In this episode of the Somos Sunnyside Podcast, we sit down with Ximena Balmaceda, Sunnyside High School’s 2025 valedictorian, who shares her inspiring academic journey marked by dedication, humility, and a deep love for science. With an extraordinary 4.61 GPA, Ximena is set to attend the University of Arizona, where she plans to study microbiology and continue exploring her passion for research.

Ximena reflects on her time as a student in the Sunnyside Unified School District, from her early days at Rivera Elementary, to Lauffer Middle School, and finally, Sunnyside High School. She speaks with gratitude about the teachers who guided and encouraged her every step of the way. Despite achieving top academic honors, Ximena remains grounded and focused, having quietly committed to maintaining her valedictorian status from early in high school.

Tune in to hear how lab visits, supportive educators, and a genuine curiosity for science helped shape Ximena’s future, and how she hopes to make an impact in the world through STEM.