April 2023 Spotlight: Ignacio Olmos
Ignacio Olmos Soriano, ISPA Class of 2019, Florida International University, December 2022
Degree: Political Science and International Relations
Career Goals: I would love to help my country, Bolivia, in trying to innovate and integrate new legislations that could help other people and allow the nation to become more developed and economically resilient. I also enjoy interviewing people and conducting journalism. So hopefully I can create something from those two passions of mine.
What has been the biggest surprise about the college experience? College was a time when I understood how important time is. During high school, I could still afford to waste various hours of my day doing nothing. However, College gives you no other option than taking advantage of every possible second. Also, the college experience involves more than just college, and you have to put into perspective your priorities and act daily on your goals.
Most challenging coursework in college? The most difficult coursework for me was math. I have always struggled with the subject and during college, I could not do what I once did in high school. However, after several practice attempts, I manage to defeat my biggest adversary and pass the class with a B+.
Accomplishment most proud of? I am proud of the difficult challenges that made me who I am. From being a little 10-year-old Bolivian kid who did not know English, to becoming a ‘speech’ Silver Knight finalist and college graduate at 21. I am proud of my progress. Nevertheless, I am still trying to further my education and become a better person than I was yesterday.
Can you provide any advice for current ISPA students? To enjoy high school, but to also try and figure out what you like. High school is the foundation of everything you are going to do later on in life. So, try to know yourself. However, if things do not go according to plan, there is time to fix it. Anything is possible if you believe in yourself.
Can you tell us how ISPA prepared you for success in college and in life? ISPA has allowed me to be academically prepared for the heavy weight load of having several college assignments due all at once. Since I was academically prepared, I could spend more time dealing with other things. Also, ISPA’s team of teachers are great instructors that have helped me overcome many challenges for which I am very thankful. Ms. Milian, Taracido, and Dr. Blanco are extremely knowledgeable, and their lessons continue to help me to this day.
I paid for college with…Scholarships and by working.
Fondest memory from High School? The people that I met and all the adventures that I was a part of.