Freshman Year - 9th Grade

From August of 2024, to April of 2025, I attended school at Liceo de Apodaca, an IB School in Apodaca, México. I had been attending that school since 3rd Grade, it was in this school were I learned English and where I developed a taste for engineering. We had an engineering class, we were taught the Design Cycle, we developed several IB Projects, and the teacher for that class was my "Homeroom" teacher, and became one of my favorite teachers, he invited me to participate on the "KIA STEAM: Inspirando el Futuro" program as co-lider, which was fun.

Liceo de Apodaca Transcript - First Semester

Course Name Description & Value in the U.S. System Grade
Cuerdas "Cuerdas" was the strings subgroup of the music department, I excelled in this small orchestra, playing Violin 1 and Cello on distinct ocasions. The U.S. system translated this class into "TI-ART" G - Passing Grade; Has no effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Art
Química I took chemistry on Liceo de Apodaca, pretty nice class, enjoyable. The U.S. system translated it into "TI-SCIENCE" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Science
Español Spanish, nice class. U.S. System translated it into "TI-ESPANOL/LIT" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards English
Matemáticas Maths, in Liceo de Apodaca it was divided into three different groups, Basic, Intermediate and Advanced, I was on Advanced, we saw a little bit of everything, Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry, it was an exciting class. Translated into "TI-MATH" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Mathematics
Diseño My favorite class, we made buildings, designed CAD, studied solutions to different environmental issues, the teacher was very nice. Translated into "TI-TECH" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Miscellaneous.
Educación Física Physical Education, not my favorite class, me and my friends had fun playing dodge ball, but we mostly just chilled and played video games. Translated to "TI-PHYS ED" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Physical Education
Historia One of the best classes, all my friends always did all the works together, since the teacher was pretty relaxed and had no issues letting us choose our own teammates. Translated into "TI-HISTORY" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Social Studies.
Inglés My second favorite class, we read a bunch of awesome books like Farhenheit 451, Romeo & Juliet and the Glass Menagerie. We had a "Shakesperian Night", basically we came dressed as people from the time period of Romeo & Juliet, and each group presented a key aspect of that time, like music, food or traditions; me and my teammates talked about music, and we spoke in Elizabethan English. Translated into "TI-INGLES" G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards World Language.

On March 15th of 2025, my family and I moved to the United States, and I started attending Northville High School, in Michigan. At the start I was a bit overwhelmed by all the different electives and options, in Mexico you can't choose your courses, at least not in High School, so I chose all the stuff I thought I would like. I started my classes on April of 2025.

Northville High - Second Semester

Course Name Description Grade
Seminar B An EDP is an educational development plan to raise awareness of the connection between career goals and the credentials required to attain that goal. This is a requirement from the state of Michigan. Students who do not complete their EDP (Seminar modules) will receive an incomplete for their seminar grade for the semester. Students will use Xello to complete their EDP, which can be accessed through Clever. G - Passing Grade; Has no effect on GPA; 0.25 Credits towards Miscellaneous
Metals 1 Interested in the fundamentals of metalsmithing and jewelry? Do you want to strengthen your hands and craftsmanship skills while working with tools? Then this lab type class is the place for you (the responsible, mature, caring, self discipline, reflective, creative, etc. student)! Explore basic skills such as: sawing, punching, piercing, drilling, filing, finishing, enameling, jewelry making, etc. Become knowledgeable in metals designs, metal smithing, metals construction, jewelry construction while making jewelry, keychains, tsubas, etc. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Art
Algebra 1 This course satisfies the Algebra 1 requirement established by the State of Michigan. It is based on the Common Core State Standards and the Standards for Mathematical Practices with an emphasis on the IB Learner Profile. This course will further develop the skills and concepts learned in Math 8. The content of this two-semester course will include the following: writing, graphing and solving linear equations and linear inequalities, exponents, polynomial equations and factoring, graphing and solving quadratic equations, exponential modeling, radical functions and equations, data analysis and displays. A TI-84+c graphing calculator is recommended for this course. Students who successfully complete one year of Algebra 1 are prepared to enroll in Geometry the next school year. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Math
Concert Orchestra Concert Orchestra is a year-long non-audition ensemble open to all students who play traditional orchestra instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass, harp). Students will build musicianship and technique through varied repertoire, including chamber music and/or solo work. Students will be required to perform and rehearse outside of the school day in sectionals, and as an ensemble. Individual proficiency will require practice outside of the school day. Students will be given enrichment opportunities to flourish and reach their full potential. Music theory, history, and appreciation will be embedded in music literacy concepts. Attendance at camp is highly encouraged (One week of summer day camp for high school-only peer connections, sectionals, and workshops, Details to follow.) NOTE: Students may play in both orchestras on primary instruments (symphony) and secondary instruments (concert) if they so choose. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Music
Astronomy & Meteorology This course provides an introduction to the concepts of modern astronomy and meteorology. Astronomy topics include the origin and history of the universe, stellar distances, star formation, and motion of celestial objects including analysis of Kepler’s laws of planetary motion. Students will use various mathematical formulas to determine distances and time in the universe, as well as the physics behind planetary motion. Meteorology topics include structure and function of the atmosphere and its effect on weather and climate. Analysis of weather conditions and predictability is emphasized. Global climate change is also discussed. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Science.
Geology This lab-based course focuses on exploring and understanding the physical structure of the Earth. Topics include mineralogy, rock formation, geologic time, plate tectonics, and human impact. This course includes discussion and analysis of natural disasters and their impacts on society. Students will also virtually explore several national parks to gain a better understanding of geologic features. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Science
English English 9, a course required for all freshmen, offers broad experience in literature, writing, and speaking. Through discussion, written analysis, and oral presentation, students will explore various literary formats: the short story, poetry, drama, and the novel. A variety of writing experiences beginning with shorter compositions and extending to full-length essays will provide a medium for lessons in mechanics and vocabulary. Units within this course encompass the philosophies of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards English.
Advanced Programming in C++ This course covers the fundamentals of computer science and the C++ programming language. Important data structures and algorithms, which better equip students to create more professional software, will be covered. Students will complete hands-on exercises, imaginative programming problems, and interdisciplinary projects throughout the course. The following topics will be covered: entering, compiling and running programs, variables and constants, math operations, strings and screen I/O, decision making programs, loops, functions, and arrays. G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.5 Credits towards Computer Studies.

Sophomore Year - 10th Grade

After the first semester in the United States, I had gone past my initial surprise and replanned everything. On Mexico, my plan was to attend the equivalent of High School, a "preparatoria", specifically one of the most rigorous called Prepa UDEM, then attend the same university my parents went to, "Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León" and get a degree in Mechatronic Engineering. Now, in U.S., I decided to focus on this new set of opportunities, I first set my goals on discovering what could I do that could set a record on my interests, so I got into the Project Lead the Way Program. Sadly, since I didn't properly investigate for my first semester, I had to take classes that freshmen did, like U.S. History or Biology

First Semester

Course Name Description Grade
Ceramics 1 Did you enjoy playing in the mud as a kid? Taking this class allows you to rediscover that joy and the possibilities of clay! Learn basic hand-building techniques, including pinch pots, coils, and slab construction. You will communicate through and inquire about clay by taking risks and remaining open-minded. Appropriate dress is required. This class has a materials fee. B+; 0.5 Credits towards Art
English From an ancient Greek play to a contemporary South African essay, English 10 challenges students to make connections between their lives and the people of other countries and ethnic groups. Students explore novels, short stories, plays, non-fiction, and poetry through a multicultural approach to literature. As students analyze and interpret readings of gifted writers, they mine the contributions of a diverse and complex world population - one whose future depends upon global consciousness and cooperation. In response to the literature, students integrate writing and speaking activities that include impromptu essays, oral presentations, documented research, creative and poetic compositions and projects, and analytical reviews. English 10 is a year-long course and a requirement for high school graduation. Through both the writing and literature, students will be engaging with the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program. B-; 0.5 Credits towards English
Project Lead the Way - Introduction to Engineering Design Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work. A; 0.5 Credits towards Engineering/Industrial Arts
Geometry This course satisfies the Geometry requirement established by the State of Michigan. It is based on the Common Core State Standards and the Standards for Mathematical Practices with an emphasis on the IB Learner Profile. This course follows Algebra 1. The content of this course will include: logical reasoning and proof, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle congruence, special properties of triangles, quadrilaterals, transformations, similarity, trigonometry, arcs and angles of circles, area and measurement, and surface area and volume. Introduction to Geometric Probability. Students who successfully complete one year of Geometry will be prepared to enroll in Algebra 2 the next school year. A; 0.5 Credits towards Mathematics
Symphonic Orchestra Symphony Orchestra is a year-long auditioned ensemble of ideal balanced instrumentation, performing at an extremely high level of achievement. The ensemble is open to all students who play traditional orchestra instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass, harp) who have met all audition requirements. This ensemble plays a wide variety of orchestral repertoire including masterpieces by well-known composers as well as modern works for string orchestra and full orchestra, which includes advanced wind players. Chamber music and/or solo work will also be part of the course. Students will be required to perform and rehearse outside of the school day in sectionals, and as an ensemble. Individual proficiency will require practice outside of the school day. Students will be given enrichment opportunities to flourish and reach their full potential. Mentoring and leadership will be cultivated. Music theory, history, and appreciation will be integrated into the curriculum. Attendance at camp is highly encouraged (One week of summer day camp for high school-only peer connections, sectionals, and workshops, Details to follow.) NOTE: Students may play in both orchestras on primary instruments (symphony) and secondary instruments (concert) if they so choose. A-; 0.5 Credits towards Music.
Biology This Biology course emphasizes the exploration and application of key life science concepts through the understanding of disciplinary core ideas, use of science and engineering practices, and connection of crosscutting concepts based on the Michigan Science Standards. Topics explored in this semester include: Structure and Function, Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems, and Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems. Units within Biology A encompass the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (MYP) philosophy. B; 0.5 Credits towards Science
U.S. History U.S. History 1890-Present is a two semester course required for graduation. Beginning with America’s industrial and territorial expansion in the late 19th century, we explore the extremes of wealth and poverty faced by citizens and immigrants alike. In the 20th century, we investigate the challenge of America maintaining economic growth while enacting social reform, using as examples the Great Depression and the Civil Rights movement. The evolution of America’s role as a superpower is traced through the two World Wars, Vietnam, and the collapse of communism, which serves as a backdrop for understanding our role in a rapidly changing world. This course incorporates units in the MYP philosophy. B; 0.5 Credits towards Social Studies.
Seminar ------ G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.25 Credits towards Miscellaneous.
Since I started getting grades, my GPA started changing, originally, since all classes I took became a G and had no effect on my GPA, it started on 4.0. At the end of my second semester of Freshamn Year it had became 3.66, and by the end of the first Semester of Sophomore Year, it had became 3.44. A couple months later I would be even more dissapointed in myself for not doing the proper research, I could've taken Honors Geometry, therefore unlocking Honors Algebra 2 for my Junior year, taking Ceramics was also a mistake, although an interest and a very enjoyable class, it was not aligned with my engineering goals. Could've also taken AP Biology, but didn't, yet again due to my lack of proper research. For my second semester I hadn't been able to move to AP Computer Science, my teacher claimed she hadn't seen me for the first part of the second semester and therefore couldn't approve me... so I had to take it again on my second Semester of Sophomore year, yet another waste. Also, although I enjoyed the high demand and challenge of the Symphonic Orchestra, it started taking a toll on my mental health, I alwas thought of music as a way to relieve stress and actually like what I'm doing, while in Orchetsra I felt like I wasn't good enough, and noticed I was starting to dislike music, so I downgraded to Concert Orchestra.

Northville High - Second Semester

Course Name Description Grade
Seminar ------ G - Passing Grade; Has no effect on GPA; 0.25 Credits towards Miscellaneous
U.S. History ------ C+; 0.5 Credits towards Social Studies
Geometry ------ B+; 0.5 Credits towards Math
Concert Orchestra Concert Orchestra is a year-long non-audition ensemble open to all students who play traditional orchestra instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass, harp). Students will build musicianship and technique through varied repertoire, including chamber music and/or solo work. Students will be required to perform and rehearse outside of the school day in sectionals, and as an ensemble. Individual proficiency will require practice outside of the school day. Students will be given enrichment opportunities to flourish and reach their full potential. Music theory, history, and appreciation will be embedded in music literacy concepts. Attendance at camp is highly encouraged (One week of summer day camp for high school-only peer connections, sectionals, and workshops, Details to follow.) NOTE: Students may play in both orchestras on primary instruments (symphony) and secondary instruments (concert) if they so choose. A-; 0.5 Credits towards Music
Biology ------ B+; 0.5 Credits towards Science.
PLTW - Intro to Engineering Design ------ B; 0.5 Credits towards Engineering/Industrial Arts
English ------ B+; 0.5 Credits towards English.
Advanced Programming in C++ This course covers the fundamentals of computer science and the C++ programming language. Important data structures and algorithms, which better equip students to create more professional software, will be covered. Students will complete hands-on exercises, imaginative programming problems, and interdisciplinary projects throughout the course. The following topics will be covered: entering, compiling and running programs, variables and constants, math operations, strings and screen I/O, decision making programs, loops, functions, and arrays. A; 0.5 Credits towards Computer Studies.

Junior Year - 11th Grade

Junior Year proved the most exciting to me, I was accepted into the Mechatronics Course at William D. Ford Tech & Career Center, which would give me several industry certificates and hands-on experience, the cost would be four out of the eight class periods I had previously available would be completely occupied. So I would not be able to continue the PLTW Route, or take several mathematics or science classes in a parallel form.

First Semester

Course Name Description Grade
Ford Tech - Mechatronics Mechatronics combines mechanical, electrical, computer, and robotics systems. In manufacturing, it helps make everyday products like smart doorbells, cameras, robot vacuums, and drones. It is also important in healthcare, making devices like pacemakers, surgical robots, and prosthetic limbs, and in transportation, where it helps create smart vehicles and automated factories. Mechatronics engineers are in high demand, since they have skills that are useful in many industries, such as automotive, aerospace, aviation, bioengineering, manufacturing, and energy. #; 0.5 Credits towards Engineering/Industrial Arts
Modern Thought and Literature - English In this course, students follow a thematic approach to understanding the world and culture to which they belong. They will read diverse interpretations of various literary works and analyze films to compare them with companion novels. Various perspectives shared in group discussions encourage students to consider different points of view, reflect on personal interpretations of characters/settings, and make connections to real-life situations. Along with extensive readings, students will complete formal analyses, comparative essays, expository writing, formal research using MLA format, and final group presentations that provide additional opportunities for students to express their interpretation of a text/film. #; 0.5 Credits towards English
Algebra 2 This course satisfies the Algebra 2 requirement established by the State of Michigan. It is based on the Common Core State Standards and the Standards for Mathematical Practices with an emphasis on the IB Learner Profile. This course follows Geometry and Algebra 1. The content of this course will include: functions and their graphs, inequalities, piecewise functions, absolute value functions, solving linear systems and linear inequalities, basic trigonometry, exponents, quadratics, exponential and logarithmic functions, and rational functions. A TI-84+c graphing calculator is recommended for this course. Students who successfully complete one year of Algebra 2 will be prepared to enroll in Pre Calculus or IB Math Applications SL the next school year. #; 0.5 Credits towards Mathematics
World History and Geography World History and Geography is a course required for graduation. The course takes a global and comparative approach to studying the world and its past to develop a greater understanding of worldwide events, processes, and interactions among the world’s people, cultures, societies, and environment. Integrating geography and history the course will engage students in cross-time and cross-regional studies. The course covers world history and geography from 300 CE/AD to the present. The first semester will cover the Crisis in the Classical World to Interpreting Europe’s Increasing Global Power and Political Revolutions. The second semester will continue from the Growth of Nationalism and Nation-States to the Contemporary Global Issues of Population, Resources, Patterns of Global Interactions, Conflict, Cooperation, and Security. #; 0.5 Credits towards Social Studies
Honors Physics This course is designed for students who are looking to be challenged beyond the basic Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) requirements. Students interested in pursuing STEM-related careers should consider this course. Honors Physics A is designed to develop the concepts of motion, force, Newton’s Laws, energy, momentum, and rotational motion. Lab experiences, discussions, lectures, and problem solving are included in the course. The pacing of concepts and the depth of study are greater in this course as compared to Physics A. Since this class is heavily math based, students must have a strong working knowledge of algebra and a good working knowledge of trigonometry. Students will be expected to solve problems and manipulate equations independently. An inexpensive scientific calculator is required for this course. Students taking this course should plan to take Honors Physics B the following semester. Students taking this course are eligible for AP Physics C. #; 0.5 Credits towards Science.
Virtual Seminar ------ G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.25 Credits towards Miscellaneous.

Northville High - Second Semester

Course Name Description Grade
Ford Tech - Mechatronics Mechatronics combines mechanical, electrical, computer, and robotics systems. In manufacturing, it helps make everyday products like smart doorbells, cameras, robot vacuums, and drones. It is also important in healthcare, making devices like pacemakers, surgical robots, and prosthetic limbs, and in transportation, where it helps create smart vehicles and automated factories. Mechatronics engineers are in high demand, since they have skills that are useful in many industries, such as automotive, aerospace, aviation, bioengineering, manufacturing, and energy. #; 0.5 Credits towards Engineering/Industrial Arts
Modern Thought and Literature - English In this course, students follow a thematic approach to understanding the world and culture to which they belong. They will read diverse interpretations of various literary works and analyze films to compare them with companion novels. Various perspectives shared in group discussions encourage students to consider different points of view, reflect on personal interpretations of characters/settings, and make connections to real-life situations. Along with extensive readings, students will complete formal analyses, comparative essays, expository writing, formal research using MLA format, and final group presentations that provide additional opportunities for students to express their interpretation of a text/film. #; 0.5 Credits towards English
Algebra 2 This course satisfies the Algebra 2 requirement established by the State of Michigan. It is based on the Common Core State Standards and the Standards for Mathematical Practices with an emphasis on the IB Learner Profile. This course follows Geometry and Algebra 1. The content of this course will include: functions and their graphs, inequalities, piecewise functions, absolute value functions, solving linear systems and linear inequalities, basic trigonometry, exponents, quadratics, exponential and logarithmic functions, and rational functions. A TI-84+c graphing calculator is recommended for this course. Students who successfully complete one year of Algebra 2 will be prepared to enroll in Pre Calculus or IB Math Applications SL the next school year. #; 0.5 Credits towards Mathematics
World History and Geography World History and Geography is a course required for graduation. The course takes a global and comparative approach to studying the world and its past to develop a greater understanding of worldwide events, processes, and interactions among the world’s people, cultures, societies, and environment. Integrating geography and history the course will engage students in cross-time and cross-regional studies. The course covers world history and geography from 300 CE/AD to the present. The first semester will cover the Crisis in the Classical World to Interpreting Europe’s Increasing Global Power and Political Revolutions. The second semester will continue from the Growth of Nationalism and Nation-States to the Contemporary Global Issues of Population, Resources, Patterns of Global Interactions, Conflict, Cooperation, and Security. #; 0.5 Credits towards Social Studies
Honors Physics This course is designed for students who are looking to be challenged beyond the basic Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) requirements. Students interested in pursuing STEM-related careers should consider this course. Honors Physics B is designed to expand on the concepts developed in Honors Physics A. The course will develop the concepts of electricity, magnetism, waves, sound, and light. The format of the course is similar to Honors Physics A. Since this class is heavily math based, students must have a strong working knowledge of algebra and a good working knowledge of trigonometry. Students will be expected to solve problems and manipulate equations independently. An inexpensive scientific calculator is required for this course. Students taking this course are eligible for AP Physics C. #; 0.5 Credits towards Science.
Virtual Seminar ------ G - Passing Grade; No effect on GPA; 0.25 Credits towards Miscellaneous.

Senior Year - 12th Grade

To be seen...