I actually loved my high school experience. I had a little brother 14 years my junior who disrupted my whole world and I was better for it!

My high school introduced me to the benefits of faculty advisors.

In high school I played varsity badminton and wrote for the newspaper. Both hugely formative – focus, teamwork, the power of the written word. Still with me to today.

Neither of my parents had the chance to go to college. Graduating wasn't just about me – it was for them too.

After attending high school in three different states, I learned that fitting in wasn't an option, so I might as well fully embrace standing out.

Bookworm; nerd; class clown; activist. I tried on several identities throughout high school. But having a bit of an attitude was a constant!

Athletics were a refuge. The track, like the court and the field, was a place where a young woman’s strength and power were encouraged and celebrated.

I spent my high school years at the pool—swim team, lifeguard, swim instructor, and just for fun. I loved the camaraderie of my team and I still love the water!

From digital cameras, to flip phone cameras, to front-facing iPhone cameras – I got to experience the evolution of the selfie!

I found myself in community college extracurriculars and again in service via AmeriCorps.

My high school time was focused on finding a way to experience what lay beyond the Pacific Ocean and being scared to leave what I loved.

My family made tamales during the holidays. Everyone helped, and they were shared when finished; something I have continued in my household.

I was painfully shy and thought I was going to die when I had to kiss Romeo on stage!

I was a teenager in New York, but my heart was in California, following my grandmother’s beloved Dodgers and our favorite, Fernando Valenzuela.

If not for music, I don’t know how I would have survived high school.