As the class of 2025 is readying themselves to graduate, we must say goodbye to all the seniors. In the midst of this graduating class, Mittal Dave is a sixteen-year-old senior who will be making her early transition from JFKMS to Rutgers University.
In this short interview, Mittal details her inspirations, hobbies, walk with God, goals and important takeaways from her life that shaped her to who she is today.
Growing up, who was your inspiration?
Mittal Dave: Growing up, my inspiration has always been my mami ’cause she’s so strong. My mom does everything [for us]. She’s so sweet and the strongest woman I know because even though she had me at a really young age, she still continued to get her job, graduate, all of that. That’s one thing that always inspired me: having a strong woman to guide me in the future.
What’s one childhood memory you can recall that stuck with you? Did you learn anything from it? If so, has the lesson stuck with you?
I remember blaming my brother for breaking glass even though I’m the one that did it. I learned that I had to take accountability because I actually got in more trouble for lying.
One thing about my mom is that she doesn’t play when it comes to lying and it stuck with me ’till this day because now I’m really honest. I’d rather have the truth hurt once because a lie hurts a million times more.
What has been your favorite step performance so far?
I’d say the second game for sure. That was the best game ever. That was when we were in our prime. It was a boys game and everyone came, the vibes were up, it was just great.
What about your least favorite?
Least favorite would have had to be the third one. No one really pulled up for the girls [game]. Everyone’s vibes were down… the whole game was no bueno.
How have you changed throughout the course of doing step?
I feel like I got closer with girls. I’m so happy that I met you guys and that everyone came together because of it, even if we had a lot of downs… but I’m glad I got to meet the people that I met through the process.
Besides step, what’s your favorite hobby and why?
I love making music. Thing is, I love fashion and I love music. Those are my top two. First of all, one thing I love is when a girl can put sh*t on and pull it off. Do any look. They can do streetwear or any type of wear and pull it off. I also love when guys can do that too.
I know religion is important to you, so how would you say your walk with God has helped you grow into a better person?
I love this question. God first. I kid you not, putting God in the center of your life helps you because you focus on the things that you are meant to focus on. If you put God first, you’re never gonna be last. That’s how I see it.
Do not focus on things that do not deserve to be focused on, because in the long run, it’s not going to help you. If you’re worried about dating and all of that right now, it’s not going to help you in the future. Focusing on your goals and work- that’s truly what’s going to stay with you. People can’t stay with you, but God can.
What career do you wish to pursue after high school?
I’m going to go into law to be a corporate attorney.
What has motivated you to pursue this career?
To be honest, throughout my life I’ve always been good at history and science- but it’s not always something I was strong in.
I’ve always loved standing up for someone and figuring out a way of equality. I love when people are treated fairly. That kind of stuff intrigues me.
How does being sixteen in senior year differ from being the average age?
It differs because everyone is more mature and grown up. Well, I wouldn’t want to say mature, but they’re definitely more grown up. I feel like I’m a little kid, but also, I’m proud of it because I’m sixteen and I’m graduating. I like to think of it as I’m making my family proud because I’m finishing things earlier.
What’s your favorite senior year memory?
Definitely the law trip that [my class] went on. We went on a law trip for law and society.
However, I would say another great memory would be step. To me, it was fun. The games. the friends- that’s something I’m always gonna remember. The nervousness before going into the games- I’m never going to forget that.
