Designing a New Life: Gabriel Romero's Journey from Silence to Success
When Gabriel (Gabe) Romero first stepped into Megan Dohn's graphic design class at Ballard High School, he was a shy freshman who could barely speak English. Today, he's a confident senior, a strong student, a budding entrepreneur, and the winner of a prestigious design contest. Gabe's transformation is a testament to the power of perseverance, supportive educators, and the Academies of Louisville.
From Venezuela to Louisville
Gabe's journey began in Venezuela, where he excelled academically. At eleven, his family made the difficult decision to leave everything behind and move to the United States. "It is hard because the government controls everything," Gabe explains, reflecting on the situation in Venezuela. So his family sold everything to move to Louisville, where one of his dad’s friends had already moved.
The first four years in the U.S. were challenging for Gabe. He struggled academically and linguistically, attending Newcomer Academy and then Westport Middle School. When he entered Ballard High School as a freshman, he still didn't know English well. "I didn't like to talk to people," Gabe recalls. "I was afraid that I would say something wrong."
Discovering a Passion for Design
Despite his initial struggles, Gabe discovered a passion for graphic design. As a child, he loved to paint and draw, often learning techniques from YouTube videos. So he chose the Media Arts Academy at Ballard.
At first, Gabe's lack of English proficiency held him back. "I didn’t do well because I didn't know English," he admits. He even emailed Mrs. Dohn to ask not to do a presentation, saying, "I can't do this because I can't speak English."
Mrs. Dohn navigated this challenge with patience and understanding. "I did not want to pressure him, but did emphasize the importance of basic presentation," she explains. "We would have several presentations throughout the year." So she came up with alternative arrangements for this first presentation.
“The small learning communities have helped Gabe and all students to turn familiar classmates into true friends. They become like family by the end of the four years.”
Breaking the Silence
As Gabe's English improved, so did his confidence and skills. By his junior year, he was doing all of his projects and presentations. "Now I have confidence," Gabe says proudly. "Now I talk to a lot of people."
Mrs. Dohn has witnessed this incredible growth firsthand. "Gabe has had tremendous growth and success in the graphic design pathway," she notes. "He has become truly bilingual and is an excellent student across the board."
Designing Success
Gabe's hard work paid off when he won a poster design contest for Louisville City FC, the local soccer team. His design was chosen from more than 50 entries, and he was honored at a game, with his achievement displayed on the big screen.
"I think I won because I did all of the changes they asked for," Gabe says, demonstrating his willingness to accept feedback and improve his work. Louisville City FC is a business partner with Ballard High School.
The Power of Community
The Academies of Louisville, with its focus on small learning communities, has played a crucial role in Gabe's success. Mrs. Dohn explains, "The small learning communities have helped Gabe and all students to turn familiar classmates into true friends. They become like family by the end of the four years." Indeed, Gabe’s best friends are in the Media Arts Academy, and he loves getting to know different people in the school.
Designing His Future
Now, Gabe is setting his sights on the future. He plans to start his own clothing brand, Romez, inspired by a project in Mrs. Dohn's class. "I love a good design," Gabe says. "I like to create."
As Gabe prepares to graduate, he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and growth. From a freshman who ate lunch alone with his AirPods in, to a senior who confidently presents his work, Gabe's journey is an inspiration to all.
Mrs. Dohn sums it up best: "Gabe is a pleasure to work with as a student. He is everything you hope for - awesome work ethic, respectful, resourceful and positive." Gabe's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated educators and supportive initiatives can have on a student's life. Through his journey from silence to success, Gabe has truly designed a new life for himself.
