Q. Please provide the first names of your family members: parents, siblings and pets.

A. My mom’s name is Sara, my dad’s name is Eddie and my brother is Justin. I don’t currently have any pets, but my family has always been my foundation and biggest supporters.

Q. As an incoming senior at Emmaus High School, do you have any specific goals you will pursue this academic year?

A. As I begin senior year, I am more determined than ever to give my best academically, get accepted into a college where I can thrive and enjoy everything that makes this final chapter special. I want to challenge myself, reflect on how far I have come and create lasting memories with those who have shaped my high school experience.

Q. What is your favorite class at EHS? Why?

A. While math is my favorite subject overall, the class that truly stood out was Microsoft PowerPoint with Mrs. Urbassik. It felt like a judgment-free space where creativity was encouraged and celebrated. She gave me the freedom to explore ideas without limits. Thanks to her support, I became, to my knowledge, the first student from Emmaus to compete nationally in Microsoft events after placing first in the state. That experience boosted my confidence and showed me what can happen when someone believes in your potential.

Q. Have you received any special awards or recognition?

A. Yes, I have been honored to receive several awards for my academic work and commitment. I was the 2024 Microsoft Office Specialist PowerPoint National Second Place Champion and the Pennsylvania State Champion. I placed eighth at the 2025 FBLA State Conference and hold certifications in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint, along with the Microsoft Office Specialist: Associate (Office 2019) credential. I have made the Principal’s Honor Roll each year since freshman year and am a member of National Honor Society, Science Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society.

Q. Are you involved in any extracurricular activities? How has being involved in these organizations impacted your high school experience?

A. Yes, I have been involved in many activities that have shaped who I am. I played soccer and earned a 2nd-degree black belt in karate, which taught me discipline and focus. I have played viola since fourth grade, performing in Chamber and Sinfonia orchestras and have also competed for a spot in the PMEA District Orchestra. I participate in FBLA, Spanish Club (currently vice president), Chess Club, No Place for Hate, Interact Club, SAT Prep Club and serve as a Hornet Ambassador. Outside of school, I volunteer with the Healthy Kids Running Series and at the Lower Macungie Library. These experiences have helped me grow as a leader and taught me the value of service and community.

Q. What do you consider your biggest challenge to date?

A. One of my biggest challenges has been balancing academics, extracurriculars, leadership roles and personal life while taking care of my health. It has not always been easy, but I have learned to set boundaries, manage stress and stay focused. The process has made me more resilient and better prepared for future challenges.

Q. At this time, what are your plans for the future beyond high school?

A. After high school, I plan to major in computer engineering and possibly add a minor or second major in business. I enjoy exploring how technology and innovation work together and I hope to enter a field where I can solve meaningful problems. I also plan to continue playing viola in college as a way to stay connected to music.

Q. If you could spend an evening conversing with a historically significant person, whom would you choose? Why?

A. I would choose Terence Tao, a mathematician often called a modern-day genius. He may not be widely known, but his intelligence, humility and contributions to math are incredibly inspiring. As someone with Chinese heritage, I see him as a powerful example of quiet excellence and character. His story motivates me to pursue both knowledge and personal integrity. I would love to hear how he sees the world and how he approaches complex ideas with such clarity.

Q. For what would you like to be remembered?

A. I hope to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference, whether through kindness, academic drive, leadership or just being someone people could count on. I want to leave a legacy of purpose, compassion and authenticity. And if people also remember me as the kid who loved video games, that is fine too.

Q. Do you have any advice for your peers?

A. My advice is based on something my mom once told me:

“Would you rather work hard now for four years so that you can play hard for the next 40 years, or play hard now for four years so you have to work hard for the next 40 years?”

That idea stuck with me and helped me stay motivated, even when things were difficult. It taught me that short-term effort brings long-term rewards. Work hard now, stay focused and trust that the effort you put in today will open doors tomorrow.