La Serna High School senior Jocelyn Jimenez is a born leader with extraordinary academic achievements under her belt, a passion for knowledge and determination to succeed – skills that will help her fulfill her dream of being a lawyer.
Whether she is volunteering as an Explorer for the Whittier Police Department, helping her classmates fulfill their potential as an OASIS-Haven mentor or interning with Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, Jimenez is dedicated to empowering people and communities through service work and education.
Jimenez – who has a 4.3 GPA, has completed several Advanced Placement/Honors courses and is pursuing an associate’s degree at Rio Hondo College – was recognized with an Award of Merit by the Whittier Union Board of Trustees on Jan. 14. There, she shared that she has been awarded a full-ride scholarship to Claremont McKenna College.
“I just want to say that the Lancer community has truly been supportive. I don’t think I could have made it this far without you,” said Jimenez, who will double major in International Relations and Middle Eastern Studies, with a double sequence in Arabic and finance.
“I would like to thank my teachers, counselors, mom and sister for supporting me and shaping me into the person I am today and who I want to be in the future,” she said.
In addition to her various volunteer and academic activities, Jimenez was on the junior varsity tennis team, is president of the National Honor Society and co-founded Delta Nu, a female empowerment club. She also conducted science research through Whittier College’s ARTEMIS program.
“Jocelyn is an exceptionally bright, articulate, analytical and strong young woman who has availed herself to multiple programs and opportunities beginning at a very young age,” Principal Ann Fitzgerald said. “Jocelyn has the courage to seek out what she finds meaningful. She truly embodies Lancer pride.”