Vinemont senior Shayla Colchado earned her diploma in May and in this interview, she talked about her experience at school and what she’ll miss most about her years as an Eagles. She participated in several clubs during her time at Vinemont and what she gained most from the experience.
“I was in the National Honor Society, the Leo Club, the FCCLA, and I was also the president in SGA. At CATA, I was involved in HOSA, and I was the vice president in Community Service in my shop, which was Health Science. I was also in NTHS at CATA. Being involved in so many activities during high school was honestly one of the best parts of my experience. It helped me grow in ways I never expected. I gained confidence, stepped into leadership roles, and learned how to work with all kinds of people. It definitely got me out of my comfort zone, but in a good way. I had so much fun doing community service and getting to meet amazing people along the way. Looking back, I’m really glad I said yes to those opportunities, because they helped shape who I am today,” Shayla said. “In SGA, I learned important lessons about leadership, communication, and how to work as a team to plan events and make decisions that impact others. It taught me to be more responsible and confident in sharing my ideas. With HOSA, I had the amazing opportunity to attend state competitions all three years, which helped me grow both professionally and personally. Through Health Science, I learned hands-on skills and gained a deeper understanding of the medical field, which confirmed that this is the career path I want to pursue. Overall, these experiences gave me a strong foundation and motivated me even more to continue working hard toward my goals.”
Shayla competed in a special event in Montgomery, and she was around so many amazing people during that experience.
“I had the opportunity to compete in Montgomery, where I placed in the top six in Alabama for Medical Photography. It was a great experience that helped me grow, learn more about my interests, and connect with others who share the same passion,” Colchado said. “For me, the experience was humbling. It’s common to see a wide range of student attitudes: some who are highly motivated and some who are content with doing just the minimum. However, being in Montgomery was a completely different environment. I was surrounded by students who were truly the best of the best-driven individuals who were passionate about their goals and committed to working hard to achieve them. It was inspiring to witness such determination and focus, especially because that level of ambition isn’t something you often see in a typical school setting. In addition to the competitive atmosphere, I also had the opportunity to learn about several healthcare careers that I had previously known very little about. These professions may not be as well-known, but they play vital roles in the medical field and offer rewarding paths for those who pursue them. Overall, the experience opened my eyes to new possibilities and left me feeling both inspired and motivated for the future.”
Colchado felt very blessed to be at Vinemont and will deeply miss being an Eagle in August.
“Vinemont has been a very special place to me. It’s been a part of my life since kindergarten. Growing up in the same school community has given me a strong sense of belonging and connection. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some truly outstanding teachers, who have not only been knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly supportive and encouraging. Their guidance has played a big role in shaping who I am today, both academically and personally. The positive environment at Vinemont has made it feel like more than just a school. It has felt like a second home. I’m truly grateful for the lasting relationships, valuable lessons, and meaningful experiences I’ve had there throughout the years,” She said. “What I will miss the most about Vinemont is the teachers and faculty. They have truly become like a second family to me. Their constant support, encouragement, and care have made a lasting impact on my life, and it’s hard to imagine not seeing them every day. They’ve been there through so many important moments, and their presence has shaped my school experience in the best way possible. Along with them, I’ll also deeply miss all the memories I’ve made at Vinemont over the years. From the classroom, to school events and friendships, every experience has played a role in creating a meaningful and unforgettable journey. Vinemont will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’ll carry those memories with me wherever I go.”
Shayla worked hard to earn her fair share of scholarships, and she feels grateful to have received those opportunities.
“I received a $25,000 scholarship to the University of Alabama, as well as a $32,000 Provost Scholarship from UAB. In addition, I received a $1,000 CTE Student of the Year scholarship from the Cullman Chamber of Commerce, and a $500 Community Service Award scholarship from the Cullman Area Technology Academy. I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities, as they not only help support my educational goals but also serve as encouragement to continue striving for excellence in everything I do,” she said. “I will be attending UAB in August, and I’ll be majoring in Biology with a minor in STEM Education. Visiting UAB was a great experience, and it made me even more excited to become a UAB Blazer. There are so many clubs and organizations that allow students to get involved and feel part of the community. I also saw how supportive the environment is. There are people who truly want you to succeed and are there to help you reach your goals. I’m proud to be joining such a welcoming and motivated campus.”
Shayla shared some advice with the upcoming high schoolers, and setting a good example for the younger kids has always been important to her.
“Branch out and get involved. Don’t be afraid to join clubs that seem fun, even if they’re outside your comfort zone, or to try a class or sport you’re unsure about. You might discover something you truly enjoy. Some of the best high school experiences come from taking those chances, and you don’t want to look back with regrets when it’s too late. I also encourage you to find a true friend: someone who will support you, motivate you, and bring out the best in you. I was fortunate to have a great friend throughout high school, and we helped each other grow and accomplish so much simply by being there for one another. Having that kind of support can make all the difference in your high school journey,” She said. “I’ve always focused on being the best I can be, especially for my parents. They work hard to provide for me, and I’ve always felt that doing well in school is one way I can show them how grateful I am. It’s my way of giving back and honoring their sacrifices. In doing so, I’ve come to realize that setting a good example can have a bigger impact than I expected. I used to be shy and not very involved in sports, but I still found ways to participate and stay active in school life. It means a lot to know that just by trying to do my best for my family above all, I’ve also inspired others who might be in a similar place. Being seen as a role model while simply doing what feels right is something I’m truly proud of.”
God has played a huge role in Shayla’s life, and she shared one of her favorite Bible verses.
“God means a lot to me. Talking to Him has brought me peace during some of my most stressful moments, especially when I’ve faced challenges at school. He has also been the first one I thank when something good happens. I’ve been working on strengthening my faith and learning to appreciate every moment, trusting that He is always by my side. My relationship with God is what keeps me going, even when things get difficult or when I feel like giving up. His presence in my life gives me purpose, motivation, and the strength to keep moving forward, no matter what I’m facing,” she said. “One of my favorite Bible verses is Colossians 3:23-24: ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving’. I love this verse, because I truly relate to it, I’ve always believed in working hard, not for recognition, but out of love for God, for my family, and for others. It reminds me to give my best in everything I do and to do it with a heart full of purpose and gratitude.”
Shayla wants people to remember her for her journey, and the person that she was in and outside of school.
“I want to be remembered for my dedication, determination, and the effort I put into everything I do. My hope is that others can look at my journey and see that hard work truly pays off, especially when you have a clear goal in mind. Whether it’s academic success, personal growth, or pursuing a passion, I believe that if you commit yourself and stay focused, you can achieve more than you ever imagined. I want people to understand that it’s okay to dream big and more importantly, to chase those dreams without fear. Fear and doubt often stop people from reaching their full potential, but I’ve learned that believing in yourself and trusting the process makes all the difference. No goal is too far out of reach when you’re willing to put in the work and stay true to your purpose. I hope my journey encourages others to push past their comfort zones and go after the future they envision for themselves.”
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