What have been some of your most memorable moments over the last four years at WHSAD?
One of my most memorable experiences at WHSAD was going on school trips. Some of my favorites include Snug Harbor, Greenbelt, roller skating, and sightseeing adventures. But one moment that always makes me laugh was the time my friends and I hosted a bake sale in the cafeteria. I was in charge of handling the money, and things quickly became chaotic as students crowded around me, waving dollar bills in my face. We had baked cookies, pumpkin bread, cupcakes, and cake pops, and the staff loved our treats. We ended up raising a lot of money that day. It was hectic but fun, running up and down the stairs, selling to both students and teachers. After all our hard work, we sat down and enjoyed the leftover homemade goodies together.
What are your plans for life after high school? Why do you feel this is the best option for your at this time?
My plans for life after high school is to work closely in the business, specifically in consumer trends which I will pursue in New York. I always had a passion for New York City’s fast pace of life, as I often grow bored of repetitiveness. With something exciting and different every day it is easier to stay on track of my motivations and goals. I feel like this is going to be the best option for me at the time since I already live here, and know of this fast paced life that seems to keep everyone on their toes.
What are some words of advice you would give to younger students?
My advice for younger students is to truly trust in yourself. What dreams do you have? How will you achieve them? Any dream is possible with enough passion and drive. Don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes; they’re part of the journey and help you grow stronger. Surround yourself with people who believe in you but also learn to believe in yourself when no one else does. Stay curious, ask questions, and never stop learning, even outside the classroom. Most importantly, be patient with your progress; success takes time, and every small step matters.
Where do you want to see yourself five, ten, and thirty years from now?
5 years from now I will be fresh out of college. Now that the trial period of adulthood is over at this point, I would like to believe I will have more wisdom and a better understanding of who I am. I know I am a person who cannot stay in one place at a time with the hopes of traveling more to other countries. I know that I enjoy the arts. Reading, baking and painting is something I hope to still be a part of me. With my best friend from high school still by my side, we will continue to witness each other evolve, just as we have from our teenage years to now, navigating adulthood together. I hope we’ll celebrate not just our accomplishments, but also the quiet victories such as healing, growing, and staying true to ourselves. In this new chapter, I envision us chasing dreams, learning from setbacks, and building lives that feel authentic and fulfilling.
Who has been one person you’d like to thank for support, encouragement, love, etc.?
I’d like to thank my grandmother, who was the one to recommend I attend WHSAD. With her background in real estate, she was excited to discover a school focused on architecture and thought it would be a great fit for me. At the time, I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I agreed and through this journey, I discovered my true passion lies in the arts. She supported me every step of the way, always staying on top of the details, emailing teachers on my behalf, and checking in to ask how my day went. Her support and encouragement inspired me to keep pursuing what I love.