February Newsletter
A Message from Nayeli Rivera
Hi! My name is Nayeli Rivera, and I’m a senior at HSA, a place that has truly become my second home. I’ve been part of the HSA community for 11 years, and during that time, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined—academically, personally, and emotionally. Being involved in softball, being team manager for basketball, and being part of the ambassador team has helped me step out of my comfort zone, build confidence and leadership skills, and form meaningful relationships that I’ll always carry with me.
One of the things I enjoy most about HSA is the supportive environment. The teachers truly care about students’ success, and the community feels like a family. HSA has pushed me to challenge myself and try new things.
Moving into the new building has been truly special. It feels like a new beginning at the same time as a meaningful goodbye. Being able to complete my final year in a new space has made this chapter of my life even more memorable.
Overall, HSA has played a huge role in shaping who I am today, and I’m grateful for the experiences, friendships, and lessons I’ll carry with me beyond graduation.
An Opportunity of a Lifetime
Mr. Hernandez has launched a fundraising campaign for the students in his CYSP group to support their 7-day educational trip to Spain in Summer 2026. For many students, this will be their first time on a plane, leaving Chicago, and experiencing life beyond their neighborhoods.
CYSP helps students grow academically, socially, and personally through leadership, community service, and educational adventures. This trip offers hands-on learning in Spanish culture, history, language, and traditions, broadening perspectives, building independence, and creating lasting memories.
Your support helps open the world to our young scholars. Please consider donating or sharing their campaign.
Michael Zamudio
Meet Michael Zamudio, a proud graduate of HSA McKinley, whose path proves that big goals can start in small classrooms.
Michael continued his education at DePaul University, where he earned a BS in Accounting with a concentration in Internal Audit, followed by a Master’s in Taxation. A self-described “double Demon,” he built a strong academic foundation while preparing for the realities of a demanding profession.
In January 2026, Michael began his career as a Tax Associate in the Real Estate Practice at PwC. His role places him at the intersection of technical tax knowledge and real-world business strategy an area that perfectly aligns with his interest in complexity and continuous learning.
Before joining PwC, Michael gained valuable experience as an Audit Intern at EY, where he developed a deeper understanding of client service, teamwork, and professional standards within a large corporate environment.
One of Michael’s greatest strengths is resilience. Growing up in a small school and community and later attending a mid-sized university prepared him well, but nothing quite compares to transitioning into a corporate environment where training cohorts can include 700+ professionals. Embracing that shift has been a defining part of his growth, reinforcing his adaptability and confidence.
Michael was drawn to accounting and tax for its ever changing nature. The work is complex, interactive, and constantly evolving requiring professionals to learn, adapt, and think critically year after year. That challenge is exactly what keeps him engaged.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys traveling and trying new experiences, always looking for ways to explore, learn, and grow both personally and professionally.
From a small school community to the global stage of the Big 4, Michael’s journey is a reminder that where you start doesn’t limit where you can go.
As Michael begins this next chapter of his career, he is thrilled to officially start his professional journey and excited to see where it will take him. Joining the Big 4 represents more than a milestone it’s the start of a path filled with learning, challenge, and opportunity.
Michael approaches this stage with curiosity and purpose, knowing that success isn’t about having everything figured out from day one, but about showing up ready to learn, adapt, and grow. He looks forward to sharpening his technical skills, building meaningful professional relationships, and continuing to evolve in a field that never stands still.
His journey serves as a reminder to current students and young professionals that no starting point is too small, and no goal is out of reach with resilience, consistency, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. What matters most is staying open to growth and trusting the process because the path forward often leads to places you never imagined.
