1) What has been your biggest disappointment/hardship since schools have been closed for the remainder of the academic year?

The biggest disappointment for me as a result of school closures is the ability to finish out my senior year with my classmates. I was really looking forward to senior events such as the all night grad party, prom, and graduation. It has also been a huge disappointment that I was unable to participate in any crew regattas/races in my final year of rowing on the Westfield Crew Team, an organization that means a lot to me and has helped me grow into a better and healthier person these past four years. 

2) What are your plans for the fall?

I plan to attend college. However, I have not made a decision as to where. I hope to major in broadcast journalism.

3) How have your plans changed, if at all?

My plans have mostly stayed the same, but the colleges I am deciding between have extended their deposit due dates so I have more time to decide which college is the best fit for me.

4) What have you learned about yourself since the COVID-19 closures?

Since the COVID-19 closures, I have learned that I need to have activity in my life in order to reduce stress, which has been higher during this uncertain time. For example, I have found ways to stay active by completing workout videos and taking long bike rides throughout my neighborhood trails. I have also learned that expanding my creativity through painting and videography is a great way to keep my mind at ease.

5) What is your passion?

My passion has been sharing stories through videography and writing ever since I was younger. I loved to be on and behind the camera and I continue to do so on my Youtube channel, where I create videos to share my experiences with my friends, family, and subscribers. I also love to write, as it allows me to express my creativity freely through stories or journaling. 

6) Have you discovered a new passion in light of social distancing?

In light of social distancing, I have also rediscovered my passion for the outdoors. With more free time, I have been able to spend my time outside walking, biking, and fishing by myself and with my family, whom I have also been able to spend more time with.

7) What are your hopes for the future?

I hope to find the college that is right for me and my future career as a broadcast journalist. 

8) Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you? 

When I first entered FCPS in 2009, I had just moved from New Zealand and I was very nervous to start at a new school in an unfamiliar place. However, the wonderful staff and students made me feel welcome and comfortable, and I will be forever grateful for that. I have grown and changed so much as a person due to the many amazing teachers and classmates I have encountered along my schooling journey. Thank you!

9) What are you most proud of about your school experience/best memory?

Rowing for my high school has easily become one of my most unforgettable experiences during school. As a result, my proudest moment was being elected as one of the captains of the Westfield Crew Team for two years in a row. As a captain, I was able to provide encouragement and positivity to my teammates while participating in such a unique and difficult sport. I also learned how to lead and work well with other captains to ensure the success of our team.