From Little Havana to the Ivy League, Emerald Tellez is a Student Working at Greatness
A Dance Troupe with a Purpose
They move in a graceful blur of flowing, colorful skirts. They dance for fun, for their school, and for each other. The Las Paisanas dance troupe, co-founded by Emerald Tellez and her classmate Yaretzy Martinez, showcases the classic folk dancing of Central America. "Dance can also be a performance expression of Hispanic culture," said Yaretzy, a senior at Young Women’s Preparatory Academy.
A Student with a Sense of Purpose
Emerald is not only a talented dancer, but also an exceptional student. She is the president of the senior class, president of the Science Honor Society, president of Model United Nations, and the list goes on. "I honestly feel like it’s my nature to achieve the best version of myself," Emerald said. She is determined to study medicine in college and is well on her way to achieving her goals.
A Leader among Peers
Emerald’s school, Young Women’s Preparatory Academy, has seen her grow from a student to a leader. Her principal, Maribel Rivera, has known Emerald since she was in 6th grade and has seen her blossom into the young woman she is today. "She’s been here since 6th grade and every year we’ve seen her blossom into the young woman that she is today, we’re just so proud of her, I think what keeps her going is the fact that she believes in herself," Rivera said.
A Podcast and a Platform
Emerald co-founded a podcast that focuses on student perspectives at her all-girls school, a place where she’s gone from mentee to mentor. "Yeah, it is truly a full circle moment," Emerald said in reflection. Her classmates, such as Nupia Fernandez, admire her positive attitude and her ability to take on more challenging tasks. "She’s amazing energy to be around, regardless of what we’re doing, she always has a positive attitude and she’s always working toward becoming better and pushing herself to take on more challenging tasks," Nupia said.
A Role Model
Emerald’s friends consider her a role model, and it’s easy to see why. She is going from Little Havana to the Ivy League, having won a Questbridge scholarship to Columbia University. Despite coming from a single-parent, low-income home, Emerald’s success is a testament to her hard work and determination. "It does not feel real yet, honestly, like my mom and I are still in shock," Emerald said.
Conclusion
Emerald Tellez is an inspiration to her peers and a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Her journey from Little Havana to the Ivy League is a testament to her talent, passion, and perseverance.
FAQs
- What is the Las Paisanas dance troupe?
The Las Paisanas dance troupe is a dance troupe co-founded by Emerald Tellez and her classmate Yaretzy Martinez, showcasing the classic folk dancing of Central America. - What are some of Emerald’s achievements?
Emerald is the president of the senior class, president of the Science Honor Society, president of Model United Nations, and has co-founded a podcast that focuses on student perspectives. - How did Emerald win a scholarship to Columbia University?
Emerald won a Questbridge scholarship to Columbia University, which she will attend after graduating from high school. - What is Emerald’s plan for the future?
Emerald plans to study medicine in college and potentially pursue a career in the medical field.
