Name: Kalia 

Graduation Year: 2022

Middle School: Seven Hills

Hometown: Lafayette

 

Why did you choose College Prep? I knew that College Prep's academics would challenge me in the classroom, but I also wanted classmates and teachers who would motivate me to do my best. The community I discovered at open house and on my shadow day was amazing and supportive and brilliant, and that was really what helped me choose so easily.

 

What's the biggest difference between middle school and high school? Opportunities and freedom! My middle school was relatively small, so the introduction of so many clubs and activities really excited me. I also loved wandering around campus during my free periods or wandering off campus to grab focaccia at Market Hall with friends.

 

What advice do you have for 8th graders applying to high school? Don't be afraid to self-promote! I always feel awkward doing this, but if you can't talk about yourself with confidence then people won't be able to see how wonderful you are!

 

What is your favorite place on campus? Probably the library! I often meet up with my friends there before class starts or spend time doing homework on the couches. It's kinda weird but I love when it rains and sooo many people crowd into the space and sit everywhere. It feels very chaotic but cozy. Also, books!!

 

What are you involved in on Campus? I've played tennis for a number of years, but playing at College Prep really gave me my first opportunity to get to know other students at school and be part of a team which I absolutely adore. I've tutored after school at Chabot Elementary and now organize the program for CPS students to tutor as well. As someone who really appreciates journalism, I've been thrilled to be a part of our school's newspaper, The Radar, as first the Advice section editor and now a Managing Editor. This year I also became the leader of Asian American Association (AAA), a club I'm very passionate about because of my identity as an Asian American and my interests in sharing different Asian cultures with our community. Similarly, I founded Chinese Culture Club last year. Through school, I also participate in other clubs, volunteering at the food bank, and admissions! After hosting student tours as a 10Guide, I'm very excited to be an ambassador as well :D

 

What has been your favorite class? My favorite class has probably been sophomore English. Besides the fantastic selection of books, poems, and other literature that we got to read, our discussions were always incredibly lively and insightful. I also really enjoyed crafting my personal essay and learning how to convey my voice clearly in writing.

 

What is your favorite College Prep memory? When my friends and I play Uno during class breaks! The worst time was probably when I got +16 and we were all laughing like crazy and then had to go right back into class. Although I might not know some of the people we play with very well, I'm always glad to get to know a classmate better, even if it's after I lose in a highly competitive Uno session.

 

Who is your favorite character from a movie/book/television series? Chidi from The Good Place or Javert in Les Misérables. I guess the common themes are morality and mortality?

 

1. I don't like cereal or popcorn.

2. I like learning languages! Right now it’s Russian and ASL. 

3. I've biked from San Francisco to Los Angeles! I think I managed to find a bubble tea every day except in San Simeon.