Tatiana Uribe

Tatiana Uribe – California
Nomination & Photography by Keith Alton Portraits
Issue 65 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Tatiana is an inspiring young lady because of her abilities to care for others, intelligence, and commitment to achieving her goals. She demonstrates this everyday through caring for her sisters at a young age and being an advocate for mental health awareness. She is her sister’s number 1 supporter when it comes to school work and sports. Most recently, she has been assisting with one of her younger sisters who was recently diagnosed with autism. This is only one example of why I’m considering her to be inspirational and most importantly a role model for many teens. Along with everyday life challenges, she has been able to achieve high academic success.
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Photography by Keith Alton Portraits

​What would you like to talk about?
No one ever gives you a manual on how to be a good big sister. I’m always told “you should do this” or “you need to set a good example”. We are born into this role without a choice and sometimes it feels like we walk a thin line while dodging balls. And let’s be honest, I’ve lost my balance, fallen, and most importantly picked myself up again. However, nevertheless, I’m reminded that I may not always succeed as the oldest sister to two younger ones, but as long as I’m learning along the way I’m staying true to my personal manual.

What is your family like and where do you fit in? Where do you stand out?
My family is composed of kind and supportive individuals who strive to help one another. I am fortunate to have such a supportive environment, which has helped shape me into the person I am today. I stand out from my family members in that I am vocal about the mental health struggles that many of my peers are facing. As the youngest in my family, I am often met with surprise when I discuss the reality of mental health issues, as many of my family members are not accustomed to this topic

What activities do you like doing with your sisters?
I enjoy spending quality time with my sisters, engaging in activities such as playing video games, watching television, and discussing our life experiences. We are able to connect with one another and provide advice on topics such as school, friends, and family. Our diverse personalities and life stages allow us to learn from each other and have a great time. Additionally, we often recreate childhood memories and traditions, such as having dance parties, which is always a highlight.

How do you assist your sister who has autism?
When my sister, Liani, was diagnosed with Autism, it was something that had been suspected for some time. Liani has always been a kind and generous person, and her passion for anime is well-known. I have tried to support my parents in helping her by being patient and understanding that she often just needs someone to listen. Growing up, I found it difficult to accept that she would copy me, but learning more about Autism has helped me to understand that she was looking

What do you wish everyone knew about autism?
It is important to recognize that autism manifests differently in each individual. There is a lack of understanding of the complexities of autism and the challenges that families face. Individuals with autism may experience difficulty with tasks that are considered to be relatively easy for those without the diagnosis, yet they may also excel in certain areas. For example, my sister has an impressive talent for writing, creating poems and letters that are deeply moving and offer a unique perspective on life.

Tell us about your academics and why they are important to you.
During my academic career so far I have never taken AP classes. I was worried I was never going to measure up or be at the same level as many kids in those classes. Therefore I really skipped out on many opportunities in regards to being able to hold myself to a higher standard because I didn't want to be judged. My anxiety got the best of me throughout my years of high school. My grades have always been important to me. I always want to succeed in everything I do and show others what I am capable of.

Photography by Keith Alton Portraits

​How did you find and why did you choose Keith Alton Portraits for your photographer?
I was fortunate to find Keith Alton Portraits through a family member who is a current member of a BNI Chapter in California. BNI is the largest networking organization in the US allowing members within the chapters pass successful leads or referrals to help support local businesses. I am so glad I chose Keith McGuire for my senior portraits. He was so patient and kind throughout the entire process. He made sure to take the time to get to know me and my style before the shoot. He also made sure to capture my personality in the photos. He was able to make me feel comfortable and relaxed during the shoot, which made the experience much more enjoyable. I am so happy with the results and I am so glad I chose Keith McGuire for my senior portraits because I was able to develop trust given by my family

What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
When I met Mr. McGuire, he was very welcoming and kind. He mentioned that he had been interested in photography for a while, but had never done a senior portrait session before. I was initially nervous, but he made me feel more comfortable by saying that we would be learning together. During the session, I was quite stiff, but Mr. McGuire encouraged me to loosen up and even dance, which eventually turned into a dance party. Working with the photographer enabled me to feel more confident and relaxed. I truly appreciated the opportunity to provide input on how and where I should be photographed, and to express my own ideas throughout the process. Furthermore, the photographer went above and beyond by driving two hours to take my senior pictures and scouting out the best locations three hours before our scheduled meeting.

What has been the best part of being a senior this year?
Senior year has been an eventful journey. It is surreal to think that I am soon to embark on the next chapter of my life, yet I am filled with anticipation. The most rewarding part of this year has been the opportunity to discover myself. I have gained a better understanding of who I am and what I aspire to become. I am determined to be successful and to reach my goals. This year has taught me the importance of pushing past my anxieties and embracing the experiences of high school. I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and attend school sporting events, such as football games, despite the large crowds. This has enabled me to create lasting memories and enjoy my high school years.

What will you miss most about high school?
What I will miss most about high school is the strong relationships I have built with my teachers over the years. They have provided me with invaluable advice and guidance that has helped me become successful. I have a great deal of admiration for my teachers and it is difficult to imagine not seeing them on a daily basis. Additionally, I will miss the environment and the familiarity of seeing my peers every day. It is bittersweet to think of not walking down the halls and seeing some of my friends.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
If I had free time, I would likely spend it with friends. I appreciate the opportunity to go on adventures with them and enjoy the beauty of sunsets in the evening. Sunsets bring me a sense of peace and I find them to be one of the most stunning sights in the world. I often take the time to sit outside with my speaker and snacks to watch the sun set and admire the sky.

How would your friends describe you?
My friends would describe me as a person of great kindness and generosity. I am highly supportive and always available to lend a helping hand. I am known to bring a lighthearted atmosphere to any room I enter, and I am also known for my loyalty and big heart. I am passionate about helping others and always strive to provide the best support I can.

Photography by Keith Alton Portraits

​What do you and your friends like to do in down time?
My friends and I greatly appreciate the opportunity to engage in recreational activities during the summer, such as swimming and visiting parks. We often bring a soccer ball or volleyball to initiate friendly competitions. We also enjoy running through sprinklers in the evening, which often leads to laughter and good-natured fun. During the winter, we often plan movie nights at one another's homes, bringing our favorite snacks to share.

What are you most looking forward to after graduation?
I am eager to embark on my post-graduation journey, which includes traveling the world and learning new languages. I am also looking forward to the challenge of living independently for the first time. I anticipate that this will be a rewarding experience that will provide me with invaluable lessons.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
One of the greatest things someone can do for another person is making them feel welcomed. Introductions are rarely unnecessary especially when you come from a small high school in Chico, California. Typically, you know everyone or at least know about them. Majority of the time, those pre- conceived notions are inaccurate. Which is why I strive to ensure that I treat everyone based on my personal experiences with them and not from what I’ve heard. It starts by saying “Hi” to someone and making them feel welcomed. By simply doing that, it gives others hope of feeling a sense of belonging.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
I’d like to make the topic of mental awareness a safe haven for all children and teens who are struggling to find their voice and be heard on challenges only known to themselves. I hope to make it a topic that can be discussed openly and freely all while continuing to overcome the obstacles of those who want to silence mental awareness. In the hopes that one day when we are grown, we become the type of adults our younger selves would admire and inspire to be.

Look for Tatiana in issue 65 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 65

click here to nominate an inspiring teen