Chris

Biggest difference between middle school and high school: You become more independent and carry more responsibility socially and academically. More is expected from you and you have to adjust to your new role as a young adult. I'd say coming to College Prep gave me a reality check in terms of what my priorities were regarding my long term goals.

Why I'm glad I chose College Prep: The academics are super tough but they are balanced well with unique breaks such as Intraterm and Snow Trip. I've come to appreciate the fact that the school strives to balance the rigorous academic schedule with fun opportunities.

Campus involvement: I play for the soccer team in the fall and the tennis team in the spring. I am currently taking Intermediate Art but slated to do Advanced Projects in the spring semester of my senior year. I am a part of a group of guys that cooks dinner and serves it to the men at the Berkeley Men's Shelter every other Saturday. It's on a voluntary basis so its gives a genuine feel to each trip out to the shelter. The voluntary aspect is important to us because it lets the men know that we truly care about helping them get back on their feet. We get to eat with the men there and have great conversations with them. It's a very gratifying experience.

Favorite class: All of my classes are fantastic. But in terms of subject matter I'd have to say History just barely squeaks by as my favorite. I find the story of our world extremely intriguing and I believe there is a lot to be learned from our past that can be used for our future.

Favorite thing about College Prep: The teachers are by far the best aspect of College Prep. They are all so personable and knowledgeable. They're very approachable and eager to help with anything. You can also have great conversations with them about stuff that isn't school related!

Favorite College Prep memory: I really wanted to go the parade in San Francisco after the Giants had won the World Series but it was right in the middle of the school day. So, I tried to track down all of my teachers and see if it would be okay with them if I went. All the teachers I was able to talk to urged me to go (telling me it was a once in a lifetime opportunity) and all of the teachers I couldn't find didn't get angry even though I was basically cutting class!

Coolest (spring/summer/winter) break experience: The summer before freshman year I went on a trip by myself to South Korea to stay with my grandparents for two weeks. Initially, I didn't want to go there for that long but I began to like it a lot after having been there for a few days. The culture is so different, the people are all so nice and it was just a great experience living in another country for 2 weeks. It was nice to hang out with the rest of my family members that live in Korea. I don't get to see them a lot so I really appreciated the time I got to spend with them, and the food there is amazing!!

Favorite character from a movie/book/television series: Chris Gardner from Pursuit of Happyness (Movie), Holden Caufield from Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger (Book), and Ari Gold from Entourage (TV series).