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

I was especially looking forward to my spring track season, as well as all the many perks and treats that come with being a senior, such as prom and graduation. It is still a little tough to have the year, and consequently, all these moments taken away. What especially stings, is the abrupt end to the school year without the chance to give a proper good-bye to all my teachers, classmates, counselors, and more.

2) What are your plans for the fall?

I'm planning to attend Harvard University, where I intend to major in government with a focus on international relations. 

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

As of now, I am still planning to attend school on campus, but I am fully aware of the growing potential of an online start, or other modifications to the school year. 

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

The COVID-19 closures have forced me to spend a lot of time with myself, and it has been cathartic for me to spend my time doing things I find joy in. I have realized how resilient I am, and all those that surround me, in coping with these closures. I've noticed that everyone has become incredibly creative in this time apart, whether it be in pursuing activities such as baking or art, to thinking up ways that circumvent the limitations of the virus. We have entered a state of a new normal, and while there is still a lot of sadness over what has been lost, the flexibility and resourcefulness shown during this inopportune time is absolutely remarkable.

5) What is your passion?

A simplification is that I am passionate about self-improvement and working towards the betterment of others. I am incredibly interested in learning new skills and practices, and I am continually working towards strengthening my existing skills. These include activities such as reading, art, languages, and more. I especially love putting these skills to use and helping others with them. 

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

I have discovered that I really enjoy spending time outdoors, and I have taken to going on really long (socially-distant) walks. More so, this pandemic has given me the time to hone in on my existing passions and dedicate more of myself to them.

7) What are your hopes for the future?

Right now, I am looking forward to college, and I am excited about everything that the opportunity entails. I am also sincerely looking forward to the day that I can go back to spending time with my friends, and all those in my life that mean so much to me.  

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

It is hard for me to distinguish one memory or experience above all the others, especially with so many of the amazing teachers, pep rallies, classmates, homecomings, football games, and experiences I have been fortunate enough to have had. With all of these moments playing like a highlight reel in my mind, the very best moments of my high school experience also happen to be the most mundane. I cannot express how much appreciation I feel for the lunches I've shared with classmates in tucked-away classrooms, the firecracker discussions with desks in a circle, and my daily trudge to the track for practice. I consider myself lucky for all these experiences, and I could not be any prouder of the Class of 2020 for all that we have achieved.