What is your favorite subject in school and why?

I like math the most because it’s interesting. Sometimes I don't understand at first, but when I do, it's a celebration because I finally know the answer. It’s also more straight-forward than other subjects. I like the challenge of solving math problems because it’s a skill you need in life.

What's the coolest thing you've ever done in a school project or lesson?

In seventh grade, we had a group project where we had to interview professionals for robotics. We could choose any field we wanted to focus on. Our team chose athletes and artists. What I learned was that they seem very different but they had a lot of things in common. They both need hard work, practice and drive.  

If you could learn any skill instantly, what would it be?

Relating it back to math, I’d say problem-solving. Many problems take trial and error to get the solution, which takes time. Being able to instantly get it, saves time and can help solve things quicker. 

Would you rather be able to talk to animals or be able to speak and understand any language in the world?

Talking to animals could be fun, but speaking and understanding any language is better. You can relate to many more people and help with problems. Animals can be more like buddies, so it would be like talking to a friend. Being able to talk to someone on the other side of the world creates a connection that helps everyone.

What's something you're really passionate about outside of school?

I’m passionate about swimming. I’ve been swimming since I was four-years old. You need patience, to put in hard work and lots of practice, but it’s rewarding. In 2022, I won fourth place nationally for one of my events and in 2023 I got state champion. 

I enjoyed watching swim in this year’s Olympics because I like to see their techniques so I can improve. My two favorites to watch were France’s Leon Marchand and U.S.’s Caeleb Dressel. 

What is your happiest school memory?

My happiest school memory was in fifth grade when we went on a field trip to Raleigh. I had to wake up at 5 a.m. and it was so dark outside. I remember waiting in line outside of the shuttle bus then going in to sit in the most comfortable seats. Our teachers were so happy and singing. We also got to see the sunrise. The rest of the trip we went to museums and saw historical buildings. It was fun because I had time with my friends and left with so many great memories.

If you could pick any three people to hang out with for a day, who would it be and why?

I’d want it to be people I could have fun with and learn from so I’d choose one of my best friends from swim. He always collaborates with me, he’s nice and funny. We get along really well.

Spending time with a celebrity sounds exciting! I’d love the chance to learn more about their career and what they enjoy outside of the spotlight. One person who comes to mind is swimmer Lilly King. I actually attended a swimming camp where she made an appearance, and I even got her autograph. She was really friendly, and I think it would be amazing to hang out in the pool with her, learning some of her expert techniques firsthand.

For the last person, any one of my swim coaches. They show empathy, allow us to have fun and push us to be better.