A Legacy Continued: Daniel Finds His Own Path at PCR
- jhood1133
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
When freshman Daniel Garcia arrived at Providence Cristo Rey High School, it already felt a little like home. As the youngest in a proud Providence family (his brother Marco (‘24) and sister Ximena (‘27) both walked the same halls) Daniel had seen firsthand what PCR was all about.
“My siblings went here,” he said with a grin. “My sister was doing really well, and my mom was already involved. It felt right, like this was the place where I could start fresh.”That fresh start was something Daniel needed. “Middle school was rough,” he admitted. “I was known as the ‘smart kid,’ but I started losing confidence. I cared too much about fitting in, and I wasn’t doing my best.”
At Providence Cristo Rey, he’s found a new environment: one that encourages him to take pride in his abilities and grow in faith, confidence, and purpose.
Finding His Place
Daniel quickly dove into school life, joining soccer and the gaming club. He also got involved with the photography club and became involved in peer ministry, where he helps lead prayer and reflection for his classmates. He plans to further his involvement and join additional clubs and sports such as Student Council and Wrestling.
“I like learning about God and being surrounded by prayer. It helps me stay focused and reminds me why I’m here.”
“Peer Ministry has been my favorite,” he said. “I like learning about God and being surrounded by prayer. It helps me stay focused and reminds me why I’m here.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Having an older sibling at Providence means Daniel never has to walk alone. “It’s pretty amazing,” he said. “My sister helps me when I’m unsure about something. She knows what’s right and wrong, and she keeps me on track.”
That sense of support and accountability has helped him mature quickly, both as a student and as a leader. “Since my first day, I’ve felt like I can reach my full potential here,” he said. “The teachers believe in you, and they help you go after higher goals.”
Learning from Work and the World
Through the Corporate Work Study Program, Daniel works at August Mack Environmental. “I do research on projects and their outcomes,” he explained. “It’s real work. Professional expectations, deadlines, and learning how to take risks.” He says the experience has already made him more responsible and self-aware.
“You learn respect,” he said. “You learn how to show up, meet expectations, and handle yourself in a professional environment.”
Faith, Family, and Focus
In the classroom, Theology is Daniel’s favorite subject. “I just love it,” he said. “It’s a chance to learn more about God and how to live with purpose.”
Spanish, on the other hand, is a challenge, but one he’s learning to manage. “The work isn’t too hard,” he said with a laugh, “but I can get distracted sometimes. I’m working on that.”
Transitioning from middle school wasn’t easy at first, but Daniel says Providence’s small community made it easier to find his footing.
“It was new. New school, new people… But I found my friend group and I’m very proud of that,” he said. “The classes are harder, but I’ve learned how to manage my time.”
“It was new. New school, new people… But I found my friend group and I’m very proud of that,”
A Dream for the Future
Ask Daniel about his future, and he doesn’t hesitate.
“Mayor, Governor, President!” he said confidently. “I just love learning about the presidents and U.S. History. It’s so interesting.”
It’s clear that Daniel’s dreams are as big as his heart, and he has no shortage of people cheering him on. “My mom, my sister, and my dad inspire me the most,” he said. “They’ve always wanted what’s best for us. Even if you’re not great at something, they tell us to try our hardest. They just want us to be the best we can be.”
Words to Live By
If Daniel could give advice to future Providence students, it would be simple:
“Always do your work – this isn’t middle school,” he said, smiling. “And always be involved with something. The more you do, the more you grow.”
