Q. In what grade are you currently enrolled?

A. I am currently enrolled in 12th grade at Emmaus High School.

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

A. My parents’ names are Carmen and Gabriel Istrate. I do not have any siblings, but we have a rescue dog named Summer.

Q. What is your favorite subject? Why?

A. My favorite subject is anatomy and physiology because I really enjoy learning about the structure of the body and how it functions.

Q. Have you received any special awards or recognition?

A. I have received Principal’s Honor Roll and High Honor Roll multiple times throughout my academic career. Additionally, I will be recognized for my current GPA at the Lehigh Career and Technical Institute through Emmaus at graduation this year. Aside from academics, I have participated as a State Cup Finalist for two years in a row during my soccer career.

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

A. This year I am involved in the Health Occupations Students of America and National Honor Society. Since I was a child, up until last summer, I have always played club soccer where I most recently played for Lehigh Valley United. HOSA and NHS impacted my high school experience in the most positive way by allowing me to gain new friendships and abilities through HOSA’s statewide competition and NHS’ volunteering opportunities. My experience through LVU has brought me the most joy and newfound qualities I would not have gained anywhere else.

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

A. I believe my biggest challenge to date has been finding the balance between academics, extracurriculars and free time. I think it goes without saying a lot of students struggle to find time to spare between all their academics, athletics and various other responsibilities.

Q. What is your next goal after high school?

A. I plan to attend Penn State at University Park while majoring in a pre-medicine degree to pursue medical school.

Q. Whom do you admire? Why?

A. The people I admire most are my mom and dad. They are the most hardworking individuals I know and set the best example for me every single day. I am inspired by their willingness to always do what is right and to care for those around them.

Q. For what would you like to be remembered?

A. I think I would most like to be remembered for kindness. I hope I can impact the lives of those around me by being helpful and thoughtful whenever possible.

Q. Do you have any advice for your peers?

A. I think the most important piece of advice I have for my peers is to simply be compassionate toward each other as much as possible throughout our journey of growing up.