With the crowning of the 2024 homecoming queen, Accolade staff reporter Emily Kim conducted a Q&A with senior Liv Chavez to share her experience and motivations to achieve the title.
Question: Why did you decide to run for the homecoming [hoco] queen title?
Answer: I wanted to run for hoco queen to show my fellow Lancers that you can do it all. Being involved in various activities and sports shouldn’t prevent you from participating in the overall school culture.
Q: How did you feel when you first heard your name announced as hoco queen?
A: I was truly overwhelmed with joy. It felt like an immense wave of love and support enveloped me on the field, making it clear that I wasn’t alone in that moment.
Q: What was the most exciting part of the hoco ceremony for you?
A: The most thrilling moment of the hoco ceremony for me was when the students cheered as they called my name to walk. It truly warmed my heart to feel their support and enthusiasm in that unforgettable moment.
Q: What did you do after you were announced the homecoming queen? Any after-parties or celebrations you had? If so, with who, and what did you do?
A: After I was announced homecoming queen, once I wrapped up all the photos and celebrations with my friends and teammates, we decided to keep the good vibes going by heading out to eat.
Q: How did you prepare for the hoco election, and did you expect to win?
A: To be honest, I didn’t take the time to prepare for the election. I was more focused on the homecoming assembly with my ASB [Associated Student Body] committee and winning matches with my golf team. Given my limited preparation and campaigning, I didn’t consider the possibility of winning.
Q: Can you describe the moment you were crowned? What was going through your mind?
A: I was so excited! They asked me to stay on the field so everyone could see me, but all I wanted to do was run over and hug my friends who encouraged me to run in the first place.
Q: What does hoco queen mean to you personally?
A: Among my mother’s five daughters, I am the only one who has received as many awards, participated in extracurricular activities and achieved notable accomplishments. As one of the younger siblings, it has been reassuring to recognize that much of what I do may seem superficial, but winning was truly about how I carried myself while managing all of it throughout my four years of high school.
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration or role model throughout this journey?
A: [Class of 2024 hoco queen] Katie Ortega.
Q: What advice would you give to someone hoping to become homecoming queen in the future?
A: Embrace the overall experience of being on the court. While the other girls may be your competition, taking a friendly approach ensures that you won’t truly lose as long as you’re enjoying the journey. Whether it’s winning the crown or creating cherished high school memories, everyone comes out a winner in this election. Remember, kindness is essential.
Q: What do you think made you stand out from your peers during the homecoming voting process?
A: I believe I was the only person wearing a varsity jacket in my ballot photo. During the assembly, I was also the only candidate who walked in with a guy, as I figured that even if some people didn’t know me, they might recognize Mohammad Ibraham. Additionally, as the only diverse candidate, I actively participated in various activities at Sunny. I’m involved in a sport and engage with numerous programs around campus.
Q: What does homecoming symbolize for you, and how do you think it brings your school together?
A: Homecoming is a significant aspect of our school culture, representing one of the key dances and events that engage students across all grades. It fosters a sense of unity through various activities and spirit weeks, allowing everyone to showcase their Lancer pride throughout the entire week. The election process promotes inclusivity, giving every student a voice in selecting the queen.
Q: What’s next for you after this achievement? Do you see it influencing your future plans in any way?
A: While I acknowledge that winning homecoming queen can be a fun and memorable achievement during my high school years, it won’t have a significant impact on my future education or career path.
