RYLA Aplications 2026
Personal Data
Rotary Club: Grand Island Rotary Clubs
Name: Sofia A Alba Esparza
Gender: Female
School Grade: Sophomore
School – Grand Island Central Catholic
Primary Phone Number – 308.218.8066
Address: 415 Buffalo Grass st. Grand Island, NE 68803
Parent/Guardian Information:
Rocío Esparza
Phone: 308.383.8047 Email: [email protected]
Relationship – Mother
Vision
Please explain what you hope to gain by participating in RYLA.
I am interested in participating in RYLA because it would give me the opportunity to develop leadership skills, grow as a leader, and find my own voice. Using my voice confidently is really important to me because I want to inspire others, share my ideas, and make a positive impact in our school and community. This year, I want to focus on our community because I know that the relationships we build and the way we work together makes everyone stronger and more connected. I am also excited to learn from others in RYLA because hearing different perspectives helps me grow, see the world in new ways, and become more open minded. I want to learn how to communicate better, take initiative, and support others while working towards shared goals. Developing these leadership skills will not only help me now, but it will continue to benefit me throughout my life in every aspect. Learning how to be a leader is a step in the right direction towards becoming a well rounded human.
Rotary’s motto is “service above self.” What does that mean to you?
To me, “service above self” means putting the needs of others before my own recognition or convenience and choosing to make a positive impact even when it is not required. It means showing up for my community in ways that support, encourage, and uplift others without expecting anything in return. Whether I am helping younger students at my after-school program, supporting teammates in Speech and FBLA, or participating in school and community activities, I have learned that leadership is not about attention, it is about responsibility and service. “Service above self” reflects the kind of person I want to become: someone who uses their time, energy, and voice to strengthen others and contribute to something bigger than myself.
Past and Current Experience
Have you ever volunteered before? – Yes
List any past or present volunteer experiences including dates volunteered and position responsibilities.
Volunteer Experiences
Husker Harvest (7th–10th grade)
Helped with event setup and supported staff by organizing activities and assisting guests. Gained experience working with others and staying reliable in a large community event.
YMCA – Dashing for Donuts (2024)
Helped with setup, supported runners, and assisted with cleanup. Worked as part of a team to keep the event organized and positive for participants.
State Fair Race (Fall 2025)
Supported event logistics and helped guide participants during the race. Learned how to stay flexible and helpful in a busy environment.
Stur Museum Project (Fall 2025)
Took part in a community museum project focused on organization and engagement. Worked with others to support learning and community involvement.
Race for Grace (Spring 2026)
Helped with setup, supported runners, and assisted with cleanup. Contributed to a welcoming and supportive environment for participants.
Basketball Game Recycling (2025–2026 season)
Collected recycling during basketball games and helped keep the gym clean. Stayed consistent throughout the season and took responsibility for an ongoing service role.
St. Mary’s Cathedral Volunteer Work (2025)
Supported church and community activities by helping with organization, setup, and general service needs. Gained experience serving in a respectful and community-focused environment.
These experiences have helped me develop consistency, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility. I’ve learned that meaningful leadership comes from showing up, helping where needed, and contributing to something bigger than myself.
Do you currently have a job? – Yes
List up to three past or current paid job experience including dates employed and responsibilities. Start with your most recent
Employer: Deliboards GI
Dates: June 3rd, 2024-Now
Job duties & Responsibilities: My responsibilities at Deliboards include ensuring that everything is organized, prepared on time, and running smoothly. I primarily work the cash register, but I also assist the owner, Mellisa Garcia, in creating charcuterie boards at events. I believe my most important responsibility is ensuring customer satisfaction by providing strong, friendly interpersonal skills.
Employer: Crusader Care
Dates: August 18th 2025-Now
Job duties and responsibilities: My overall responsibilities at this child care after-school program include assisting elementary school students with their homework, supporting their learning, and organizing games and creative activities. Through this role, I have developed leadership skills such as patience, communication, and responsibility, which I am excited to continue growing through the RYLA program.
Have you received any awards or honors? – Yes
List awards or recognition that you received for academic, school, or community activities beginning in the 7th grade
• High Honor Roll (9th-10th)
• National Honor Society (NHS) Inductee (10th)
• FBLA Leadership Team (selected Reporter) (10th)
• 2025 State Champion Speech Team (9th)
• 2025 State Speech Qualifier (9th)
• Runner-Up, 2026 Cheer Gameday Competition (10th)
• Varsity Letter in Cheer (10th)
• Varsity Letter in Choir (9th)
Youth Leadership Tomorrow (YLT) – Accepted Participant (10th)
Have you participated in extracurricular activities or organizations? – Yes
Please list, in order of importance to you, any school, religious, social, athletic, hobbies or other activities or organizations which you have participated in since the 7th grade
1. Speech (9th–10th)
2. FBLA & FBLA Leadership Team (9th–10th)
3. National Honor Society (10th)
4. Mock Trial (9th–10th)
5. Interact Club (10th)
6. Journalism (9th–10th)
7. Third City Christian Church Sophomore Group (10th)
8. Cheer (10th)
9. Choir (9th)
10. Musical (9th)
11. Piano (3rd-10th)
12. Cross Country (8th)
13. Basketball (8th)
14. Volleyball (7th)
15. Track (7th)