Scholar Spotlight: Going Above and Beyond: Guillermo’s Journey

Hudson Global Scholar: Guillermo Oropezo Diaz
Hudson Global Scholars program: Providence Country Day Global Campus U.S. Dual Diploma
Home: Mexico

Have you ever had to make a decision that had the potential to open big opportunities? Sometimes that decision might come with a risk or a sacrifice, but the reward is enormously beneficial and worth the accompanying stress. Often the best opportunities come with a certain level of apprehension, but also the biggest reward. My story is just one small example meant to inspire and motivate students—whether they choose to follow a path similar to mine—or aspire to follow a different dream.

With countless students around the world, standing out from the crowd can be difficult. Many students follow a predictable path—finishing school, attending college, and settling into adult life. However, Guillermo is not your typical high school student. While most of his peers in Mexico are following the familiar route to university, Guillermo has chosen a different path—one that challenges him to go beyond what many of his classmates are aiming to achieve. With a clear vision of his future, Guillermo is driven to excel, and through his enrollment in the U.S. Dual Diploma program, his academic journey has become a testament to leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

A Vision Beyond the Norm

Guillermo’s journey took off as early as his freshman year when he considered transferring to a school in Mexico that offered Advanced Placement® (AP®) programs, which were not available at his current school. However, rather than simply changing schools, Guillermo took matters into his own hands by approaching the Academic Director. The result of this conversation was an opportunity for Guillermo to become a Hudson Global scholar and enroll in the U.S. Dual Diploma program, putting AP® courses within his reach and setting the stage for others to follow.

For Guillermo, AP® courses were more than just a way to challenge himself academically—they were a key step in his goal of distinguishing himself from his peers. Instead of attending university in Mexico like most of his friends, Guillermo has set his sights on top-tier schools in the United States. The U.S. Dual Diploma Program and AP® courses have become a crucial part of his journey toward achieving this goal. As Guillermo explains, “It was a way for me to go above and beyond what I was expected to do. Not only would it help me become a better student, but it would also improve my chances of getting into a better university.”

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Peers

Guillermo’s natural leadership qualities are clear as he pursues his academic goals. As the first student in his school to take an AP® course, he set a precedent for others to follow. Last year, he took AP® Computer Science, AP® English, and Digital Media, and this year, he continues his academic journey with AP® Statistics, AP® Biology, and Honors English. But his influence doesn’t stop there.

“Last year, I was the only student to take an AP®,” he recalls. “I was the first student in the history of my school to ever take an AP®. This year, I convinced four other students to join me in AP® Statistics, and now we’re all doing it together.”

As he leads by example, encouraging others to follow suit, Guillermo has created a ripple effect in his school. His initiative has sparked interest in AP® courses among his classmates, encouraging them to go beyond the basic curriculum and aim for academic excellence. Guillermo’s ability to inspire and motivate others speaks to his leadership skills, which will undoubtedly serve him well in the future.
Guillermo is also a Student Ambassador, a role that has taught him about leadership. He says about the responsibility, “it’s definitely giving me more discipline and organizing myself and attending and being creative in these new things.”

A Clear Path to the Future

Guillermo’s drive for academic excellence is deeply rooted in his long-term goals. He has always known that he wanted to pursue higher education in the United States. “My father went to MIT, so he really put the idea in my head to pursue a higher education,” Guillermo shares. He was inspired by his father early on to aim for the best. “All my life, I’ve known that I wanted to go further.”

The decision to pursue a dual diploma through the Hudson Global Scholars program has been pivotal for Guillermo. He’s been able to take courses that align with his career interests. These courses have not only deepened his knowledge but have also solidified his decision to study computer science in the future. The university advising offered through the Hudson Global scholars program has supported Guillermo in choosing classes and encouraging him to pursue his goals and “go for it.”

Guillermo is also thinking about his future as an entrepreneur. “I see myself with my own business,” he reveals. “I want to gain work experience first, but eventually, I want to start my own company.”

Balancing Academics and Athletics

While Guillermo is dedicated to his academic pursuits, he also places a high value on athletics and personal development. His father, an Ironman competitor, instilled in him the importance of pushing his limits and giving 110% in everything he does. This mindset has influenced Guillermo’s approach to both academics and sports as he has grown up. “I’m really big into sports. I swim, run, and even do martial arts with friends,” he says. “I’m training for a half marathon in either Vegas or Toronto.”

Guillermo’s commitment to sports and fitness not only shows his determination but also reflects his belief in a well-rounded life. Just as he strives for excellence in his academic work, he applies the same level of discipline and dedication to his physical fitness. It’s clear that Guillermo understands the importance of balance and discipline, both in the classroom and outside of it.

Advice for Fellow Students

Guillermo’s story is one of courage, ambition, and determination, qualities of a natural leader. He encourages other students to follow their passions, even if it means stepping out of their comfort zones. “Don’t just accept going to an average university just because everyone else is doing it,” he advises. “You have to go for the best, unlock your full potential, and push yourself beyond what is expected.”
His advice is rooted in his own experiences and the challenges he has faced along the way. Guillermo has never been afraid to take risks and go after what he wants. His ability to take initiative, set ambitious goals, and inspire others is what sets him apart.

A Future Filled with Possibilities

As Guillermo looks to the future, he’s excited for the opportunities ahead. He plans to apply to universities in the United States with the hopes of further developing his skills in computer science or mechanical engineering. “I want to study computer science, and I’m thinking of starting my own business eventually,” he says. “But more than anything, I see myself with a big family and achieving my dreams.”

Guillermo’s story is one of big goals, the practical determination to pursue those goals,and standing out among his peers. Through his clear vision for the future, dedication to his tasks, and leadership abilities, he has carved out a path that will lead him to success, both in his academics and his future career. Whether in the classroom, on the track, or in the world of business, Guillermo is ready to make his mark on the world.