Name: Noelle
Graduation Year: 2028

Middle School: Head-Royce School

Hometown: Oakland

Campus Involvement: On campus, I co-lead our Black Student Union, play on our girls' varsity basketball team, co-lead our French Club, and compete in Public Forum debate. I love co-leading the BSU because it allows me to share my culture with the CPS community, and make it a more inclusive space overall. Playing on the girls' varsity basketball team has allowed me to form some of my strongest friendships at CPS. I love getting to train together over the summer,  and grow as a team throughout our season. Starting the French Club at CPS has allowed me to share one of my greatest interests with the community. I've enjoyed getting to teach and learn French with students of all grades, despite not having French as an official course. Competing in Public Forum debate has allowed me to foster new connections, develop great public speaking skills, and learn about many current events. These are all skills that help me in many areas of my life.

Why did you choose College Prep? I chose to attend College Prep because I loved the community and felt like the academic rigor would allow me to grow a lot as a student and as a person. I still feel like College Prep creates a very inclusive environment that allows students to be their authentic selves and share their interests with the community. Furthermore, I appreciate all of the support systems that are offered at the school; they helped me in my transition to high school and continue to help me through my classes.

What is your favorite place on campus (and why)? My favorite place on campus is the statue garden. On a sunny day, it is so relaxing to sit on the grass and hear the fountain behind me while I talk with friends or do homework.

What is your favorite thing about College Prep? The community! Many people have this answer, and I believe it's because it is the truth. College Prep has such a unique community in that everyone really looks out for one another. While many schools have stigmas around how upperclassmen and underclassmen should interact, CPS brings all grades together rather than creating any division. From our CAP program for freshmen to our PHIRE program for sophomores, cross-grade connection is greatly encouraged. I have loved being able to gain advice from those older than me, and pass down what I learn to the classes below me. I also love how invested all of the teachers and faculty are in us as people, not just as students. It's been so fun to have my teachers participate in French Club meetings with me, or come cheer our team on during a basketball game.