OSZ Influencer of the Week: Alexa Cosme, Horizon West Middle School

Alexa Cosme is the eighth-grade professional school counselor at Horizon West Middle School and the recipient of the 2022 Endeavor Award. According to the American School Counselor Association, school counselors create school counseling programs based on three sets of standards that define the profession. These standards help school counselors develop, implement and assess their school counseling program to improve student outcomes. 

What brought you to your school?

I had attended a conference where our past lead counselor was presenting, and her program/school seemed like a great place to work. I also attended the University of Central Florida and saw there were other UCF counselors on our campus, so I was so excited to interview and get accepted to be at Horizon West Middle School.

What do you love most about your school?

I really love the work environment. My co-school counselors that I collaboratively work with are one of my favorite parts of my school.

What is your motivation?

Being able to work with students and help them go through middle school. It drives me to also know that I hope I am making any difference big or small.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part is when I can see that students are feeling better or can express their emotions in their own way. Being able to chat and meet with students daily is one of the best parts of my job and I look forward to it.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to go to farmers markets, cuddle with my dog and buy house plants or garden.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher when I was in school was either my first-grade teacher Ms. Patterson or my senior year AP literature teacher Ms. Vivan. Both teachers were inspiring women who constantly spoke with their students and engaged with us. I will always be grateful for them.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

I wanted to be a travel writer. I enjoyed trying new things and watching “The Wild Thornberrys,” as well. I have always been driven to write all different types of stories, reviews, etc.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book is “Goodnight Moon.” I read that constantly growing up.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are finding tasty coffee, gardening, going to barre/being active.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Teleportation, so that I can snap my fingers and be anywhere at any time.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

Coldplay, Lorde … There are so many to choose from.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

Swiss Cake Rolls, Fruit Roll-Ups or nacho Lunchables.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love Thanksgiving, because I get to be with family, watch the Macy’s Parade and eat a lot of good food.

What did it mean to you to win the Endeavor Award? 

I am so beyond grateful that I received the award. It was so rewarding to feel that I have been able to make an impact on these students and families that we work with. Being recognized for an award as such is something that made my year.