Name: Chloe

Graduation Year: 2029

Middle School: The Dorris-Eaton School

Hometown: Lafayette

Campus Involvement: At College Prep, I take part in our dance program through the all-year dance elective; CHOREO, an annual student-led dance showcase; and spirit dance, a student-led dance team that performs on sports nights and during spirit week. Over just one year, my skills grew quickly, and I felt infinitely supported by my friends and dance teacher, Ms. Alicia. I also play piano in the CPS jazz band and jazz combo, and I had so much fun this past year in the class. I've never had the opportunity to play in a real jazz band at school, so I loved being able to perform with a larger group than I was used to working with. Finally, I participated in Track & Field and made so many friends while playing the sport. I love the competition and teammate support, and it added a lot of balance to each school day.

What is the biggest difference between middle school and high school? High school, especially at College Prep, gifts students much more freedom. Our four block schedule, with a number of short community-building periods like x-block and common classroom, gives students more agency over their activities during the day beyond classwork. Also, with more time on their hands, students are encouraged to take initiative over their own learning and schedule meetings with their teachers if they need help, which gave me a new sense of responsibility and independence.

What is your favorite place on campus (and why)? Currently, my favorite place on campus is a hidden picnic bench near the Hill Buildings. The area is slightly removed from the more populated spots on campus, making it my favorite area to focus and work. If I'm staying at school late, I often sit there, put in my AirPods, and watch the sunset.

What is your favorite thing about College Prep? My favorite thing about College Prep is its supportive community. Surprisingly, I made some of my fondest memories during spring finals week. As my friends and I waited for our math final, we hung out in the music room, creating songs on the piano and singing as we played melodies with boomwhackers. Despite the stress we all felt as we anticipated our tests, we went to each other for support and created one of my favorite memories from freshman year. The community at College Prep is filled with intelligent, kind, and deeply driven people who have countless talents and hobbies that they work tirelessly at. Yet, they still leave room for bonding with friends, creating music and art without the bounds of a class assignment, and giving help to others in the community.