Her extra-long hair might be the first thing you notice about Yoselin Gomez, a sophomore at Spring Woods High School (SWHS), but she is so much more.
She is an outstanding soccer player on the school’s junior varsity team, according to her coach, Hope Harlow, a first-year art teacher and coach who is also a 2018 alumna of Spring Woods High School.
“She is a phenomenal player on and off the field,” Harlow said. “She is one of the girls I can rely on to tell me the nitty-gritty about what is happening. She is levelheaded and compassionate toward other players, even those on the opposing team.”
Gomez played soccer in her neighborhood when she was younger, but joining the SWHS squad last year was her first experience on an organized team.
She initially played volleyball last year, but at the urging of her older sister, she gave soccer a try and found a good fit.
“It’s been really fun,” Gomez said. “I have made new friends, and both coaches have been really good.”
'Do what needs to be done'
“If I play her anywhere on the field, I can trust she will do what needs to be done,” Harlow said. “I love having her on the team as a player. She radiates energy and joy.”
The soccer season is just getting started, with the team playing at least two matches or scrimmages a week. They have only lost once and tied with the Memorial High School JV team.
“We were very excited about that,” Harlow said.
Yoselin credits soccer with improving her communication skills.
“In the past, I was shy, and I would have been nervous to do this interview,” she said confidently. “But soccer has changed me.”
Her teammates appreciate her calm demeanor and rely on her to steady them when emotions run high.
“Soccer can be a stressful game,” Gomez said. “But for me, it helps me stay focused, and I’m able to help my teammates be happier and control their frustrations.”
More than hair and makeup
When Gomez toured the Guthrie Center during eighth grade, she was drawn to the cosmetology program.
Her interest in makeup and hair care grew as she learned more about the program, but what really caught her attention was the opportunity to earn certification in her senior year, allowing her to begin working in the industry right out of high school.
“I will have the ability to start my own business,” she said.
The program covers not only the creative aspects of cosmetology but also business management, communication skills, and other professional skills.
This year, under the direction of cosmetology teacher Emelin Salazar, students have learned about the importance of antibacterial practices. This semester, they have started studying skin care.
“Yesterday, we made our own body scrub,” Gomez said. “In mine, I used sugar and other oils in the mixture. It makes my skin so soft!”
'No matter what'
Salazar said Yoselin is a respectful and positive presence in the classroom, asking questions when she is unsure about something in the textbook or on a mannequin.
The cosmetology teacher inspires Gomez by reminding her she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to while working toward licensure and her diploma.
“I admire that Yoselin has a great attitude no matter what,” Salazar said. “She always completes all her work without excuses and is friendly with her classmates. I love how she makes sure to stay on top of her grades—not only in my class but in all her classes.”
Gomez looks forward to next year’s classes in the program, which will cover cutting and styling hair. She will likely be called upon to help her classmates learn how to care for a lot of hair.
Coach Harlow noted that Yoselin is more focused on doing beautiful things for others rather than being glamorous herself.
Salazar was pleased that Yoselin was chosen for this student spotlight.
“She is a great example for her school,” Salazar said with pride.