Describe your feelings about earning this outstanding award? 

• I am very grateful and honored to have earned this award. It definitely was not an easy accomplishment, but I believe that it is well worth the countless late nights of studying.

Which teacher/educator has been most influential in your academic success?

• I cannot choose just one teacher to answer this question. I have had many teachers who have all shaped me into the student that I am today. However, the first teacher that gave me a challenge was my third grade teacher, Miss Brownlee. She taught me that I was capable of more than I thought I was, and for that I am grateful. She made me realize that hard work truly does pay off.

Outside of education who has been your mentor, or biggest influence?

• My family has been the greatest influence on the person that I am today. However, the person who inspired what I want to do for the rest of my life is a family friend named Herline Raphael. Herline is a nurse practitioner who opened up a free health clinic in Haiti. Working alongside her at various volunteering events and hearing her stories from her mission trips inspired me. I now have plan to go to medical school and become a doctor that travels around the world to developing countries, providing service to those who are less fortunate.

What other award have you received throughout high school that you are most proud of?

• A different award that I am most proud of came from one of my outside of school activities. Last year I earned my black belt in Taekwondo after many years of hard work. Finishing my black belt test was an extremely rewarding experience. I am also most proud of earning second place at FBLA States this year in Public Service Announcement, with my partners Vasilia Briegel and Hana Weiss. We are all thrilled about going to FBLA Nationals this year!

What are your favorite hobbies, why do you enjoy them?

• I love watching movies in my free time because it typically requires little to no thinking. I know that might sound odd coming from me, but everyone needs to relax sometimes. Watching movies is how I unwind when I need a break. Another favorite hobby of mine is playing my instruments in ensembles. I really love music, and getting to play alongside my friends brings me a lot of joy.

What is your favorite high school memory?

• My favorite high school memory was performing the Greatest Showman as one of our combined pieces at the Hall of Fame concert this year.

What advice can you give SHS underclassmen?

• Don’t sell yourself short. If you work hard, you might just surprise yourself!

Is there anything additional you would like to add?

• Your senior year will fly by. Make sure that you make time for friends and family. Academics and extracurricular activities are important, but you need time to relax as well so that you don’t burn out. Your health comes before everything else.