The Class of 2024 produced 39 valedictorians, and The Accolade interviewed each to reflect on their high school journeys and thoughts. This is a full version of the Q&A, of which the preview is included in our May magazine issue. Any remaining full-version Q&A will be posted in alphabetical order throughout the week in the Feature section.

Question 1: Which university have you committed to?
Answer: UC Irvine [University of California, Irvine].

Question 2: What will you major in?
A: Business and finance.

Question 3: What were some notable setbacks you encountered during your high school career and how did you overcome them?
A: I did not have any setbacks.

Question 4: What was one of your most memorable experiences in high school?
A: My most memorable experiences in high school were going to prom, meeting friends and having fun. 

Question 5: How do you think beginning high school through distance learning positively or negatively impacted your high school journey?
A: Distance learning was positive because it was an easier transition since teachers were more lenient, and I could attend classes in the comfort of my own house.

Question 6: What is your biggest regret in high school?
A: My biggest regret was not appreciating the high school experience until it was over.

Question 7: What advice about school would you give your freshman self if you were to start high school again?
A: Do not stress too much and find what you like doing.

Question 8: What were some of your extracurriculars and leadership roles, if any?
A: ASB [Associated Student Body] treasurer since sophomore year and ASB executive treasurer currently; varsity water polo from sophomore to senior year. 

Question 9: What class threatened your valedictorian status the most?
A: Mr. [Thomas] Butler’s AP [Advanced Placement] Lit [English Literature and Composition] class threatened valedictorian status because of the AP rubric grading rather than a 100-point scale.

Question 10: What would you say was the most rewarding aspect of being valedictorian?
A: The most rewarding aspect of being valedictorian for me was being able to reflect on my hard work throughout high school.

Question 11: What was your favorite class in school?
A: My favorite class was the ASB because it was fun planning events with friends.

Question 12: Who was a mentor who helped you throughout your academic journey?
A: My mom mentored me by being strict about grades and pushing me to go above and beyond.

Question 13: What is a study habit that you would recommend to someone else?
A: I barely studied, but my study habit is to cram the night before.

Question 14: What is something you look forward to the most after graduating?
A: I am looking forward to the freedom of moving out and going to college.