ARIEL ARMAS…has a story to share!

By Jay Hoberecht

Where to start?  Ariel Armas, a 17-year-old senior, has a compelling story to share about how he will attend Georgetown University in the fall.  We will start at the beginning of his journey.

Ariel, his sister, Mom and Dad and his family lived in Guadalajara, Mexico.  When he was seven years old, he and his sister saw a savage murder in their neighborhood. Ariel’s family realized they were not safe around organized crime, cartels and poverty.  The family decided to risk all and immigrate to the United States. 

That was in 2016 when Ariel was in the fifth grade.  He did not know English so it was hard to communicate.  He remembers he could talk with one girl in his class.  He worked hard and finally learned English in the seventh grade at Waller Middle School.

Ariel soon realized the value of getting involved in different activities in high school.  He is involved in Tango Flight, an aviation program where the students build an airplane.  He is on the Principal’s Advisory Committee, EHS Buddies (mentoring), Student Council, National Honor Society, English Language Learners (translate for students and parents), PEER mentor, Hispanic/Latino Club and gives high school tours.  Plus, Ariel had the opportunity to page with both the Oklahoma Senate and House of Representatives this year.

Ariel wants to attend Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.  He wants to major in international relations, go to law school and become an immigration attorney.  Ariel has spent a tremendous amount of time trying to get into College.  He took the ACT the first time and earned a 19.  After looking at videos and reading more, he was able to earn a 31.  Then, he began to search financial aid and colleges that had financial aid programs.  He has been accepted at Georgetown University and will visit the school in late April.

As we talked, Ariel shared a story about going on stage at EHS to defy his fright of public speaking.  He was thankful for that opportunity and it has helped him take advantage of other opportunities during his senior year.

Ariel Armas is planning his own journey.  He has come so far but when you talk with him you realize he has a wonderful future ahead of him.  Let’s keep track of this young man!