Journey 2024

JOURNEY

CELEBRATING MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2024 FROM LOCAL HIGH SCHOOLS

Oh, the Places Your Journey Will Take You...

Grad uation's a day

A great day to say, "Hey! You 've do ne it aga in It's you for the win!”

As you don your cap and run a victory lap with your gown like a cape around your neck's na pe The crowd will go wild to see you move from a c hild to a grown-u p who's grown-up And m akes parents smile Don't mind their tears

Mom and Da d have no fears

That you'll be a wi nner (Just c om e home for dinner!)

Take this trac k or t ha t trac k? Know we’ll have your ba ck

Never have doubt

Just make the journey count.

S.STRICKLAND

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL

Chase

Skylar

Madalynn

Chirayu

Austin

Brandon

Demi

Ella

Genesis

Jackson

Joshua

Marcaila

Leticia

Anayeli Soto-Cerro Joshua

Lola

Jarelis

Tyler

Kylie

Logan James Webb

Aahmyyah Grace White

Asia Nicole White

Austin Parker White

Natalee Rose Whitman

Andrew Michael Whittaker

Aubrey Elizabeth Wilkerson

Ciyanna Sabina Williams

Steven Joseph Williams

Tori Elise Williams

Allen Trapnell Vicky Maritza Trejo Alani Eliana Trinidad Katana Ann Trowbridge

Ana-Milagros Trujillo

Alexa Jacquelynn Tumolo Dylan Patrick Tuvell Yamor Simone Uludag Jeremiah Austin Uzzell

Marie Valdez Brooke Alison Valent

Gene Van Dorn Kasey Rosandra Vanvalkinburg John Blase Varas III Luis Tristan Velazquez

Vanessa Briana Velez Thalia Villaseñor

Sophie Danielle Villon

Emma Grace Vinson

Andrew James Walls

Ethan R Ward

Christopher Wyatt Walmsley

Gary Donald Walterson

Zackery Fred Ward

Lexy Amber Watson

Mckayla Kiana Watson Savannah Rose Weaver

Madison Emma Willoughby

Aleksandra Liselle Wilson

Brooke Michael Wilson

Dylan Hensley Wilson

Jeremiah Alberto Wilson

Morgan Rae Wilson

Raley Kaye Wilson

Connor Brian Windell

Rachel Michelle Winkleman Mason Wayne Wise

Samuel Arthur Wold

Koran Christopher Wright

Malaina Grace Wright

Anelise Mae Wyatt

Carson Bryce Wynn

Aaliyah Imani Yates

Gavin Bryce Young

Hailey Rene Zeller

Alexa Yamile ZepedaSandoval

Zachary Hussein Zreik

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL

When did you nd out you are your classes’ valedictorian? How did you react?

Going into my freshman year of high school, I was ranked #4 of my class. From there, I was motivated to take more courses to reach the top. When I entered my sophomore year of high school, I found that that my transcript stated that I was #1 of my class. Since then, I have maintained my grade point average to eventually be named valedictorian. When given this title, it did not feel real as I was living through this continuous journey. Over time, the immense support and “congratulations” made the title feel real and it has been an honor representing my class.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

Before entering high school, I wish that I could tell freshman Shelina to enjoy every moment while it lasts. Although my schedule was hectic, it took time to learn the importance of living in the present and understanding the feelings of it all. I am very grateful for all of the experiences as I have made the most of them through trial and error. I would not want to live through this journey any other way.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was de nitely the day of my Hillsborough Community College graduation. Not only was this a signi cant moment to acknowl-

When did you nd out you are your classes’ salutatorian? How did you react?

I found out that it was o cial when I got called to the principal’s o ce in mid-February. Mr. Graham called me and my Valedictorian up on the same day, and as soon as I saw her when I walked in, I knew what was happening. Honestly, I felt a wave of relief pass over me since I had been working towards this goal for nearly four years. I was also extremely excited, and I texted my parents the good news right away!

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

I wish I had known how quickly the time would pass by. Obviously, everyone tells you that high school goes by in the blink of an eye, but I never listened, and I always just assumed it would feel like a lifetime of walking the halls of Durant High School. It truly did go by so fast, and I’m grateful to move onto the next chapter of my life, but I also nd myself wishing that I had appreciated the high school experience more and really taken it all in.

What is your favorite high school memory?

I have so many good memories from high school, but I think that spirit week over the past four years has been my absolute favorite. I love dressing up for each theme and showing my sense of humor through my costumes. I’ve worn inatable Mr. Potato Head, in atable Patrick Star, an in atable Minion, and even an in atable “bull rider”

edge my continuous hard work, but it was also a joyous moment where all of my supporting families were there for me. They demonstrated the importance of being there for the big accomplishments in life that cannot go unnoticed.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

-The most important lesson I learned is to be myself. Changing for others for them to accept you is the wrong way to enjoy life, because you are not your true self through it all. I have learned that the di erences between everyone is what makes life so memorable and precious. I continue to embrace who I am and will one day show the world that regardless of who you are, you can make an impact.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

-Throughout high school, I have been the President of AVID, the President of the Go Green Club, and a member of the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. My favorite extracurricular to participate in was AVID. Over the past six years, AVID has been the program where I fully express myself and work towards my future goals. It has uplifted me and paved the way for my academic journey.

costume. I won Most School Spirit in our Senior Superlatives which felt really awesome, because I love Durant and being spirited during dress up days and football games.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

One frequent refrain of my late agriculture teacher, Mr. Cribbs, was that “winning isn’t everything, but trying to is.” From the rst time I heard him say it to a team competing in the district Forestry contest, it became my motto for life. You won’t always be able to win, or be the smartest in the room, but you can always strive to be the best version of yourself, which is a win in and of itself. This saying helped me stop comparing myself to others, whether it was academically or in any other way, and it served as an important reminder for me when I got too swept up in wanting to be the best instead of being the best version of myself.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

I was a member of many clubs and organizations in high school, such as National Honors Society, Science National Honors Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. While I appreciated all of the opportunities I had to get involved, my favorite was easily being a member and o cer of the Durant FFA Chapter. Through FFA, I have had the opportunity to establish a cattle operation with my family, as well as participate in

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

After high school graduation, I plan on attending the University of South Florida in the fall, where I will be double majoring in Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences with Biological Health Sciences and Health Care Administration Concentration. Furthermore, I see myself continuing my education at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, aspiring to become a Physician Assistant or Pediatrician.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

A person’s school career only comes once in their life. Maintaining one’s grades is a mental challenge. Throughout this challenge, the student needs support and motivation to overcome it. Therefore, I advise students to surround themselves by a group of people who only cheer them on and support them through everything. Additionally, taking advantage of the tutoring opportunities provided is crucial, as there is no shame in getting help from others to reach success.

a multitude of Career and Leadership Development Events and make friends from across the state of Florida (and the country!) I am forever indebted to the National FFA Organization for shaping me into the person I am today and for instilling in me a passion for American agriculture.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

After graduation, I will be taking a gap year of service as I was recently selected as a Presidential Candidate for the 2024-2025 Florida FFA Association State o cer team. Once my year of service ends, I will be attending the University of Florida to major in Microbiology and Cell Science! Upon nishing my undergraduate studies, I would like to attend medical school (ideally at the University of Michigan), and eventually become a cardiothoracic surgeon with a specialization in congenital heart defects.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

It is so important to take time for yourself when you are taking di cult classes (or 11 classes a semester, like I did!) Relaxing and picking up a good book or going to the beach with your friends is a great way to give yourself a break and come back to your schoolwork with a refreshed sense of motivation and willingness to learn. If you don’t take time for yourself, you will burn out, and it isn’t easy to get out of that feeling. Relaxation is productive for your brain!

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL

Florencio Rosales-Borja Jr.

Osvaldo Rosales-Espinoza

Kaylin Grace Ross

Abigail Adrianna Rubalcaba

Gabriela Ruiz

Jacqueline Ruiz

Juan Angel Ruiz-Contreras

Yaribell Marie Ruiz Narvaez

Angel Jesus Salgado

Leonel Salmeron-Blas

Kaleigh Ann Salmon

Nathaniel Reid Sammarco

Sadie Rose Sanchez

Brianna Celia SanchezChannel

Jennifer Sanchez-Martinez

Marlene Santamaria-Angon

Emily Santamaria-Duarte

Jolie Skye Santiago

Jonathan Santiago-Gomez

Jennifer Santiago-Hernandez

Joseph Antonio Luis Santos

Eddie Santoy

Hannah Rachelle Scanlon

Makenna Solveig Schmitz

Caris Jordan Schneider

Stephanie Amanda Seitz

Camron Chase Seriel

Chloe Dayle Shinneman

Zachary Hunter Shores

Michael Joseph Siebenthal

Kiera Abigail Sigala

Cameryn Grace Smith

Hailey Danielle Smith

Kallie Anne Smith

Kamilah Nicole Smith

Trae’veon Ma’honey Smith

Tranadia Kaché Smith

Mario Alberto Solis

Eddie Osman Solis-Pineda

Cameron Thomas Sorah

Sebastian Sosa-Perez

Alynnah Lizbeth Soto

Rivera

Jose Daniel Velasco-Hernandez

Daniel Geraldo Veliz

Mia Gloria Vera

Abilenne Vergara-Najera

Hannah Marie Vescovo

Jordanny Vicente-Cortes

Rita Nallely Villafranca Torres

Kelley Isabel Villanueva

Leonardo Villicana

Michael Thomas Villorin

Fiona Katherine Vo

Silas Mitchell Tankersley

Logan James Taylor

Nathen Dale Taylor

Jadah Lynn Terrell

Sakura Reign Thorsen

Shelby Nicole Tomasina

Elizabeth Toribio-Alvarado

Giomar Onex Toro Adamari Torres Jazlyn Marie Torres

Rubi Annahi Torres

Raymond Yadiel Torres Burgos

Jeremy Torres Camacho

Samuel Esteban TorresGomez

Nikolai Jennings Townsend

Bach Nguyen Tran Yocelin Trejo

Jose Angel Trejo-Ponce

Esteban Trejo-Torres Jr. Klytie Ann Turner

Kayleigh Anna Vandyke

Stephanie Vargas

Vanessa Grace Varnum

Ashley Yaretzi Vasquez

Alexa Lisette VazquezCortez

Yoeseph Yaxier Vazquez

Elijah Gonzalez Vongdachan

Tatsuya James Wagner

Erykah Shawnnece Washington

Jason Thomas Watson

Katelyn Ashlee Watson

Serenity Nichole Welch

Kayden Marie West

Rylah Lynn Westfall

Bella Rae Wheaton

Brayden Frank Whitaker

Alissa Kaitlyn White

Trenton Randall White

Michelle Elizabeth Whitehead

Chiara Vanine Williams

Jaden Angel Williams

Tyler Raymon Williams

Trevor Andrew Williamson

Haley Marie Wilson

Kye’ron Sincere Wilson

Hailey Renee Witt

Kooper Ray Yacinich

Vincent Yang

Jamira Ariela Young

Ruby Zapata-Solano

Marissa Zarate

Jared Aimar Zurita

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL

When did you nd out you are your classes’ valedictorian? How did you react?

The way I found out I was valedictorian was in a very unorthodox way to say the least. I ended up nding out though my peers which honestly took me by surprise considering that I liked to keep my ranking a secret, but it was later con rmed at my school’s senior breakfast which honestly still felt so surreal. Even to this day it still feels that way. I never thought I would be in this position but I am extremely grateful for it all.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

I wish I knew it wasn’t as intimidating as people made it out to be. I feel like there’s this social pressure when it comes to high school with expectations that make us terri ed for the future. But after living through it all, I can de nitely say it’s not that scary.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory has got to be all of the Hispanic heritage assemblies that I was able to participate in. I was able to embrace my culture and meet amazing people along the way.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

One of the most important lessons I learned would be to live life with no regrets. Take chances,

ask questions, and be persistent with what you would like to achieve. Because at the end of the day the worst that can happen is being able to say that you at least tried.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

I participated in my school’s Spanish Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Honor Society, Latin Quarters, and Key Club. But my favorite would have to be Spanish Honor Society. I had the honor of being part of its leadership group the rst year it was established at my school, and even became the rst to win a gold medal the rst year we competed in the National Spanish exams.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

I plan to attend Florida State University after high school where I will be studying biomedical engineering so that I can then, in turn, work on advancing prosthetics for kids.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

Think about your future and how you want it to look. Find your motivation, work hard, and go for it! VALEDICTORIAN:

When did you nd out you are your classes’ salutatorian? How did you react?

I discovered I was the salutatorian during my senior breakfast in late February when the top ten was announced. I had somewhat of an idea where I would place, but it was still such a shock because I knew it was a close race between all of us.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

Before stepping into freshman year, I wish someone really convinced me that high school ies by in a blink. Sure, they said it, but I didn’t believe it. Now with graduation just weeks away, the reality has hit me. Balancing fun with academics is key, but truly, cherish every moment—it all goes by way too fast.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My high school years are lled with memorable moments, from the excitement at football games to the fun at school dances. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the times I spent with my friends doing community service. It was the perfect mix of enjoying time with friends and giving back to our community. We participated in many events throughout the years, and those experiences are truly dear to me.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

The most valuable lesson I learned has been told to me by many of my teachers, which is the importance of self-compassion. They made me see that continuously being my own harshest critic wasn’t necessary, and that I should persevere even when motivation is at its lowest. Giving up isn’t an option because the regret of what could have been done is far worse than the struggle to push through.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

Throughout high school, I was active in a variety of extra curriculars such as Key Club, Leo Club, Letters for Rose, and HOSA. I was also part of the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, senior council, and the varsity golf team. It’s challenging to choose a favorite because each activity contributed to my personal growth in unique ways. The community service clubs were particularly rewarding as they aligned with my passion for giving back to the community, but I also found great value in the honor societies and my involvement in the council.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

After high school, I plan to attend the University of Florida to pursue a career in the medical eld. I’m leaning towards becoming either a Forensic Nurse or a Forensic Medical Examiner. Go Gators!

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

As a salutatorian, my advice to students aiming to improve their grades and reach the top of their class is that it’s important to stay persistent and never give up. Embrace the challenges that come your way, as they provide valuable opportunities for growth. Don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it and surround yourself with peers who motivate you and share similar academic goals. Stay dedicated, work hard, and remember that your e orts will pay o in the long run.

GPA: 8.0577 GPA: 7.4825

STRAWBERRY CREST

HIGH SCHOOL

Kayleigh Grace Roth

Kimberly Ann Rowan

Octavio Rubio-Garcia

Julianna F. Rucoba

Isabella Rueda

Abigail Rose Sacchi

Felix Jose Saez Lopez

Katie Lynn Ben Said

Satya Van Sakamuri

Siva Raj Sakamuri

Kaleigh Rachelle Salazar

Yocelyn Salazar-Bueno

Esther Salcedo

Mayalie Alize Sanchez

Kaden Domenico Sanchez

Elizabeth Sanchez Lopez

Jennifer Sanchez Venegas

Miguel Angel SanchezHernandez

Brian Sanjuan

Jalynn Janine Santana

Christian Jaime Santiago

Maribel Santiago

Melinda Rubi Santiago

Noah Evan Santiago

Alexis Santiago-Lopez

Nimisha Sarkar

Jay Martin Schroeder

Savannah Lou Schwarz

Bailey Elizabeth Scott

Nicholas Alexander Scott

Iris Maria Segura-Barrientos

Shruthi Selvin

Surya Selvin

Neha Senthilkumar

Karla Marie Serrano

Aarav Parag Shah

Suhani Parag Shah

Stephanie Annette Shamblin

Kailash Bala Shankar

Shriya Sharma

Katelin Ting Shen

Brianna Ashtyn Shepard

Jackson Ray Sheppard

William Stanley Siemionko

Alexis Sierra Daisy Silva-Bautista

Adithi Ishani Simha

Xaria Koi SingletaryThomas Autumn Rose Skeens

Aiden Benjamin Smith

Ella Rosa Smith

Sawyer Je rey Smith

Sienna Grace Smith

Leah Marie Snow

James Brandon So Lianelis Christal Sola

Ceridwen Grace Sonnemann

Patricia Sotelo-Leyva

Barbara Aide Soto

Greyson McLean Springer

Zander Adair Spurway

Adhitya Srinivasan

Saige Marie Starford

Anna Clare Steed

Sona Ann Stephen Ariana Jolie Stone

Carlyanna Grace Streeter

Alexander Michael Strickland

Emily Avigay Suarez

Bautista Arden Swindle

Julio Daniel Tamayo

Angelina Keilani Elizabeth Tellado

Sara Belle Terrell

Breana Nicole Thomas

Hailey Marie Thompson

Jennalise Kaitlyn Tia

Sophie Tian

Danny Tolentino-Palma

Nevaeh Darline Tomlinson

Jacqlyn Denise Torres

Natalie Torres

Maythe Issamar TorresCruz

Ethan Connor Townsel

Jasmyn Taylor Tramel

Alex Trejo-Moreno

Jeysson Trejo-Ocampo

Saketh Nagasai Tumuluri

Jaden Eloy Tuppeny

Brooke Lynn Tuttle

Ambarlee Olivia Twigg

Timothy Charles VanHorn

Karen Lucero VaqueroAldama

Dario Marcelo Vargas

Rebekah Marlee Varghese

Kamryn Jade Varn

Curtis Jaden Vaughn

Mary Theresa Vaughn

Alfredo Vazquez

Estrellita Vazquez-Garcia

Anahi Velasco-Flores

Tatyana Lillie Velasquez

Jennifer Velasquez-Velasquez

Yael Velazquez

Kailani PearlVenable

Juan Alberto Villanueva

Lizbeth Villicana-Gomez

Yash Nikunj Vora

Michaela Larisa Walker

Quintin Bronell Walker

Morgan Denise Walls

Cody Aaron Walton

Erik Adam Walton

Cole Runner Warns

Taylor Marie Watkins

Melik Alcendor Watson

Hanna Marie Watson

Makayla Jordan Watson

Nathan Rome Watson

Parker Madison Watson

Caden Riley Watt

Lindsey Abigail Weaver

Alivia Elizabeth Wemheuer

Madison Annabelle

Widisky

Victoria Rose Wieland

Sicily Reena Williams

Aiden P. Williamson

Hailey Elizabeth Wilson

Zachary Ryan Wilson

Nan Thein Win

Angela Joy Wolfe

Lance Louis Wolfe

Landon Hunter Wood

Adelina Marie Worrell

Jalynn Valery Wright

Seth Morgan Wynn

Kathlyn Ntsa Iab Yang

Arturo Gael Zamarripa

Brittany Guadalupe Zamudio

Elisbeth Zaragoza-Garcia

Hanlin Zhang

Jathnielle Ebenezer Zola

STRAWBERRY CREST

When did you nd out you are class valedictorian? How did you react?

I found out during my JA on March 19th. I felt very happy to achieve it, honestly, I didn’t know how to react.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

One thing I wish I knew about high school is there is no need to be nervous and to get ready for everything that’s to come.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory is my 9th grade math class, which I tool online. Though the class itself was not special, me and my friend would always mess around during the zoom classes, and I always enjoyed helping him out and seeking help from him. It taught me that even in the most generic situations, the people around you will always make it better, as well as your outlook on it.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

The most important lesson I learned was to work hard and always keep a positive attitude about everything.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

I did Karate (black belt), music, volunteering, FBLA, HOSA, Speech and Debate, Mu Alpha Theta, etc. I don’t have a particular favorite; I like all of them because they each helped me grow as a student or as a person.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

I am going to the University of Florida, majoring in Neuroscience. I am not too sure about specialization but have the goal of helping those around me.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

I would say, whatever you do give your 100% and grades will come on their own no matter how long it will take. There are lots of online resources available to improve your grades, never be shy to seek help from your peers, teachers.

STRAWBERRY CREST

SASRIYA PARSI: IB SALUTATORIAN

GPA: 8.280

AVERI CASSELMAN:

When did you nd out you are class salutatorian? How did you react?

I found out that I was my class’s salutatorian at a breakfast for the top 10 ranked kids at my school. After nding out I was second, I felt accomplished knowing that my hard work paid o over the years. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

I wish I knew to live in the moment more and instead of constantly stressing about grades, college applications, and future plans. I wish I had taken more time to enjoy the present moment and appreciate the experiences and friendships that high school had to o er.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was the last day of school, a bittersweet moment that captured the four years of growth and bonds I made with my friends and teachers. As I walked through the halls one nal time, I was reminded of all the memories I made here.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

A teacher once told me that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard, and this lesson motivated me to always keep persevering regardless of what happens. Those words became my mantra, guiding me through moments of doubt and di culty.

Whenever I faced challenges or setbacks, I reminded myself of the power of persistence and determination.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

At school, I was a part of my school’s dance marathon, Chargerthon, which held events to raise money for children with cancer. My favorite part of Chargerthon was the sense of unity it brought to our school community. Knowing that our e orts were making a tangible di erence in the lives of children ghting cancer was incredibly rewarding.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

Although I have not decided where I want to go to college yet, I hope to follow my passion for nance and potentially work on Wall Street.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

I would say that it is important to always stay focused on what you’re passionate about and continue to do the things you love. I would remind them to stay hard working and not get distracted through their high school journey to ensure they always have their priorities straight. I’ve learned to consistently put in my best e ort, regardless of the outcome. My biggest piece of advice would be to always persevere and strive to reach your goals no matter what.

When did you nd out you are class valedictorian? How did you react?

I learned I had been named valedictorian in January 2024 when it was o cial. I was ecstatic to nd out my hard work paid o

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

I wish I had known about how many opportunities there were to better prepare for my future. Our Guidance department was a tremendous help with not only my schedule, but scholarship opportunities, as well.

What is your favorite high school memory?

Although swim was time consuming, I enjoyed the time spent with my teammates and the lasting relationships I made while competing. I also worked my entire high school career. I started at Chick- l-A my sophomore year and became a lifeguard at the YMCA.

What is the most important lessons you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

The most important lessons I learned would be that hard work pays o , natural born talent is not enough. Working hard and being dedicated to your goals is essential. I’ve been blessed with dedicated teachers who recognized individual talents and pushed us to succeed.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

I was on the Varsity Swim Team (10th, 11th, 12th grades), swim team captain (12th grade), as well as involved in many clubs, such as Crest buddies, Seeds of Hope, and the Good News Club.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

I am attending the University of Florida, majoring in Microbiology and Cell Sciences. I plan on going to medical school and pursuing a career in surgery.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

I would tell them that life is full of opportunities, and teachers encourage students to make the most of each one. Learning is a signi cant opportunity, and every day presents a chance to acquire new knowledge.

STRAWBERRY CREST

KATYA KING: TRADITIONAL SALUTATORIAN

GPA: 7.344

When did you nd out you are your class salutatorian? How did you react?

I found out I was my classes’ salutatorian ofcially when the semester ended and I went and got my student summary. I had always been in the top ten the last year or so but actually making it to the second-highest GPA was a big shock, especially since I never actually thought I would achieve it. It felt somewhat unreal and of course is a huge honor and reminder that all the work I did actually paid o somewhere.

What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?

Going into high school I wish I knew about dual enrollment a little earlier so I would’ve been able to not completely overload myself to get as many credits as I have now. I also wish I knew that the only person you need to please is yourself because high school is such a wild time and you meet so many people with other interests that staying true to yourself is the only way you’ll actually be able to enjoy those years without facing the pressure of others.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory was my basketball senior night because I had both my basketball family and actually family/friends all there to support me.

What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?

The most important lesson I have learned easily enough is to try my best, even if I don’t succeed. Success also looks di erent for everyone, but if I know that I have put in as much e ort as I could’ve,

then whatever results from it will be some type of success in my life.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?

I participated in my school’s varsity basketball team for all four years and our culinary management team for the last two, to which this year we won states and placed fth in the nation. I have to say that these both are my favorites and will always hold a special place in my high school memories because of both the success that came from all the hard work we put in and the people and coaches/ teachers that I had the opportunity to travel, practice, and perform with.

What are your plans after high school and your career goals?

My plan after high school is to go to USF in the fall and major in Medical Technology. With this and my previous 60 credits from HCC dual enrollment, I want to get my bachelor’s degree and hopefully move on to my master's and a specialization in Cardiothoracic Technology, hopefully ending up as a tech in the operating room of a hospital one day for those types of bypass surgeries.

What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?

I would advise students to rst and foremost turn in their work, because that’s half the battle of school. I would also advise them to not put so much pressure on themselves to make perfect grades or cheat their way through, because actually retaining the knowledge and being successful in a class is way more satisfying and actually useful than cheating your way through and ending up knowing none of what you learned the entire year.

SIMMONS CAREER CENTER

Ruby Barrera

Heriberto Bautista-Santiago

Mariana Blas-Carbajal

Ana Boxtha

Nicholas Brady

Ashley Cantellano-Villanueva

Marilyn Carbajal-Nolasco

Sade Carter

Anayeli Castro

Giseliz Cedeno

Erasmo Cervantes

Gracie Chapman

Ariana Clark

Seth Clemann

Lizette Contreras

Olivia Decker

Armando Delallo

Dylan DeLeon

Evelyn Diaz

Sarah Dominey

Cristina Erquiaga

Sierra Floyd

Anthony Fraire Flores

Alexander Garcia-Hernandez

Amarion Goston

Dolores Granados

Ana Hernandez

Emily Hernandez

Marylin Hernandez

Martin Hernandez-Morales

Bryana Hernandez-Moreno

Shelby Holli eld

Crystal Hurtado

Mia Je coat

Jesus Jimenez-Isidro

Dylan Kirby

Kaden Kirby

Nevaeh Lara

James Lawson

Jessica Lopez-Boxtha

Kimberly Luevano-Montes

Anarosa Martinez

Diana Martinez Cardec

Sierra McCoy

Apollos Melas

Isabella Mendez

Samara Munoz-Salazar

Adolfo Navarro-Lopez

Yarely Nolasco-Bravo

Brisa Ortiz-Castizo

Alexa Perez

Natanael Perez

Dominick Polselli

Anjali Posey

Miriam Rangel

Andrea Reyes Bonet

Arabella Riggs

Yaneisi Robles

Julian Rodriguez

Edgar Rojas-Ramirez

Aldo Rosales

Alondra Ruiz-Sifuentes

Dino Saldierna

Romulo Sanchez

Fabiola Serrato

In Memory of Jesus Jimenez- Isidro

Abigail Stork Gensis Suazo

Luis Tellez Licona

Jonathan Tepatate-Baltazar

Adrian Torres-Alvarado

Cristina Vazquez-Ortiz

Oscar Vega-Rosales

Dayanara Vera-Vallasenor

Daniela Villanueva-Fuentes

Emma Vitale

Cody Walker

Hannah Walker

Tuvaughn Williams

Jacob Yevzero

Caleb Young

Jolancy Youngblood

Erick Zacarias-Lucas