Name: Hana 

Graduation Year: 2026

Middle School: Dorris-Eaton

Hometown: Piedmont

Why did you choose College Prep? The community! As I attended student panels and other admission events, I was drawn in by the number of people who stated that the community was their favorite part of College Prep. Now that I’ve been at College Prep for a few years, I can confidently say that what I heard is true! Recognizing that high school is such a big part of our lives, I knew that I wanted a place where I would feel welcomed and supported.

What is the biggest difference between middle school and high school? The independence. While in middle school my schedule was set for me. Here, I’ve been able to explore different interests of my choosing in and out of the classroom. We can create our own clubs, teach mini classes during Common Classroom, and become leaders in the community.

What advice would you give to eighth graders applying to high school? Figure out what you want from a school. There is something out there for everyone, so don't feel pressure to go to a certain school others are telling you to go to. School visits and admission panels are a great way to learn more about a school!

What is your favorite place on campus (and why)? My favorite place on campus is the courtyard. I love eating lunch with my friends and relaxing in the sun, and since the courtyard is set in the middle of campus, I get to experience the vibrant College Prep community in its prime.

Campus Involvement: I’m on the girls tennis team which has allowed me to meet some of my closest friends and get to know people from all grades. Van rides filled with music, after-match dinners, and cheering on teammates are a few highlights. I've been involved with the Partners Program as a mentor for two semesters now. It’s been incredible to mentor and develop a bond with a middle school student I would have otherwise never met. I am a leader of the Muslim Student Association and have used this opportunity to create a space for students to connect and share their experiences. I also do Public Forum debate. In addition to debating with some of my best friends, I've learned how to better articulate my thoughts on the spot and have increased my knowledge on real-world issues.

What has been your favorite class so far (and why)? My favorite class so far has been chemistry. I had a great time in chem, not only because I had a really fun group of classmates, but also because I loved my teacher. The content was taught in a super engaging way, balancing lectures with group work and experiments (who doesn't love lighting things on fire?). I've always loved science and math, and chemistry was a perfect mix of the two subjects.

What is your favorite thing about College Prep? The support system at CPS is unlike any other I've seen before. Not only do I have friends and peers who can help me figure out an especially challenging math problem, but my teachers always make time for me. The community at CPS cares about your health and happiness above all else, not just about your academic performance.

What is your favorite character from a movie/book/television series? Elizabeth Zott is the main character in a novel titled "Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus. She is a chemist, a mother, and reluctant TV cooking show host living during the 1950s, who breaks societal norms as she continues to research in a male-dominated field. I admire Zott's bravery and resilience—she never succumbs to the obstacles in her way.

1. I really like cinnamon and black licorice (my two favorite jelly bean flavors)

2. I'm in the process of learning 3 languages: Spanish, Arabic, and Hindi

3. I named my chickens Brownie, Yellowie, and Reddie. I bet you can guess what colors they are :)