Laura Zhou ‘22

University of California, Berkeley ‘26

How did you get interested in the arts?

I’m interested in visual arts because there are artists in my family from my father’s side. I grew up seeing their creative processes and interacted with different people in the industry. I started playing the violin because my sister plays piano and I wanted to be able to collaborate with her.

How have the arts become an important part of your life?

Going to a museum, listening to music, and playing the violin are ways that can slow down my pace. We are often busy with school or work, which doesn’t really allow us a space to breathe or reflect on our own feelings. Engaging with art gives me the opportunity to face inwards and recharge before returning to my daily routine. When I stand in front of a work of art created thousands or hundreds of years ago, none of the things that “trouble” me matter anymore. Art is a form of meditation and a reminder of the insignificance of many little things in life.

What advice do you have for students with a lot of interests?

Follow your heart and do what interests you, even when you are not sure if you want to do that for a long period of time. Just give it a try, knowing you may or may not like it. You would never know how much you love (or actually dislike) something. Through this process, you will discover things that you have great passion, talent, and interest in. Your interest will be the force that wakes you up everyday through school and work in the f uture.

Describe your PRS experience in 3 words:

Engaging, caring, and inquisitive

What was your most valuable experience at Pacific Ridge?

My experience at PRS as a whole shaped me. There wasn’t a specific instance that was “life-changing,” but every little moment I spent in the classroom and around my peers made me who I am today. These experiences taught me how to be a better leader, communicator, and team player.