Isabel

Biggest difference between middle school and high school: The increase in independence is probably the biggest difference between middle school and high school. At my middle school, I had a strict schedule to follow, with a short period of time between classes. At College Prep, however, I have free periods and long breaks, during which I have the opportunity to spend time however I want. Additionally, I've noticed more engagement in classroom learning in high school.

Why I chose College Prep: I chose College Prep not only for its outstanding academics, but also for its encouragement of a balanced lifestyle. Despite being at an academically rigorous school, the students are urged to have down time and spend only a certain amount of time on homework per evening. Also, I was very impressed by the many opportunities for involvement in the community, such as student council, tutoring elementary school students, or volunteering at a women's shelter. Students at College Prep are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, whether on a field, learning a new language, or reaching out to new faces and teachers.

Why I'm glad I chose College Prep: I love the atmosphere at College Prep. The vibe that the students bring to the classes is amazing and makes me excited for school every day. The students are engaged and supportive, and they bring such positive energy to the environment. Our school has created a close-knit community where students and teachers have fantastic relationships with one another.

Favorite place on campus: I enjoy going to the library with my friends during my free periods. We all cram into one aisle, sit on the floor, pull out our laptops, and do our homework.

Campus involvement: I joined the tennis team, after having just learned the sport my freshman year. This has become a great opportunity for me to get to know some of the upperclassmen well, something I would not have been able to do as easily if I hadn’t joined a sports team. In the spring season, I play soccer for the school, along with many of my friends. For fine arts, I have taken Beginning Dance and Beginning Photo. I am a Sophomore Community Service representative, and I am a member of any club that brings snacks to its meetings. ;)

Favorite class: English! Ms. Steele, my freshman English teacher, created a classroom with a great balance between meaningful discussions and lighthearted, silly humor.

Favorite College Prep memory: I distinctly remember the first day of Freshmen Orientation, when we did group bonding activities. I was surrounded by 91 other people, mostly coming from different schools, who would be my classmates for the next four years. I loved the orientation talent show; I was able to appreciate the unusual and amazing skills of my classmates. A group of us actually got up and performed Baby Shark (with the hand motions and everything). :)

Favorite character from a movie/book/television series: This is a ridiculously hard question for me, but I think I'd say Vince Howard from the TV series "Friday Night Lights."