“We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.” This is a quote that inspires Emely Andrea Catalan, daughter of Cesar Aguirre Chavez and Patricia Catalan, to become a better person everyday. Throughout high school, Emely has been known for her ability to speak up and care for others. She has participated in both KAY club and volleyball throughout high school. In her free time, Emely can typically be found working as a CNA at Cambridge Place in Marysville. “I am different from others because I was never super involved with clubs and sports in school, but that is because I love to work. Investing in my job as a CNA has taught me so many things about myself and others, and ultimately put me on the path that is leading to my future.”
Emely has always been a very open person, which she attributes to her upbringing. “I am fluent in both English and Spanish. Growing up bilingual was sometimes difficult, because I would often blurt things out in Spanish, and even forgot the English words for certain objects. Language tests have always been kind of difficult for me in school, because my brain flips back and forth between the two so often. However, being fluent in both Spanish and English is one of my favorite things about myself. I love to help translate for people who speak only Spanish.” Emely’s natural ability to help others is evident in her dreams for the future. Next year, she plans to attend Fort Hays State University to study Nursing, and eventually work as an OB-GYN.
When she leaves Valley Heights, Emely hopes to be remembered for her work ethic and determination. It is no small feat that Emely earned her CNA License, CMA Licence, and maintained passing grades in all her classes over the last four years. “Mrs. Joseph, my biggest role model through high school, taught me that I could do everything I want to do if I set my mind to it and never give up.” There is no doubt that Emely has taken these words to heart, and will continue to achieve all the goals she sets for herself in the future.