Preyasi Patel is currently a senior at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School in the graduating class of 2022. A Mustang at heart, she participates in many after school activities and clubs. The young athlete aspires to study business in college and eventually become an accomplished entrepreneur. I interviewed Patel to share some thoughts about her high school life.

Did you play any sports in high school? What did you love about it?

I played soccer all four years as well as winter and spring track in freshman year. I loved soccer because it was fun and I got to be with my friends. I loved track because I always liked running and competing in races. 

What are your hobbies and interests?

Playing sports, running, dancing, painting, hanging out with my friends.

Did anything change about you since you were a freshman?

I think I became more mature and independent. I think I became a better person overall.

How has high school benefited you?

High school has benefited me because I learned skills that I will carry with me throughout college and the rest of my life. It also helped me find out what I am and am not interested in, which will make it easier for me to decide what I would like to study and what career I want to pursue.

How has COVID-19 affected you and your high school experience? Did you miss out on anything? Do you look forward to anything?

COVID-19 has affected my high school experience mainly because of virtual learning. It was very different to be online and it affected my work ethic because I was not as productive. I missed out on sports and events such as cotillion. Being back in person this year, I look forward to Prom, Eenior Assassin, and other senior activities.

Who were your favorite teachers in high school and why?

One of my favorite memories is Mr. Hill. He is one of my favorites because I can understand what I’m learning when he teaches. Before taking AP Government and Politics with him, I had no interest in anything related to history, therefore I was unable to pay attention and learn. However, with his teaching, I not only grasp the concepts, but also find them quite interesting.

What do you want to do after high school? What do you want to study? What is your future career?

After high school, I would like to go to college and study business. After that, I would like to find a job and eventually be able to start my own business.

What are you looking forward to in college?

I am looking forward to making new friends, trying new things, and joining different clubs.

What would be some good advice for the underclassmen?

I would tell underclassmen to work hard, but also go out and have fun. I would also tell them to take classes on subjects that interest them. Also to join clubs so you can find new things that you are interested in.