Fernando Herazo
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2004 Scholarship Winner
Newcomers High School
LaGuardia Community College
"I have known Fernando Herazo for the past two years, and he has exhibited the qualities of an individual willing to strive for the top, no matter how many obstacles are put in his path. Obstacles are only another stepping-stone to reach the top for Fernando. Defeat is not a word found in his vocabulary, but triumphing over the odds is a daily occurrence for this young man. Fernando Herazo is dedicated to his school, friends and family. It is difficult for anyone to arrive in this nation and achieve all that he has done is such a short time. The cultural and language barriers were overcome with tremendous effort and determination. He is a shining example of the community from which he comes, as well as that of his adopted nation. He will be a bridge for both communities in the future to come."
—Ferencz Czapp, Social Studies Teacher
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Tutor, Our Lady of Sorrows
- Peer Educator, Institute for Labor and the Community
- Translator, Elmhurst Hospital
- Tutor, Catholic Charities
Excerpts from Fernando's Essay
This country's kindness and humanity towards newcomers has inspired me to become one who serves it. Hence, it is my obligation to help those who are struggling, but willing to improve their living conditions. This will be a way of rewarding a society that has contributed to my development as a person.
However, life is a path full of stones, and as an immigrant I have experienced how difficult it is to succeed in this society. Unfortunately, many people are victims of exploitation, accidents and bad payments due to their ignorance about the nation's work field. Lack of knowledge is one of the factors that make my community suffer and become victims of many abuses. In order to help my people, I have decided to be a leader by becoming a peer educator and advocate for people's rights. My purpose as a peer educator is to teach immigrant workers their rights at the workplace. This will create consciousness on them about the importance of knowing their rights to be safe at their jobs. As a result, they will know how to avoid maltreatment and abuse.
Community service gave me the satisfaction of helping people. It opened the possibility of bringing positive changes within the society by reducing the level of injustices committed against our immigrant brothers. It also makes me proud of being who I am, knowing that I'm helping others and protecting them under the principles of justice, freedom, respect and sovereignty of this nation.
