Interviews
Homeless teen with ADHD and hearing loss graduates top of her class despite challenges against her
A house fire nearly took everything way from her, including her parents.
Rose Ann Dabu
05.30.23

Life is a journey full of good and bad moments.

Sometimes, we go through devastating things. They can happen to anyone, and it’s a normal part of being human.

However, it’s important to remember that just because we face difficulties doesn’t mean that we are stuck with them forever.

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Pexels - Nathan Cowley

These experiences don’t have to define our whole lives.

We have the power to change our circumstances and create a better future.

Take the story of Jasmine Mazard-Larry as an example.

She is a remarkable 17-year-old high school valedictorian.

She actually made history as she is the very first valedictorian at Dr. Kiran C. Patel High School.

Jasmine’s journey to success

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YouTube - ABC Action News

Just like everyone else, Jasmine has faced difficult circumstances prior to achieving such a significant accomplishment.

Four years ago, tragedy struck Jasmine’s family when a devastating fire ruined their home.

Homelessness became their reality overnight.


YouTube - ABC Action News
Source:
YouTube - ABC Action News

Not to mention that her mother was nine months pregnant at that time.

Her dad was also not in good condition as he was severely injured from the fire.

Their whole family indeed faced immense physical and emotional challenges.

With their lives turned upside down, the journey ahead seemed insurmountable.


YouTube - ABC Action News
Source:
YouTube - ABC Action News

In addition, Jasmine has been diagnosed with ADHD and experiences hearing loss.

Imagine how hard the situation was for such a young girl to bear.

But then, let’s not forget that there is always hope.

Countless hurdles marked Jasmine’s journey through high school.

Facing the everyday struggles of homelessness, she refused to allow her circumstances to dictate her future.


YouTube - ABC Action News
Source:
YouTube - ABC Action News

With an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, Jasmine emerged as a beacon of hope in her school community.

Jasmine’s remarkable dedication bore fruit when she achieved the highest honor a student can attain. She became the first valedictorian of her high school.

Her tireless efforts and exceptional achievements earned her an impressive GPA of 8.07.

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Pexels - Anna Shvets

What’s admirable about her is she didn’t limit herself from learning from her school.

She took the initiative to enroll in Advanced Placement classes.

She also engaged in dual enrollment and actively participated in the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education program.

What motivates this brilliant girl?


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YouTube - ABC Action News

According to her, it’s her little brother.

Her family, especially her mother, also loves her so much.

She has nothing but words of appreciation for Jasmine.

Jasmine is such an inspiration.

Aside from being intelligent, her focus and drive to achieve greater things is commendable.

Her Art teacher, Jackie Flavio, is a witness to how she worked so hard.

While studying, she also participated in numerous extracurricular activities such as the art club, student government association, student council, and speech and debate team.

Her journey reminds us all that our circumstances do not define us.

It is our resilience and determination that shape our destiny.

Additionally, her story serves as a powerful reminder that, regardless of the challenges we face, we have the strength within us to overcome them.

So if you’re going through something difficult right now, don’t fret.

Your current situation won’t be your situation for the rest of your life.


YouTube - ABC Action News
Source:
YouTube - ABC Action News

As the saying goes, “It’s just a bad day, not a bad life,” and this holds true for everyone.

Remember, there is still an opportunity to bring more significance and fulfillment to your life, just like Jasmine and her family did.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

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