How has your experience been with the Lamp? What have you learned from being part of the school newspaper?
Elena: Being part of the Lamp, the school newspaper, has been absolutely wonderful. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with my peers from all different grade levels, both as a writer and later as an editor. Through the paper, I learned to reach out to people and initiate interactions with others. The Lamp is so special because we are able to essentially immortalize our experiences at Central through the newspaper, a memento for us to look back on.
Gomana: Being a part of the Lamp has been a very valuable experience for me. I’ve had the opportunity to contribute as a writer and an editor. As a writer, I honed my writing skills by conveying information effectively. Transitioning to my role as a current editor has deepened my understanding of the editorial process, teaching me to collaborate with fellow team members. The environment of the paper has not only allowed me to grow as a writer and editor, but has also allowed me to foster a sense of school community.
What will you miss most about Central?
Elena: Immersed in such a large school, I am always meeting new people and forming new meaningful connections. Whether it is in class, during a club meeting, or at a school event, my peers, teachers, and friends make this place very special. They are what I will miss most about Central.
Gomana: Fond memories will always center around the cherished relationships I have made during my academic journey. The transition from a virtual freshman year to my senior year has been marked by the enduring bonds formed by friends and the valuable guidance received from teachers. The unprecedented challenges and the growth within the Central community are aspects I will deeply cherish and miss.
What other activities are you involved in, either in school or outside of school?
Elena: Central has so many activities to offer, and over the year’s I’ve been involved with several. In an effort to give back to my community, I have been involved with the school’s Red Cross club as well as Key Club, both of which I now serve as an officer for. I am also currently the co president of the Women in STEM club to share my passion for science with others. Additionally, music is one of my hobbies and I am a member of the school’s All Strings Attached musical group, where we perform for the community at nursing homes, holiday events, etc.
Gomana: My involvement in several activities, both within and outside of school, has played an important role in my identity. As the co-president of Relay for Life, an event hosted by the Student Movement Against Cancer club, I’ve been dedicated to contributing to meaningful causes. I am also an officer of the Red Cross Club as well as the Women in STEM club. Outside of school, I enjoy weightlifting and cooking. Moreover, founding the charity organization Crafty Smiles has been a fulfilling endeavor, enabling me to make a positive impact in a unique way. Through these experiences, I’ve not only developed leadership skills but also discovered my identity, which has extended beyond the classroom.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
Elena: Looking back at the past four years of high school, I would tell my freshman self to not worry so much. It seems like the moment you step foot into high school, everyone is asking you about college, your career, and the future. But just keep working hard (without stressing), and everything will work out in the end. Make sure to enjoy every moment of high school!
Gomana: If I could offer advice to my freshman self, I would encourage myself to join new clubs and activities. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone, as these moments can shape lasting friendships and memories. Also, always remember that it’s okay to make mistakes because oftentimes, these mistakes lead to valuable lessons.
Plans after high school? College? Career? What are you looking forward to after high school?
Elena: After high school, I am looking to pursue a career in the medical field as a physician. I hope to combine my boundless curiosity with my love for meaningful conversations by conducting research in the lab while also treating patients in the clinic. As I continue my journey, I am excited to meet new people and explore the world.
Gomana: After high school, I plan to pursue a college education with a focus on neuroscience and biology. Looking ahead to the post-undergraduate phase, my aspirations are towards the fields of neurology or pediatric oncology. I eagerly anticipate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference in healthcare.
