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Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Language Didn't Hinder Student

By Andrea Schoellkopf
Journal Staff Writer
      Nearly 10 years ago, Juan Soche entered first grade at Griegos Elementary without knowing a bit of English.
       His mother, a secretary in Colombia, had fallen in love with an American tourist, gotten married and moved with Juan to Albuquerque.
       His first-grade year, his teacher knew a little Spanish and was able to help him acclimate to English. A pull-out program for English-language learners reinforced his skills.
       When he got to Valley High School, he competed on the soccer and swim teams. He was in the Math, Engineering Science Achievement (MESA), Science Olympiad and Student Senate.
       Soche, who is graduating from Valley this month, is 10th in his class of nearly 300 students with a guaranteed spot in the University of New Mexico College of Medicine.
       “It's hard; I always work hard,” said Soche, 18, who stuck with an honors calculus class despite fears it could hurt his overall GPA. “My mom always told me to challenge myself.”
       His high school counselor, Bob Armijo, said overcoming his early language barrier is what will help him in the future.
       “Some use it as an excuse,” Armijo said. “Juan used it to better himself. Being bilingual is not a bad thing. “It's an extra feather in his cap.”
       Soche is one of 28 New Mexico students admitted to the select Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico. He's the first Valley student to be accepted into the prestigious medical school program, which guarantees acceptance into UNM's Medical School upon completion of undergraduate requirements. As part of the program, students must commit to pursue their careers in rural or underserved parts of New Mexico.
       Editor's note: We want to recognize teachers, students, parents or others who make a difference in your child's education. Send suggestions to Ellen Marks at emarks@abqjournal.com.>   

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