I think Ellen ochoa is a hero because she worked very hard and showed a good example for her fans . 
   In the story it says , When she was growing up her mother always told them to do well in school so they can be what ever they wanted to be .Thats why Ellen did so well in school .
 Also in the story it says Ellen did well in all of her classes . Ellen was the top student in her class .Ellen was very smart .
 Lastly in the story it says Ellen was a great math student . Most people did not think girls were good math students but she did not let those people hinder her learning because she is a an acheiver. 
 The author wrote this story to inform us about Ellen's life and what you should do at school . This reminds me of when I was a hero because I saved my sister from falling down the stairs just like Ellen Ochoa is a hero.