Michelle’s early years were marked by the loss of her mother and others close to her. When her grandmother was unable to provide a safe or stable environment for Michelle, she was forced to move repeatedly, and is currently living with a friend’s family. She has since channeled her grief into a life full of achievement and possibility. While excelling at her studies, after school sports and student government, Michelle has also attained a black belt in karate. She teaches karate to young children because “respect, discipline and some optimism are key, and I always make sure I embed that in whatever lesson I’m teaching. “ Michelle plans to be the first in her family to attend and graduate from college and hopes to attend UC San Diego.

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