After a quick trip to Colombia at the beginning of the summer to visit family, David De La Hoz, Westwood Christian School’s valedictorian, has spent the balance of his summer working and taking classes at FIU. The goal-oriented De La Hoz doesn’t mind, though. He’s more than willing to sacrifice his summer if it moves him closer toward his dream of becoming a physician.

“I like to work hard,” says the 18-year-old. “If I start something, I finish it.”

FIU is so proud to welcome this ambitious young man to the Golden Panther family that we’re featuring him in an ad campaign to run in The Miami Herald. Recently, we met with De La Hoz and asked him a few questions about himself and his future plans.

Here is a video of the interview:

Here is an excerpt of the interview:

What it took to be the best in my class:
Hard work and dedication. I’ve learned you never accomplish anything by quitting.

On starting college at FIU:
FIU is a really great school. I like to work hard, so I’m looking forward to the challenge.

Where I see myself in 5 years:
In medical school. I’m leaning toward anesthesiology as a specialty.

My dream:
I’ve never wanted to be anything but a doctor.

“I considered other schools, but in the end I went with FIU. I know I’ll get a great education that will prepare me for the rest of my life.”

To view the ad, which ran in the July 23rd issue of The Miami Herald, please click here to download a PDF file.

You may download Adobe Acrobat Reader from here if needed to view the file.