Ready for What's Next

Story by Senna James, Shadow Ridge High School Journalism student

Countless nights for the past four years have been spent studying, writing, volunteering, preparing, and striving towards the best possible future. The dream has always been an Ivy League University and now the time has come where high school is about to end. Over the summer before senior year, Shadow Ridge High School Senior Marissa LeLevier seized the opportunity of attending a Harvard class.

Throughout LeLevier’s high school career she maintained a 4.0 grade point average and will graduate at the top of her class at Shadow Ridge. Not only that, but she had also participated in multiple clubs, sports, and had over 200 hours of community service. “By being active in our community and within our high school, I hope to show I am well-rounded and a great fit for a university like Harvard,” said LeLevier. Prepping college applications and resumes proved to be harder than it seemed. “While these activities will help me during the application process, it can get stressful. I am constantly busy as well as trying to balance my social life and mental health. It requires an abundance of discipline and motivation,” said LeLevier. Yet, she always kept her eyes on her goal and future and remembered why she is working so hard. “There are times where I get into a slump but it’s important I always keep pushing. This is my dream and the life I want so that’s why I’ve managed to make it this far,” said LeLevier.

Towards the beginning of high school, LeLevier had envisioned herself attending the University of California San Diego or New York University. No school like Harvard was seen as realistic in her eyes, however the email inviting LeLevier to apply to the summer session had changed her view. “When I was accepted, I was ecstatic. I met amazing people and professors that summer and it made me realize that the Harvard environment was where I wanted to spend the next four years,” said LeLevier. She planned on becoming a neonatal surgeon which needs an undergraduate degree from a university and then years in medical school. “If I attend a prestigious university during undergraduate, then I’ll be opening doors to better opportunities down the road,” said LeLevier.

Overall the summer insight into the potential of LeLevier’s new life was critical for her own understanding. “At Harvard University, I learned how to adapt to a new environment. The vibe on campus is completely different than here. I also had to learn the city, which is again very different from Arizona.” said LeLevier.

The time in Massachusetts was not only a learning moment in the classroom but also in everyday life. “I benefited by gaining experience living on my own and being solely responsible for my coursework. I would say my time at Harvard University pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to take on new opportunities,” said LeLevier.