Jocelyn

Biggest difference between middle school and high school: In my middle school, there were always a lot of rules that you had to abide by. Once I entered high school, however, I feel that I was given a lot more freedom in terms of what I could do and the teachers have more trust in the students. I'm treated more as a young adult rather than a kid, and in the process I have become more independent. With that being said, I have also gained a lot more responsibility. At College Prep, I've had to learn how to prioritize and to organize efficiently.

Why I'm glad I chose College Prep: I feel so comfortable in all my classes because everyone is open to sharing and receiving different ideas and opinions.  Although the academics are rigorous, I am very thankful that I am surrounded by people who continually teach me new things. Besides the academics, I'm glad I chose College Prep because it offers a lot of opportunities outside of the classroom. Last summer (2010), I went on a service learning trip to India with a group of students for three weeks. I was able to immerse myself in a very different culture; this trip for me became one of the best experiences I've ever had. During College Prep's Intraterm of my freshman year, I learned how to wind-surf and sail. During Intraterm this year, I was able to again experience a different culture when I joined a group of students in traveling to Yucatan, Mexico. 

Favorite place on campus: During lunch and when it's sunny, I like to hang out with my friends in the area outside of the math classrooms. There, it's always warm and never crowded. 

Campus involvement: This year, I participated with a group of girls in cooking and serving meals at the Women's Shelter in Berkeley and I was a class coordinator for Adopt-a-Family. Both were wonderful opportunities for us to show our appreciation for our community and to really give back to others. I am also in Advanced Dance. I love dancing because it is one of the best ways I am able to express myself. I am so grateful that we are given various opportunities to perform at College Prep. For example, this year we performed at the Chinese Senior Center. In February, we participated in the High School Dance Festival, during which we were able to work with other students who were a part of different dance companies in the Bay Area. The past March, the dancers, singers, and instrumentalists of College Prep participated in the biennial Music Tour. During this time we performed for different middle schools. Music Tour was not only a great way for me to hone my performance skills, but also a wonderful opportunity for me to get to know people from the various other arts programs at College Prep.

Favorite class: I love English because we get to read many different and interesting works.  On top of being able to read these materials, I always love going to English each day because the classroom has a relaxed atmosphere.  We are always able to have very in-depth discussions and I always enjoy hearing my classmates' and my teacher's opinions.  

Favorite thing about College Prep: I think one of the best things and one of my favorite things about College Prep is that the teachers are always enthusiastic about what they are teaching and they are always willing to help you when you need it. 

Coolest (spring/summer/winter) break experience: A few years ago I went to the Philippines for a week with my parents and two of my aunts. We were there because my cousin was being ordained as a priest. I had never experienced an ordination before so it was really interesting seeing the entire process. On top of that, the trip was so much fun because I was able to visit and catch up with family that I hadn't seen in a while.  

Favorite character from a movie/book/television series: 
Talia from Arrows of the Queen (Book).
Tack from The Princess and the Cobbler (Movie).
Buyo from Inuyasha (TV series).