From a young age, Isaac Sarmiento has dreamed of being part of something greater.

Issac decided early in his high school journey that he wanted to participate in an international student exchange, and, with a lot of hard work, he was able to spend eight months in Japan, spanning the spring semester of junior year and fall of his senior year. So even though Isaac hasn’t been able to experience the full year as a senior at Chandler High School, he has still very much enjoyed his final semester at CHS. When he returned, Isaac appreciated seeing how much his friends had grown, and also seeing how seemingly small decisions can make a huge difference, like meeting his friend Andrew because they both just happened to eat lunch in the percussion room instead of the cafeteria on the same day.

When he returned stateside from Japan, Isaac set his sights on his next great dream, becoming a Navy SEAL. Becoming a Navy SEAL is a long and arduous process, including several highly strenuous physical tests. Issac has already begun training for these physical requirements, getting better every day. He even started taking swim lessons to improve his swimming skills.

In the meantime, Isaac has enjoyed all that comes with being a high school senior, with his favorite experience being this year’s Prom. “I thought it was neat getting dressed up and hanging out with my buddies,” Isaac said.

Looking toward the future, Issac hopes his hard work will pay off, and he will be able to fulfill his life-long dream of joining the Navy Special Forces. Most of all, he wants to be an encouragement to others to chase their own dreams, no matter how far away they may seem.