End of Senior Fall Semester Wrapped 2024

I’m excited to share that I’ve officially made it halfway through my senior year! It hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but I’m proud of the strides I’ve made in academics, leadership roles, and personal growth.

Academics 

Maintaining straight A’s in classes like Economics, Advanced Entrepreneurship, Spanish 1 (through Santa Monica College), and Film 110 (through El Camino College) has been challenging yet rewarding. I’m thrilled to announce I have received acceptances to Chapman University with a Dean’s Scholarship, Pepperdine University, and Cal State Fullerton as a Business/Integrative Marketing major. Although Loyola Marymount University deferred my application, I remain motivated and optimistic as I await final decisions.

I was honored to be a Posse Scholar Finalist for Pepperdine. Although I didn’t receive the scholarship, the experience provided me with incredible connections, enhanced my interview skills, and deepened my appreciation for a strong peer community.

Leadership & Involvement

Teen Vogue Summit 

Attending the Teen Vogue Summit as a Content Creator was inspiring. The theme “Own Your Future” motivated me to empower my peers to take charge of their paths.

Interviewed Versha Sharma, Teen Vogue Editor-In-Chief

Key takeaways include:

• Amplifying Student Voices: Encouraging classmates to contribute to our schools platform DV Connect Lit which houses our clubs podcasts and digital zines.

• Networking for Growth: Building meaningful connections with professionals and mentors.

• Strategic Storytelling: Enhancing how we craft and share content to resonate with our audience.

DV Connect Lit 

As Founding President and Editor-in-Chief, I organized our 2nd Annual Book Drive for “Banned Books Week,” collecting over 200 diverse books for our high school’s library. Collaborating with PEN America and the Los Angeles Public Library, we hosted our first AfroLA Youth Activism 101 workshop, exploring the power of local activism and journalism in creating change. We also launched our new theme, “Voices of Change: Youth Activism and Advocacy,” and are actively seeking writers and artists to contribute. Visit our website for more information: DV Connect Lit.

Girl Up Leadership Lab 

Celebrating International Day of the Girl, we organized an Empowerment Tree activity where students wrote empowering messages, symbolizing the strength and unity of young women. Additionally, our Dress to Impress: Homecoming Dress Swap promoted sustainable fashion, donating over 50 dresses to those in need. Attending the 2024 Global Leadership Summit and participating in the Virtual Bootcamp with STEAM and Hasbro further enriched our commitment to empowering girls and advocating for equality.

Advanced Entrepreneurship & Mentoring 

In Advanced Entrepreneurship, I developed essential skills in market research, business terminology, and effective communication. A significant part of my growth came through Portal Learning, particularly the mentorship with Steven Malony, CEO of Belkin.

Belkin Case Study 

Working on the Belkin case study was a standout experience. Learning how Belkin evolved from a small cable maker to a leading tech accessories company was inspiring. Their commitment to sustainability and innovative product development provided great ideas for my own business plans. Touring Belkin’s facilities and participating in team simulations with Julianna Driskel, Senior Marketing Program Manager at Belkin, gave me practical insights into real business operations and strategic planning.

Mentor Steven Malony, Belkin CEO

Mentorship with Steven Malony 

Being mentored by Steven Malony was a game changer. Our conversations about Belkin’s marketing strategies, especially targeting both adults and younger generations, helped shape my business pitch. Steven emphasized the importance of appealing to diverse audiences, which influenced how I approach my future projects.

Special Thanks to Kat 

A heartfelt thank you to our program teacher and mentor, Kat. She has been instrumental in helping me discover my passion for international business and integrative marketing. Kat’s guidance and insights have been invaluable in shaping my career goals and giving me the confidence to pursue them.

Through Portal Learning, I connected with professionals from companies like TechStyle and Fabletics, expanding my network and gaining perspectives from different industries. Working on projects that delivered real results bridged the gap between classroom theories and actual business practices.

Looking Ahead 

This Winter, I’ll be taking ASU Sociology and Anthropology. In Spring, I’m enrolled in English 12, U.S. Government, Ethnic Studies, and Trigonometry through dual college enrollment. I plan to stay active in Portal Learning, Girl Up, and DV Connect Lit, continuing the work I’m passionate about.

I’m beyond grateful for the support I’ve received so far and can’t wait to see where the next steps will lead. If any of my experiences resonate with you, let’s connect—I’m always eager to learn from others and share what I’ve learned along the way!