Confidence, humility, diligence — Miguel and his brothers brought great values with them. HighSight helped them tap into these and more, guiding them to change the trajectory of their lives.
After having recently earned his Ph.D. in exercise oncology and beginning a postdoctoral position at Northwestern University, HighSight alumnus Miguel Negrete '14 shares this reflection:
"HighSight invested in me before I understood what was possible for my future. From helping fund my high school education, and an exchange program in Paraguay, to a full-ride scholarship at Furman University, they opened doors that changed the course of my life. That foundation carried me to the Peace Corps, to graduate school, and now a doctorate. HighSight did more than give me opportunities. They helped me see that I belonged in spaces I never imagined reaching."
Miguel Negrete sharing his wisdom to junior-year HighSight Scholars.
For Miguel, and his brothers, HighSight has been a decades-long family affair. Starting with Miguel in 2010, all four Negrete brothers have attended St. Laurence High School in Burbank, IL. Christopher '17 (pictured left) followed and went on to graduate from Denison University in 2021. Upon graduation, he returned to Chicago to pursue his passion in veterinary medicine where he continues to study at _______________.
Nicholas '25 is currently a sophomore at Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. He is working toward his goal of becoming a paramedic. He also currently serves as a volunteer firefighter in Huntingdon. Both Christopher and Nicholas went to their institutions on full-ride scholarships that HighSight helped them secure.
Nicholas in Japan during his summer abroad experience.
"I think my favorite yet most stressful moment at HighSight was when I was applying for the study abroad program. We were constantly rushing to make sure everything was prepared. Even though it was stressful, it’s still my favorite memory because it showed me how much HighSight truly cares and wants the best for us.
The youngest brother, Lorenzo, has just entered HighSight as a member of our incoming Class of 2030. He spent this summer participating in HighSight's summer bridge program. Over the three-week program, he learned new math and study skills, learned about the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, and expanded his college knowledge.
Lorenzo pictured during HighSight's "welcome" picnic
"One thing I learned this summer, is that you always want to be on your teacher's good side. It is important to have a good relationships with them."
As the youngest of the family, Lorenzo has a legacy to continue– one that Miguel started long ago.
Miguel, as the oldest, has long served as a role model for his younger brothers. After losing their father to cancer, Miguel stepped up for his brothers. "My hero is my brother Mikey... When our dad died, he really stepped up and was there for me and Nicko through like everything. Chris too... I know I have a lot of people to make proud," Lorenzo stated when asked who his hero is. Their mother, too, Lorenzo said, has been the biggest support for all of them.
Miguel and his brothers have left behind a legacy of confidence, humility, and diligence. Congratulations on this momentous achievement, Miguel!
