What are your hopes for the future?

“I hope to graduate, go to a college, and pursue my dreams and find a job, but I haven’t discovered my passion yet.”

What are you interested in?

“I like history, but I don’t think it’s applicable to me. I like art, but I don’t want to be a starving artist. I’m interested in genetics and biology; they pave the way for the future.”

What extracurriculars did you do throughout high school?

“I’m in National Art Honors Society, NHS, now the Museum ambassador, and Leadership Challenge. I was in Key Club.”

What was your favorite class?

“Art. Mr. Wilson has helped me grow as a person and get good in art. I really enjoy Biology. Mr. Cuomo is a really down to earth, no nonsense guy who knows how to have fun and make a class interesting. He makes me feel like I’m in a college class.”

What art projects do you like?

“I’m in ceramics right now, I just recently made a slab pot. I like drawing and working on shading techniques. I like dramatic contrast. I like painting, but it’s hard. Learning how to incorporate shapes in painting is hard. But I like oil pastel and chalk pastel.”

What are your aspirations for this swim season?

“I was injured last year. But I’m back in the saddle and working really hard to get back to where I was so I can help my team because we’re just a big family who wants to do well. I’m going to put my best foot forward for them.”

What are some fond memories of swimming?

“Singing ‘Living on a Prayer’ while we’re halfway through a set and falling in the pool. I love seeing people cheer for me in a 500. I work hard for the well-being of the team, despite being called a ‘try-hard.’ Respect the game even if the game tries to beat you down.”

As a leader, what is your advice to underclassmen?

“If people decide to look up to me, my best advice is to be who you are. People are going to drag you down for being different, but always stay true to yourself. In my Freshmen year, I faced some people who were mean to me. But the kids here at WHS are generally really great people. If you’re kind to someone, they’ll be kind to you. Set a good example; everyone deserves to be the best they can be. People need to learn to not try to hurt each other, but make each other better because we want progress in the world.”

Any other reflections on your high school career?

“I had a really good high school experience. I’ve had some great teachers. And some not-so-great teachers, but they’re usually good people. I’ve made great friends who stay by my side. My freshman year, going into a WHS, it seemed so hard to go to such a big place. But as I’m leaving, I notice it all seems so small. And I can’t believe it’s already been four years. I’ve learned so much and moved forward. Underclassmen: be you; don’t try to be anyone else; aspire to change the world or someone else’s life. I used to be shy. Now I’m talkative and crazy. And I don’t mind if people think I’m weird or out-there. We’ve got such a great school. Take pride in it.”