Isabelle Weinstein is co-salutatorian of the Rio Rancho Cyber Academy Class of 2022.

Isabelle Weinstein
Courtesy photo

Here, she shares her advice and plans for the future.

Q: What’s next for you?
A: I plan to join my parents on our sailboat for a gap year while we travel around the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Then I will pursue a career in medical sciences at a university that is yet to be determined.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: I hope that I am happy and fulfilled in my future career. I hope that I am challenged and am able to make a difference in the world.

Q: What has remained the best incentive/program to keep you interested in school and graduating?
A: I want to make myself proud. I am a pretty big perfectionist and can be very hard on myself for any mistakes. In that way I am very fortunate that my parents don’t pressure me and instead remind me that I don’t have to be perfect and that they love me no matter what.

Q: In what class did you learn the most, as you envision your career?
A: The class that I learned the most in was AP Human Geography with Mr. Tom Gutierrez; I was exposed to parts of the world and concepts that I was unfamiliar with. It also taught me to be resourceful and self-reliant. However, in relation to my vision about my future career, AP Biology and Chemistry with the wonderful Ms. Harpreet Bhullar solidified my love of science.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
A: My mother taught me to stand up for myself and what I believe in, and to learn from past mistakes. Even past hurts are a gift from God when you are able to grow and better yourself through them.

Q: What’s your best advice for underclassmen?
A: While it is difficult to not stress about grades and test scores, at the end of day it is the memories that you make with your teachers and friends that you will remember the most. Don’t let other people decide your future for you.

Q: If you could make one change in Rio Rancho Public Schools, what would it be?
A: I believe that if a student is interested in something, they will seek education and knowledge. If I could make one change in Rio Rancho schools I would put more priority on creativity and allowing students to explore what they are truly interested in and passionate about.

Q: Who or what played the biggest role in your success?
A: I have been lucky enough to have an amazing support group — my parents, my brother, my cat, my friends and my great teachers — have helped me to overcome challenges when I felt like giving up.