Leading by Example: Dino Hidalgo Earns Scholarship Through New SMPREP-Portland Partnership

For Saint Monica Preparatory senior Dino Hidalgo, the road to graduation has been marked by resilience, determination and a commitment to helping others succeed alongside him.

This fall, Dino will attend the University of Portland to study Electrical Engineering, as the first student to participate in the University's new pathway partnership with SMPREP, earning guaranteed admission and a four-year scholarship in recognition of his academic achievements and the rigor of his Catholic education. Behind this achievement is a story of perseverance. Having faced significant personal loss and adversity during his high school years, Dino remained focused on his education while embracing opportunities to serve his school community. Rather than allowing challenges to define him, he chose to invest in others, becoming a dedicated student leader in SMPREP's growing peer tutoring program.

Created by Academic and College Counselor Christina Mollison, the tutoring initiative now includes more than 50 Upper School students who mentor and support younger Mariners across TK-12. Dino spends several days each week working with sixth-grade math students, helping them build confidence while discovering the learning strategies that work best for them.

"When I was their age, I would see my classmates understand something so easily while it took me much longer to learn it, which brought me down," Dino reflects. "I learned that I just had to find the best way for me to learn. Once I figured that out, I was able to succeed in my classes, and that's what I want for them."

His approach goes beyond solving equations. Through mentoring younger Mariners, he has grown as a leader and role model.

"It means a lot to me helping these sixth graders with math because not everyone learns the same way," he says. "Sometimes hearing something explained differently or learning it in a different way works better for one student than another. Helping these kids find the best way they can learn something is a skill I like to teach them. Being a tutor has shaped me as a leader because now I have to look at myself and realize that I'm the example. I have to set a good example for the sixth graders so they can see what they can become and even more if they stay focused and pay attention in class. This experience is helping me learn how to represent myself well in school, work and life."

Mollison has watched Dino's growth firsthand and sees his selection as the first SMPREP student in the University of Portland partnership as a fitting recognition of his character and contributions. "Dino embodies what we hope all of our students gain from their Saint Monica experience," says Mollison. "He has overcome challenges with remarkable perseverance, while consistently looking for ways to support others. His willingness to mentor younger students, share his gifts and lead by example has made a lasting impact on our community."

Mollison encouraged Dino and his uncle, who serves as his guardian, to explore the University of Portland opportunity when the partnership was announced.

"I couldn't be happier for Dino," she says. "To see him become the first student to take advantage of this new pathway program is incredibly meaningful. He has worked hard for this opportunity, and I know he will continue making a difference wherever he goes."

As he prepares to leave Los Angeles for Portland, Dino is excited for the next chapter, including the opportunity to experience a new city, continue his education and build new relationships. He leaves a powerful message behind at Saint Monica Preparatory: success is not measured solely by personal achievement, but by the willingness to lift others along the way.