As high school comes to a close and teenagers begin their journey into adulthood, students are reflecting on their futures and the meaningful experiences that shaped their lives. Here are a few students that were willing to share their plan for their journey ahead:
Eden Tshibuabua plans to attend FCC for two years before transferring to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatrician—a career path inspired by her passion for helping children, which she has had since she was young. During high school, she was involved in BSU, NHS, step team, marching band, and orchestra, finding joy in performances and senior year events like prom. She describes her final year as her best, as it was full of memorable moments and accomplishments. “Eden was one of the first seniors I met this year, she had a bright and kind energy to her and was always nice and helpful to me.” Sonia Wale-Bogunjuko commented. “I had been in Step club with her where she helped me with the routines when I couldn’t get them. We also shared similarities and hobbies that helped us bond and grow closer, and I know she will do great things after high school.”
Guadalupe Peralta is headed to St. John’s College in Annapolis, MD, where she will study liberal arts with a plan of getting further schooling on literature or education. A passionate participant in the theatre department at WHS, having done jazz band, show choir and several honor societies as well as completing the CTC HS/CJ program, she chose her college for its unique and engaging curriculum. Her aspirations have shifted from acting to becoming an English teacher—a decision driven by practicality and her love of reading, writing, and teaching children. Among her favorite memories are the musicals the Theatre Department showcased every year and her English and history classes that never felt like work to her. “I feel like I grew as a person and did so much that I would have never considered doing when I was younger, and I’m proud of the growth I’ve done while still keeping my morals and teachings I’ve been inspired from for years! My best piece of advice is precisely that–be yourself to a fault, and your real friends will follow.”
Another active member of the Walkersville Drama Department, Marie Kleimola is pursuing her longtime passion by attending cosmetology school, with the goal of earning her license and eventually opening her own salon.
While she once considered becoming a music teacher, she realized that music was something she wanted to enjoy as a creative outlet rather than a career. Marie has been deeply involved throughout her high school years, participating in clubs such as Live, Love, Loud, After graduation, Marie is pursuing her longtime passion by attending cosmetology school, with the goal of earning her license and eventually opening her own salon. While she once considered becoming a music teacher, she realized that music was something she wanted to enjoy as a creative outlet rather than a career. That realization led her to follow her heart straight into the world of cosmetology. Marie has been deeply involved throughout her high school years, participating in clubs such as Live, Love, Loud; Chess; Dreams; Music Makers; Bible Study; and Senior Class. She has been a dedicated member of the theater program for all four years, joined marching band during her senior year as part of the color guard, and earned membership in Tri-M and the International Thespian Society. One of her favorite memories from high school was performing at home football games, where the support of her friends cheering her on brought her real joy: “They didn’t come to the competitions, but hearing them cheer for me at games made me so happy.”
After graduation, Tyler Schuler is heading to the University of Mount Olive, where he will play lacrosse and major in Sports Management. Although playing lacrosse in college wasn’t originally part of his plan, things changed when he began getting recruited, which was an unexpected opportunity that turned into a new chapter. During high school, Tyler stayed active both on and off the field, as he participated in Mentoring Young Men, was involved in BSU, and competed in indoor and outdoor track. He also played lacrosse and earned the title of rec basketball champion. Looking ahead, Tyler hopes to become an officer in the Air Force after college, serve his time, and eventually retire early. Some of his favorite high school memories include hanging out with friends, attending sporting events, and being at track meets. Reflecting on his journey, Tyler offers this simple advice to the students coming up in life: “Good luck to the future youth.”
Trish Kitcher is going far out to Howard University in Washington, D.C. to major in Biology on the Pre-med track. She’s known for her actions as senior executive, participation in service clubs and the national English and Science Honor societies, and her involvement in the Track & Field, Flag Football, Swim, and Soccer teams at Walkersville High School. “After my best friend passed away from cancer, I really wanted to make a difference. I realized that I really liked science and helping people so I then decided to pick my major in biology.” Howard University was also not her first pick as well, as Trish initially wanted to go to Rutgers, but after stepping foot into Howard, she felt welcomed and immediately knew her real goal. “I really am going to miss Walkersville, especially the people I met. They always put a smile on my face and were always there for me. I’m going to miss my teachers too, since they really helped me grow as a person and helped me through my struggles throughout my time here.”
Some students are planning to go into the military instead of immediate college as well. Florian Kamden will be joining the U.S. Army to serve in Geospatial Intelligence, a decision he made after feeling led by the Holy Spirit. Following his military service, Florian plans to attend college to study international relations. With hopes of serving in the Army for at least 20 years, he eventually aims to become a math teacher and a track or basketball coach. Throughout high school, Florian was actively involved in Mock Trial, Debate, SGA, Bible Study, and Chess. One of his most cherished memories in high school was running cross country, which he described as both challenging and fun thanks to his wonderful teammates. Reflecting on his time at Walkersville, Florian shared, “I really enjoyed the two years I spent in Walkersville High School. It was such a great time. Great teachers, and I met some great friends too.”
