Cesar Santalo
Art has always been a part of my life. My father is an artist and a professor and my mother is a middle school teacher at Conchita. Both of them love art and have taught me how to see things in a positive way.
Conchita was my second home since I was four years old. Art was very much a part of my childhood growing up. I had many wonderful teachers. I was in elementary and senior art advisory with Ms. Estevez and Ms. Marlin. We learned many different techniques and studied different masters. Several of my pieces won awards. I felt very proud to have earned to be a part of the National Junior Art Honor Society when I was in seventh and eighth grades.
In third grade, I was in Mr. Bratcher’s jazz class and Cuban dance.
Sensei Llerena was a wonderful role model and mentor. While in his karate class, I learned discipline, respect, and that nothing was impossible.
When I started at Columbus, I wanted to share the opportunities that I had. I created the Young Explorers of Art, which is an art appreciation club. We visit a number of different exhibitions and art venues throughout Miami. At first, it was only for Columbus, but it has grown to include students from many different schools. I also created the first Art Honor Society for Christopher Columbus High School, and I am the President.
Conchita also helped me learn how to manage my time. In addition to the conservatory, I was very involved in a number of sports at Conchita. I was the MVP of the baseball team and learned to always put forth my best. Coach Francis, Coach Rob, Coach Carlos and Coach Jon always encouraged me and helped me to be mejor, mejor, y mejor.
At Columbus, I participate in several intermural sports. I am on the practice squad for golf and on the Varsity Roller Hockey team. I am involved in various service clubs. I am a member of the Executive Student Activities Committee, a Campus Ministry Leader, Squires, Cangrejos, and President of the Art Club and Honor Society. I am Silver Knight Nominee for Art and working on finalizing a non-profit to bring art supplies for needy children. This year I was also awarded the Mayor of Miami’s Unstoppable Scholar award, which is given to students who achieve academic excellence.
I have received a scholarship to attend Barry University and Stetson. I will be studying Business at FIU and I plan on continuing to be as involved there as I am in my school today and to continue sharing my love for art.
I am grateful to my parents for their love and support. I am thankful for all that Conchita has given me to help me become the man I am. Sensei was right….”Nothing is impossible.”
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