ALANNA SHILL-REYES
GRADE POINT AVERAGE – 7.5574
When did you find out you are your classes’
salutatorian? How did you react?
I found out on February 25th. I was very surprised but also excited at the same time.
What is something you wish you knew about high school before entering as a freshman?
Something I wish I knew about high school before entering as a freshman is the importance of being more involved in school-related extracurricular activities. It is a great way to make new friends and to start building your résumé for college as soon as freshman year starts.
What is your favorite high school memory?
My favorite high school memory is going to school activities with my friends.
What is the most important lesson you learned from a teacher or another student while in high school?
The most important lesson that I learned from one of my teachers, Ms. Mitchell, is something that she used to tell us all the time: “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready, so always stay ready!” and “Give your best in everything you do.”
What extracurricular activities did you participate in? What was your favorite and why?
I played club volleyball from 9th to 11th grade, I was part of the track and field team in 9th grade, was part of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society, Buddies Club, volunteered as an assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Eagles Volleyball Club (elementary school children). I have volunteered in multiple community outreach events through my church, Seeds of Hope, and Real Hope House. I participated in Calendar Girl during my sophomore year. I worked as a nanny and a camp counselor. I have been on two mission trips to El Salvador and will be going on my third one this summer.
I have two favorite activities: playing club volleyball because I had the opportunity to play a sport that I love, and made long lasting friends; and going on the mission trips because it gives me the opportunity to learn more about other countries and work with children of all ages.
What are your plans after high school and your career goals?
My plans are to complete a bachelor’s degree in Nursing, minoring in Public Health at USF—with the goal of attending post-graduate school to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
What advice would you give students to help them improve their grades?
When in doubt or struggling with a subject, don’t be afraid of asking your teachers for help. Also, find friends who have common goals and create study groups. Managing your time properly is key. Finally, give your best in everything you do.
