By Joan Frances –
A senior at William P. Clements High School, Ross Trivisonno has accomplished much more than most students his age. His commitment to academics is admirable, and his work in the Global Studies Academy (GSA) and in extracurricular activities sets him apart. Ross has spent his high school career devoted to making the world a better place to live.
Ross is the secretary of the GSA student council and a director of competition for Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA). Ross is also a member of the English Honor Society, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society and the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Current Issues and Events team. Since his freshman year, he has been a member of Model United Nations (UN) and has served as a delegate to eight regional and state-wide conferences.
“My philosophy is that you need to work hard, persevere and have goals to be successful in life,” Ross said. “One of the many things that Clements has instilled in me is a powerful sense of hard work and dedication to certain activities that I’m passionate about, whether it be politics, DECA, Model UN, the Global Studies Academy or my coursework.”
Being in the GSA has amplified Ross’ open-mindedness for new ideas, cultures and experiences — another value that he aspires to personify every day. His leadership abilities are inspiring. “Being a leader is more than just a role but an experience for both me and those I represent, since the best way to learn is to teach and guide others. As secretary of the GSA, I have the dream job of serving as both the administrative leader of the council, as well as the editor-in-chief of World News Breakdown, a monthly current events newsletter.”
In addition to his extensive school involvement, Ross is an Eagle Scout and is engaged in political activism. He has volunteered at the Democratic National Convention, served as a staffer to several political campaigns at the presidential and local levels and has worked with the Houston Sierra Club’s Political Action Committee to spread environmental awareness in the political circuit by influencing legislative platforms of local politicians.
Ross’ high school experience has been very gratifying. “I have the pleasure of going to school with some of the best and brightest students in the Houston area, and I have always tried to surround myself with peers who challenge me. As the saying goes, ‘If you are the smartest one in the room, you are in the wrong room.’”
If Ross had to choose one high school teacher who has had the largest impact on his life and future career aspirations, it would have to be his freshman World Geography and Advanced Placement Human Geography teacher Christine Badillo. “Her non-stop positivity and passion for the world around her shines through, and she can truly make any student love geography! Through my participation in Model UN and UIL Current Issues and Events, Mrs. Badillo has been more than just a teacher; she’s been a mentor and inspiration to me and so many other students.”
Ross is unsure where he will attend college next fall, but he would like to double major in political science and business and possibly attend law school in the future. Congratulations on your incredible achievements and commitment to humanity Ross. Good luck as you continue to make the world a better place for everyone.