Selecting students for the Morgan Hill Times’ annual senior spotlight honor is no enviable task. That’s why we make the principals, school counselors and staff sort it out (and they resent us for making them narrow it down to one!). These students have navigated the labyrinth of high school hurdles, and we are inspired by their optimistic outlook, refreshing attitudes and heartfelt honesty. We celebrate them, their families, their mentors and all the graduating seniors in the Class of 2017.
Central High School staff did not provide a senior student for this feature before this week’s print deadline.
Rachel Sjostedt, 18, Live Oak High School
What are your plans after high school?
After high school, I plan on attending UC San Diego to major in aerospace engineering.
What is one of your fondest memories from high school?
My fondest memories in high school would be the time I have spent in the Live Oak Emerald Regime music program. Everyone there acts like family, and the band room is a place I have called home during my four years at Live Oak.
Who was your favorite high school teacher and why?
Mr. Hemeon has been my favorite high school teacher, because he made learning interesting and review fun every single day. I would always look forward to his class, and he was always there with additional help if you just asked.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Being able to intern at NASA or SpaceX would be my dream come true, especially just coming out of college.
If you could leave one piece of advice for an incoming freshman, what would it be?
My advice toward incoming freshman is to surround yourself with people who will both inspire and be there for you. Having support from your peers and friends can do wonders for schoolwork and after school activities.
What are your plans for this summer?
Over the summer I plan on hanging out with my friends one last time before we all go our separate ways toward college. I also plan to work, though being with friends is always preferable.
Favorite movie, book or song: pick one and explain what it does for you?
My all-time favorite book has got to be “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien. The book is proof that even the smallest of creatures can do great things if they have enough courage and a great travelling party.
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Grant Halliday, 17, Ann Sobrato High
What are your plans after high school?
I will be attending Yale University in the fall as an undeclared major, but I am thinking of pursuing a combined major entitled Ethics, Politics and Economics, or Physics, or perhaps Theatre.
What is one of your fondest memories from high school?
One of my best memories of high school happened just a month ago: closing night of the musical “Rent.” It was such an amazing production to be a part of and that particular night was so electric—I wish it had never ended.
Who was your favorite high school teacher and why?
It’s hard to pick one, but I would say Mr. deMelo whom I had for Sophomore English, Stagecraft last year, and Advanced Drama the past two years, as well as being under his direction in three shows. He really is an amazing teacher and I will miss him dearly.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I haven’t really planned that far ahead, but most likely I’ll be pursuing a graduate degree in some subject. Or perhaps I’ll be acting, or maybe even be in a band. Who knows?
If you could leave one piece of advice for an incoming freshman, what would it be?
I’d say just try to enjoy as much of it as much as you can and make as many friends as possible, because the four years really do go by fast. Also you should really join drama and get involved in the plays.
What are your plans for this summer?
Hanging out with friends as much as possible before I go, reading, doing summer homework, and packing.
Favorite movie, book or song: pick one and explain what it does for you?
“A Day In The Life” by the Beatles. It is such a simply driven, yet intricate, song which, despite its somewhat sombre narration, is a masterpiece and is one of the first songs that really glued me to music and inspired me to take up the guitar.
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Lindsay Baker, 17, Live Oak High School
What are your plans after high school?
In the fall, I will be attending Gavilan College to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. I hope to specialize within the neonatal or pediatric oncology sectors. After two years, I plan on transferring to a four-year university.
What is one of your fondest memories from high school?
Junior year, my varsity basketball team almost had a perfect season. This led to us being crowned league champions. The team that we had this season will always hold a special place in my heart because of the sisterhood that we had developed throughout the previous three years.
Who was your favorite high school teacher and why?
Mike Kiefer and Pam Wiemann have had a tremendous impact on my educational experience. Mr. Kiefer was my also my basketball coach, and has always taught me to persevere when life doesn’t go as planned. Mrs. Wiemann has shown me to always be courageous and taught me to put forth my best efforts.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself finishing my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and obtaining a job at a hospital. I hope to work at St. Jude’s Research Hospital, so that I may help bring joy into the lives of children who are sick.
If you could leave one piece of advice for an incoming freshman, what would it be?
Embrace all that happens to you whether it be good or bad. These moments will shape you into the person that you are. Though something may seem like the end of the world at the moment, these struggles will only make you stronger.
What are your plans for this summer?
This summer, I will continue working my current job at Applebee’s. I am also enrolled in a summer class at Gavilan to get a head start on my college education. I am hoping to spend as much time as I can with my friends before they all leave for college.
Favorite movie, book or song: pick one and explain what it does for you?
My favorite song is My Old Man by Zac Brown Band. This is my favorite song because it perfectly encapsulates who my dad was as a person and a father. My dad passed away last year from leukemia and has inspired me to help others in need. Whenever I listen to this song, I feel his presence and remember all of the wonderful things that he taught me.
