassador for incoming freshmen, tutoring in the Bearcat den, and being a choreographer for La Raza and Folklorico.
“…I take the lead positions of choreographing the dances that we do as well as coming up with fundraising ideas with other leaders, making sure the club flows smoothly in order to incorporate different identities at our school.” Addie shares, “…We incorporate different types of Hispanic dances and we show those dances through our colorful skirts as well as the different types of movements.”
Addie is a zumba teacher outside of school, so introducing dancing into her school life was a big step for her. “I really love dancing and it’s always been a passion of mine so getting to dance for our school as well as Folklorico is something I’m very proud of.”
Addie’s busy schedule doesn’t affect her ability to dress. Addie walks around school in a simple yet elegant black outfit with her bag on her shoulder. “A typical day for me at SMHS would obviously be going to my classes but throughout those classes I also have to think about our upcoming events for La Raza, Folklorico, ambassadors, tutoring…I also work in the Bearcat Den so after school I make sure to help the students and after I do my things. I also volunteer at the San Mateo Medical Center so after school I have to think about what days I have to go and volunteer.”
Addie came to the U.S in middle school and was immediately placed in her school’s ELD program.”I didn’t get enough support like the students here get, like, having their ELD class and their teachers.” Addie confides, “I had to spend countless hours by myself trying to learn the language. Listening to audios, asking my family members for help, and eventually I got the language.”
Addie got to exceed and pass the Elpac test and entered highschool feeling nervous to be placed in a normal English class. For that reason she took part in tutoring after school and during tutorial for ELD students.
“Adilene is a dedicated scholar and leader. She is constantly demonstrating her passion for learning and nurturing her academic identity.” Ms. Lara, Spanish teacher here at SMHS remarks. “Currently, Adhilene serves as the secretary for Raza Unida. She is an active leader in helping the club plan, organize and carry out school-wide events and fundraisers… I am proud of everything she has accomplished this far.”
“Her motivation and resilience is what I admire the most of Adilene. I am so proud of the scholarships she has been awarded and the schools that have offered her admissions.” Ms. Lara notes.
“Addie is a rockstar of a student. Beyond being hardworking, she is inquisitive and open to feedback. She wants to do well, is not afraid of a challenge; she welcomes guidance and considers the advice shared.” Ms. Malone, Avid teacher here at SMHS remarks.
Addie’s positivity, encouragement of others, and drive to do her best is what Ms. Malone will remember most about Addie.
Addie looks forward to majoring in Nursing and going into the critical care nurse unit in her near future. After which, Addie wants to “…then go into the field of ultrasonography pursuing a bachelor’s degree. I wish to help patients facing difficult circumstances on a daily basis. I hope to do this by shadowing different nurses to learn from their experience.”