Hello, my name is Mia Altermatt, and I am a 17-year-old senior at Lindsay High School. My story begins with my family, whose sacrifices and values have shaped every part of who I am.
My father, Mark Altermatt, is the son of a pastor and was born and raised in Lindsay. My mother, Silvia Rangel, immigrated from Michoacán, Mexico. She comes from a large family whose hard work laid the foundation for my future. My grandparents, uncles, and aunts have had a great impact on my success. Without them, and my parents, I would be nowhere. Growing up between two cultures taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of never letting an opportunity pass without giving my best effort.
I come from a family of six with three sisters, Cala, Cameron, and Emma. My parents raised me to work hard and stay driven. I have always wanted to show them that every sacrifice they made was worth it. My mother is the most selfless and hardworking person I know, and my father is naturally intelligent and gifted. I see both of them in who I am becoming, and I am proud of the values they have given me.
Education has always been extremely important to me because my parents did not have the same opportunities I do today. Becoming a first-generation college student is one of my biggest goals. I began my educational journey at Jefferson Elementary School, where I joined Team Empower and Builders Club, which sparked my love for leadership and learning.
At Lindsay High School, I have challenged myself academically while staying involved in programs such as California Scholarship Federation (CSF), Rural Education for Americans Project (REAP), Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Cardinal Early College Academy (CECA), National Spanish Honor Society, HOSA (Future Health Professionals of America – where I serve as Vice President), Interact Club, and the Nursing Assistant Training Program. Through these opportunities, I have completed more than 10 college courses, earned a 4.16 GPA, and ranked in the top 10 of my class.
Some of the most meaningful experiences of my high school career have come from the Biomedical Pathway, HOSA, and the Nursing Assistant Program. These programs showed me that healthcare is not just a career, but a way to serve others. I have also gained hands-on experience through internships and volunteer work at Kaweah Health, Sierra View Medical Center, and Lindsay Gardens Nursing Home.
After high school, I plan to attend a four-year university and become a first-generation college student while continuing to serve my community through a healthcare career. I am proud to represent Lindsay and honored to be part of the Orange Blossom Festival. I hope my story inspires others to believe in themselves and strive for greatness.