Student Spotlight: Monique 

Fueling Her Passions While Reaching for the Stars – Monique’s Stellar Journey at Colorado Preparatory Academy 

At just 17 years old, Monique has been setting benchmarks at Colorado Preparatory Academy with her remarkable academic prowess and exceptional involvement in extracurricular activities. As a senior poised to graduate with enough college credits equivalent to an associate’s degree thanks to Colorado Preparatory Academy’s concurrent enrollment program, Monique exemplifies what it means to take full advantage of educational opportunities. 

Monique’s leadership skills shine bright as the President of the Future Business Leaders of America club at her school, a role she embraced after a successful stint as the Vice President and a national competition attendee in her very first year. She’s on the track to compete at the state level again, with high hopes of making it to the nationals this year as well. 

Her academic journey is complemented by an impressive array of activities outside the classroom. For five consecutive years, Monique has attended space camp in Huntsville, Alabama, participating in every program offered and advancing to elite, invite-only camps. This exposure has shifted her career focus from civil to aerospace engineering, underscoring her ambition to reach the stars—literally. Last summer, she earned her Pilot’s License through a selective program in collaboration with the University of Tennessee and the Air Force, adding to her heavy machinery license obtained through her family’s development business. 

From an early age, Monique knew her dream was to explore the stars as an astronaut. Even in middle school, she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to this goal, conducting extensive research to understand exactly what it would take to reach the cosmos. With a clear vision in mind, she meticulously crafted a checklist of necessary qualifications and experiences, methodically advancing through each requirement.  

Her pilot’s license and heavy machinery certifications are just initial steps in this journey. Up next on her list is obtaining her diving certification, a crucial skill for astronaut training. Additionally, Monique is already setting her sights beyond undergraduate studies, aiming to complete a master’s degree, which will further solidify her preparedness for a career in aerospace. Her proactive approach and dedication illustrate not just a passion for space exploration, but a strategic mindset geared towards achieving her ultimate ambition. 

At the helm of project management within her family’s business, Monique adeptly balances professional responsibilities with her academic and extracurricular commitments. Her interest in law, sparked by her involvement with a local mock trial team, remains strong; she competed and won the Best Expert Witness award. She has also previously interned in Washington D.C. through a law program with Georgetown University and plans to attend again this summer. 

The flexibility offered by Colorado Preparatory Academy has been crucial for Monique, allowing her to travel, work, and excel academically while managing the dynamic lifestyle that comes with her family’s business projects in remote locations. This adaptability also benefits her younger sisters, who are also enrolled at the Colorado Preparatory Academy. 

Monique’s journey from Los Angeles to Grand Junction, Colorado, marked a new chapter for her family. After moving to Colorado and not being satisfied with the brick-and-mortar school in the area, it was her speed skating coach who introduced the family to Colorado Preparatory Academy, a decision that has evidently shaped her path tremendously. 

In addition to her academic and leadership achievements, Monique is an active participant in sports, including speed skating, volleyball, and softball, and she enjoys law shows, space movies, and building Lego sets in her spare time. 

Monique is a shining example of how dedication, flexibility, and the right educational environment can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Colorado Preparatory Academy is proud to spotlight such a driven and multifaceted student as Monique. 

To learn more about our programs and support for students, visit our website or contact us today.

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