Q: What grade are you in?

A: I am in the 12th grade at Salisbury Township High School.

Q: What is your favorite subject? Why?

A: World history is endlessly fascinating to me. I love not only being able to see the big picture– the integration of world cultures– but learning to understand the foundations of the cultures. World history led by Mr. Barna has allowed me to appreciate the value and reality of diversity.

Q: Have you received any special awards or recognition?

A: Yes; this year I've been proud to have an article published in the Morning Call. Over my high school career, I've placed first in my age group for the Lehigh Valley Poetry Project, and I've received an honorable mention at the Banana Factory youth art contest. I've had a written piece published in the online magazine, Teen Ink, as well.

Q: Are you involved in any extracurricular activities?

A: I enjoy participating in the 88.1 FM WDIY Youth Media radio program, where I write and broadcast local news. I've run a few 5K races and I take private cello lessons. This year, I took several classes at the Baum School of Art, and in high school, I have participated on the rifle and track team.

Q: What is your next goal after high school?

A: My next goal after high school is to see the United States of America and to make it back. The day after graduation, a friend and I are going on a month-long camping trip out west. With all of the impressive, beautiful places I am sure to see, I will almost certainly have to discipline myself to return home. So, I maintain that my next goal is to return from that great adventure. After my return, I will be pursuing a bachelor's degree in political science at Temple University.

Q: What would you say your biggest challenge has been so far?

A: My biggest challenge so far has been continuing to challenge myself by learning about things I am not necessarily interested in. I think that to maintain a well-rounded personality, it is important to pay attention to subjects one is not necessarily partial to. I struggle with concentrating on the sciences and mathematics and would much rather insulate myself in things that are more interesting to myself, such as the arts and humanities.

Q: What do you want to be remembered for?

A: I want to be remembered for loving, respecting and accepting this world. I know I cannot, and I do not want to be the ideal daughter, the ideal friend, or the ideal student, and that I would hate more than anything to perpetrate the illusion of perfection.

Q: Who is in your family?

A: My mom, dad, and brother.

Q: Do you have someone you look up to?

A: I look up to my English teacher. I not only want to be like him when I grow up– I want to be like him now. He would disapprove of my saying that, and that only emphasizes the legitimate grounds of my affection.

Q: Do you have any advice for your peers?

A: Wear sunscreen.