Throughout my life, the reason I have been able to succeed academically is because of my very own
mentor, a gift from life: my father, Rodolfo Aguilar. Not only is he a great father, but also an amazing
math tutor, life/emotional mentor, and, most importantly, a great supporter. I remember my first math
assignment in kindergarten, which I brought to my dad for help. At the time, I didn’t know that my dad
had special skills and was naturally talented in math, but little did I know. He was able to explain math to
me so clearly, and from that day forward, my love for math was born. The main reason for this was his
passion for math. He teaches with such enthusiasm and always puts himself in my shoes. I can feel that he
truly wants me to learn. Whenever I finally understand a concept, not only do I get excited, but he does,
too. My dad helped me build a strong math foundation, which allowed me to take AP Calculus in high
school and earn a 4.0 in all my calculus classes in college. In addition, my peers would often reach out to
me because they wanted help understanding the concepts. I began tutoring middle school students in
algebra, and as a result, I've been confident in my math skills.

As I've grown up, I've had to make decisions that could significantly impact my future. Facing these
challenges on my own would have been impossible. My dad has been there to guide me through
everything, from the stress of schoolwork to the pressures of sports. I’ve struggled with anxiety,
especially under pressure, to the point where I’d feel nauseous. My dad was always there for me, and his
prayers helped calm my nerves, allowing me to focus again. His prayers gave me strength and motivation
to keep going.I remember one particular time at the national karate championships. After finishing my
routine, the anxiety hit hard. My vision blurred, and I felt like I might pass out. When the judges raised a
flag to indicate the winner, I was so disoriented that I mistakenly stepped back, going to the loser's side.
Everyone was confused, as I had actually won. I went to my dad afterward, overwhelmed with stress, and
I began to cry. He prayed for me, and almost instantly, I calmed down.

Without my dad’s guidance and emotional support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. His influence has
helped me grow spiritually, emotionally, and mentally, giving me the confidence I need to succeed in my
studies and make important life decisions.


Victoria Aguilar Fernandez
Summa Cum laude High School
2nd Dan Black Belt Karate Do
Track & Field / La Cross Varsity Team
Played Division 2 Lacrosse MSU
Junior @ College Oakland University Clinical Diagnostic Studies 
Medical Assistant / Student Assisting on Cancer Research.