Opportunities for change are abundant throughout all four years of high school. The determining factor for how that change affects a student lies in their own attitude and choices. Kayley Tran, 12, took advantage of every opportunity to grow in their last four years, getting involved in numerous extracurriculars and putting their all into their commitments.
Tran’s commitment is especially evident through their various leadership roles in these activities. Tran is one of the co-presidents of the senior class, the NHS chapter, and the HOSA chapter. Alongside these, they are the Editor-in-Chief of the student publications website, stampedenews.net. They are also involved in Links, Zero Reasons Why, and their job at the YMCA after-school care program.
That is not to say, however, that Tran has not experienced pressure or low moments in their journey.
“There are times where I allow myself to be extremely overwhelmed because I know the end result will be something that I want more than me being overwhelmed at the time,” Tran said.
Though their plethora of commitments can be exhausting at times, Tran does not regret getting involved in them.
“I’ve made it a point to enjoy my senior year, at least a little bit,” Tran said. “So even if I do take challenging classes, I also get involved with other things outside of academics that balance my sanity, honestly. It adds more things onto my plate, but I think that it’s worth it because it adds more good things onto my plate.”
The “plate” Tran refers to consists of an organized notes page on their phone that lists every upcoming assignment and commitment they need to focus on or complete. Though they have tried a paper planner and other methods of organization over the years, Tran has found that this is the method that works best for them.
Some of Tran’s most pivotal supporters in their journey through these challenges are their family and friends.
“I’ve always had some sort of motivation to do well in school because my parents have drilled that into me and my sister,” Tran said. “We were always raised that education is the most important thing that you can have in life and there’s so many things that you can do if you have a good education.”
This core belief has motivated Tran to strive for success in all aspects of their life. Through this motivation, organization, and perseverance, Tran has reached the level of success that they feel is up to par for their current stage of life. At the end of it all, they are incredibly grateful for their friends, family, and community for providing them with the opportunities and support that got them to where they are today.
