A good story: Balanced success in college

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By Silvia Cruz

Earlier last week we received wonderful news from Chicago Loyola University regarding my daughter, Alexis Cortez, Class of 2017 from Aurora Central Catholic High School. Following graduation after applying and getting accepted into seven universities, Alexis decided to stay in the Chicago area and attend Loyola University Chicago and major in political science with the intention to enroll in a challenging three-year B.A. program. Alexis received an academic scholarship from Loyola, which she has continued to earn yearly due to academic excellence. Lexi had the honor to travel with the Loyola Ramblers basketball team her first year and enjoyed the thrill of cheering for her school during March Madness, when the team qualified for both the round of the Sweet Sixteen and Final Four! As a cheerleader and a freshman, she experienced more than she expected her first year!

During her third semester at Loyola, Alexis decided to study abroad in Rome, Italy, where she resided for approximately six months. While in Rome, she enjoyed travel and adventure through Europe. While being a full-time student, member of a sorority, maintaining academic excellence, Lexi somehow managed to juggle three jobs. She has her own apartment near campus in Chicago and is loving life as an adult!

She is a driven, fearless, responsible, young lady with a zest for life and adventure. I believe it takes a village to raise a child. Parents are not the only ones who are deserving of taking credit for their child’s success. I believe her school, employers, teachers, coaches, community leaders, all have contributed to her success and to the success of all of our shining stars.

As a parent, nothing makes me prouder than witnessing my daughter’s achievements and her oh-so bright future. It is why I write, because every community deserves to hear a good story and I want to share this with the world.

Alexis is due to graduate in May and will pursue her J.D, the same as her dad, Rene Cruz.

We are so proud of her!

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