Student: Paulina Benitez
Year In School: Senior
Plans After High School: Paulina wants to attend a four year university after her time at Coalinga High School. She has aspirations of applying to UC Santa Barbara where her older sister Lillie attends.
Toad PRIDE Focus: Determination and Empathy
What Paulina Does to Show Toad PRIDE: For Senior Paulina Benitez, Coalinga High School is more than just an institution of learning, it is something far greater. “CHS is a legacy,” states Paulina, “It’s a legacy that we are actively participating in everyday we step onto campus and our actions have a lasting impact.” Active participation is exactly what Paulina has done for the past three years as a Horned Toad at CHS. In athletics, Paulina has immersed herself into competition as she ran track for two years, played volleyball for two more, and has been a key cog for the Lady Horned Toads Basketball program for the past three years. Beyond the track and court, Paulina has been an active participant of the Associated Students Body (ASB) serving in various leadership positions throughout her high school career including Sophomore and Junior Class President. She was also selected to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference at Cal Lutheran University where she developed and sharpened her leadership skills. In the classroom, Paulina has excelled academically as a Toad, earning a 3.7 overall GPA over the past three years with aspirations to continue her success in the classroom at a four year university after she graduates, potentially attending the prestigious UC Santa Barbara. Beyond the success in athletics and academics, it has been the memories made with friends, teammates, classmates, and teachers that have left the biggest impact on Paulina while at CHS. “Along this winding path of our high school journey comes amazing memories,” comments Paulina.
Paulina Benitez has been a cog for the Lady Toads Basketball program for the past three years. Known for her grit, hustle, and DETERMINATION.
This year Paulina was elected to serve as ASB President and with that, she hopes that her vision of active participation, belonging, and amazing memories is clear for all students with each activity and event that is planned by her and the others that serve in ASB. “I do hope that every student experiences at some point in their high school journey a sense of belonging at CHS,” states Paulina, “I know sometimes it can feel impossible and that everything just seems to not work in your favor. I want students to know that there is always someone in your corner supporting and cheering you on at CHS.” Paulina is excited to lead and create memories for students at sporting events with supportive signs and a committed student section. She is also excited for rallies, Senior activities, academic celebrations, Homecoming, Prom, and much more, but understands that active participation of the entire student body is important in creating those special high school memories. “My fondest memories here at CHS are when we extend beyond these gates. When we and the community come together and show out!” expresses Paulina, “I am looking forward to what this school year has in store and I am determined to show some of that Toad PRIDE that is the cornerstone of CHS. I hope to look back and see how much we've grown and the lasting legacy that we have created.” For the DETERMINATION she has into making lasting memories at CHS as ASB President and for the EMPATHY she has in making sure that all students have a sense of belonging as a Horned Toad, Paulina Benitez has Toad PRIDE.
Throughout her career as a Horned Toad, Paulina Benitez has been active in ASB, striving to create lasting memories for students.
What Toad PRIDE Means to Paulina: “What Toad PRIDE means to me is that it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to do something good for myself and for the people that have supportively surrounded me with love. The word I connect with the most in PRIDE is DETERMINATION. Having determination and being determined in every aspect of life creates a difference. If you are not determined to improve, or succeed you won't. If you are not determined to change, nothing will. I've always had the front row seat of witnessing my determined mom and dad as well as the determination within my sisters. But within me I have the determination to make those who mean the most to me proud.”
As ASB President for Coalinga High School, Paula Benitez is committed to ensuring that all students have connection on campus as a Horned Toad.
What Teachers and Staff Think of Paulina:
“Paulina Benitez in hustle personified! If there’s a loose ball she goes after it or if there is a breakaway lay-up from the opposing team, she’ll stop it. Miss Benitez is a dream to coach as she works so hard. But her leadership and care for others is what sets her apart from all the rest. Paulina is loaded with empathy and compassion, making her a dream to coach!” Michael Walker, Head Coach Varsity Girls Basketball, Coalinga High School
“Paulina is one of those students whose presence lights up the room. Her smile and optimistic personality are contagious and I genuinely miss her when she is absent. She takes great pride in her work and finds joy in helping others. She is a capable leader as well as an enthusiastic team player. I especially appreciate the questions and comments that she contributes to class. You can tell she has a genuine love for learning and a desire to push yourself to learn and grow. Paulina is kind and compassionate, dedicated, and helpful, and instead of making excuses, she makes things happen.” Jennifer Lucero, Biology Teacher, Coalinga High School
“Paulina is a True example of TOAD PRIDE! She is a dedicated student here at CHS. Paulina is not only a student, but a person of responsibility , determination and empathy. Throughout my time here at CHS, I have gotten to know Paulina better and she is someone who truly cares for others. She is always motivated to do better and to be a leader when needed. She is not only an ASB president but an amazing student and an impressive athlete. Her determination to strive to be better in all areas makes her a true example of what PRIDE represents and I look forward to seeing her be an amazing ASB president!” Luis Castro, Activities Director, Coalinga High School
“Paulina is very friendly and respectful to everyone. She is a dedicated student who takes responsibility for her education. She is committed to learning and being her best for herself and for the school community.” Alexandra Moreno, Math Teacher, Coalinga High School