Academic All-Stars

These young achievers excel in academics, sports and music. They’re

leaders with visions and servants to their community. With fresh minds

and hearts, this first class of the new millennium is ready to tackle the

world. They are the valedictorians and salutatorians for nine local

schools’ class of 2000.

LOS AMIGOS HIGH SCHOOL:

NAME: Tran Tang

GPA: 4.46

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Bank of America math and science plaque, Student

of the Month, various medals in Science Olympiad, Golden State Diploma:

gold seal bearer, Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship recipient and

California Scholarship Federation

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Teacher’s aide in religious classes, March of

Dimes, CHOC walk, AIDS Walk, Walk America, Key Club and International

Club

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: If we didn’t die, we wouldn’t appreciate life as we

do.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Playing the role of Juliet in my freshman

class play

SUMMER PLANS: Take summer classes at Orange Coast College, work and party

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Mother. She has always been there for me

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Attend Cal State Long Beach and earn a

bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, then attend Cal Tech to

receive a master’s degree.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Babak Mobasseri, coolest teacher/friend

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Being valedictorian

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When I failed my first math test

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I’ll pass the 5-foot mark someday.

NAME: Duyen Amy Bui

GPA: 4.34

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in

1999

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Food Club, Red Cross club and math tutor

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: I’m hungry.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Dressing up as a fairy with my friends for

Halloween

SUMMER PLANS: Relax and eat foods with my best friend, Charles Vu

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Biological science at Cal State Long

Beach

FAVORITE TEACHER: Babak Mobasseri

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Getting a full ride to college

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When I got a one on my practice AP physics test

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: Someday I’ll be able to live on my own with my

friends.

NAME: Khoa Dang Ngo

GPA: 4.39

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: AP Scholar, Lion’s Club Teen Award, Bank of

America Liberal Arts Award, Golden State Diploma: gold seal bearer,

Prudential Spirit of Community honoree, California Scholarship

Federation, February Student of the Month and Science Olympiad medals

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Community service commissioner in leadership,

community service vice-chair for Orange County March of Dimes, AIDS Walk

captain, Walk America and CHOC Walk

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Learn from others’ mistakes; you don’t live long

enough to make them all yourself.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Accidentally burning my breakfast burrito in

my English teacher’s microwave

SUMMER PLANS: Take college classes and work like crazy to save up for

college. I’m also tutoring kids this summer.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My aunt and my mother. They’ve both taught me

the meaning of perseverance.

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Computer science at UC Berkeley. I want

to make video games someday.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Laura Weissert, my French teacher. I’ve never seen a

teacher who wanted her students to learn as much as she does.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Being salutatorian of such an awesome class

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Failing my first math test in my sophomore year. I

sat there and stared at it for, like, 15 minutes.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: The Lakers will go all the way this year.

NAME: Julie Nguyen

GPA: 4.35

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Associated Student Body president, mock trial --

received CRF Outstanding Attorney Award and the Orange County Trial

Lawyers Assn. Outstanding Oral Advocate Award, Science Olympiad,

Knowledge Bowl, Principal’s Leadership Award, Garden Grove Elk’s Lodge

Student of the Month and Xerox Award in humanities

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Red Cross club historian

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Good times are good friends eating good food at a

good restaurant.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: When the judge announced that our mock trial

team beat Esperanza High School in the semifinals of the Orange County

Mock Trial competition

SUMMER PLANS: To work at Disneyland with my best friends, Charles Vu and

Andy Nguyen, and spend time with my sister, Tina, and my idol, Teresa

Tovar

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mother. She always supported me without

pressuring me too much.

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I plan to attend Stanford University. My

major is undecided.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Babak Mobasseri. She is the most caring, intelligent

and funny teacher I ever had, who bought me the crown in the picture.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Being chosen as the best orator of all mock

trial attorneys in the Orange County mock trial competition

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When I tried to get extra points for my physics

joule mobile by attempting a second run that failed and ended up earning

me an F because my physics teacher would not give me the A from my first

attempt

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I will be featured in the encyclopedia and have

numerous biographies written about me, so that children will learn about

my life and write reports about me.

BRETHREN CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: Sara Kanouse

GPA: 4.0

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Band, wind ensemble and marching; softball,

tennis, track, soccer and volleyball; valedictorian; outstanding

achievement in the fields of English, science, and social studies;

Brethren Christian High School Memorial Athlete of the Year 2000; Bank of

America Achievement Award for the liberal arts, outstanding performance

for athletics award; CIF academics award for softball; Distinguished

Christian Award in athletics, academics and music

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Spanish ministry and high school youth group at

Long Beach Brethren

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on

your understanding in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will set your

paths straight.” -- Proverbs 3:5-7

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Playing varsity soccer

SUMMER PLANS: I plan to attend an academic camp for sciences at UCI for

six weeks.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My parents

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I plan to major in biology at UCI and

enter the field of medicine.

FAVORITE TEACHER: I learned a lot from all my teachers.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Obtaining a five out of five on the AP U.S.

history exam

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Returning to sports by running track after having

reconstructive knee surgery and not performing as well as I was

accustomed

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: Whatever profession I choose, that I will be able to

serve my God and my fellow human being as well

NAME: Anne Friedman

GPA: 3.97

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: High school newspaper editor; National Merit

Commendation; student council; leader of girls’ Bible study; Associated

Christian Schools International Distinguished Student in academics, music

and Christian service; salutatorian; Bank of America Award for vocal

music; Praise band; and A Capella choir

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: If you pray for rain, be prepared to deal with some

mud.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: When I was able to tell my newspaper advisor

that writing was going to be my life

SUMMER PLANS: Hang out with friends, sing at some concerts, prepare for

college and work on some poetry and novels

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mom

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Psychology with a communication minor at

Azusa Pacific University. I plan to be a journalist and eventually a

doctor, opening a free clinic somewhere for the unfortunate.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Susan Hart, my eighth-grade English teacher

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Starting a girls’ Bible study and not giving

up on it

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: I received my first newspaper story back after my

advisor edited it, and all I could see was the red ink from her pen all

over it.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: God will use an ordinary person like me to make an

impact on this world, starting with the people around me.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: Previn Warren

GPA: 4.71

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Editor of school newspaper, president of

Philosophy Club, closing prosecution attorney for mock trial, editor of

literary publication, president of the school’s chapter of Amnesty

International, team captain of the junior varsity tennis team, Literary

Society, Gavel Club, Associated Student Body Senator, advanced-level

certificate in piano performance, bass guitarist in a rock band, National

Merit Scholarship winner, Orange County Centennial Scholarship, AP

Scholar with distinction, Telluride Scholarship winner, Bank of America

Certificate winner in social sciences, Who’s Who Among High School

Students, Coronet Award winner in history and social studies, and Coronet

certificate winner in math, science, language arts and Spanish.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Literacy volunteer through the city library; Orange

County Young Democrat, volunteer for Orange County Juvenile Peer Court

and taught piano for three years.

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “A man is defined by his actions not his memories.”

-- from “Total Recall”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Playing with my band at school during

lunchtime and the day the first issue of the newspaper arrived

SUMMER PLANS: To travel to India for a month to vacation and visit

relatives

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Raskolnikov from “Crime and Punishment”

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Social studies -- an interdisciplinary

major combining history, economics, philosophy and sociology -- at

Harvard University

FAVORITE TEACHER: Michael Poff, for his relentless quest to make kids

think critically and for challenging students’ assumptions about

themselves, society and the universe

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Building the school newspaper into a

well-designed, respectable publication and making it a relevant voice on

campus

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Reading “Heart of Darkness” and coming to terms

with my mortality

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: Education will become less directive. Hopefully,

high school will turn into a forum for community learning and a place

where ideas are shared, allowing the competitive, hierarchical mentality

among students to disappear.

NAME: Jennifer Tseng

GPA: 4.66

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Yearbook editor for seniors section, National

Honor Society Founding Board publicist and representative chair,

California Scholarship Federation secretary, Sophomore and Junior

Commission secretary, Prom Commission, AP Scholar with Distinction,

Parent-Teacher-Student Assn. Award for foreign language, Coronet Award

winner for mathematics and named most likely to succeed in the senior

class

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Hospital volunteer, tutor for grade school city

library at Boys & Girls Club, reading program volunteer at the city

library, community shelter volunteer and page for California Music

Teachers’ Assn.

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Don’t believe the world owes you a living. The

world owes you nothing -- it was here first.” -- Mark Twain

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: A friend and I were talking during a break

during an AP exam. We both heard the school bell ring, so we headed

toward the door. We were halfway there when we realized, for once, we

didn’t have to follow the bell on a school day! It just shows me that if

nothing else, Fountain Valley High School conditioned me well... to get

up and leave a room six times a day.

SUMMER PLANS: Taking some summer school classes, traveling to different

areas in the United States

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mother

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I will attend UC Berkeley as a Regents

Scholar and major in history with a possible double major in business

FAVORITE TEACHER: Janet Barkawi, who teaches my favorite subject,

American history, and Susan Graff, who makes calculus fun

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Receiving the senior yearbook I helped to

create. I held in my hands a permanent reminder of my little contribution

to Fountain Valley High School.

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Opening my first summer job rejection letter last

year from my application to work at the “happiest place on Earth,”

Disneyland.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: All of my friends and teachers who helped to make

the last four years of my life the best ever will always find success,

happiness, hope and live in the future to come.

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: Christine Cho

GPA: 4.22

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Playing the flute for three years and band member

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Key Club

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Hard work always pays off.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: The senior trip to Hawaii -- I got the

chance to know my classmates better.

SUMMER PLANS: Relax and chill with friends, maybe get a summer job

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mom

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Attend UC San Diego and explore my

options

FAVORITE TEACHER: I don’t have one. I liked all of my teachers equally.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Working hard to get to the point where I am

today -- getting into some of my top college choices

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Getting rejected from my top two college choices

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I may live a full and happy life, graduate from a

college and meet a great guy. I’ll get married, have children and then

grandchildren.

NAME: Stephanie Wu

GPA:4.19

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Varsity basketball, varsity volleyball, student

council, church youth group, homecoming queen, Athlete of God, All

Express League for volleyball and basketball, Most Valuable Player for

basketball and All-CIF 2nd Team for basketball

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Key Club

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but

of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Senior trip to Hawaii

SUMMER PLANS: Taking two classes at community college -- Chinese and

graphic design. I plan to take a missions trip to Mexico and attend

church camp.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mom

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Attending UC San Diego and majoring in

media arts

FAVORITE TEACHER: Annie Potter

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: At this moment, the Athlete of God Award for

sports

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: God has a special plan for my life, and in his time

all my goals will be achieved.

NAME: Robert Mack

GPA: 4.17

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Eight years of karate, varsity baseball and an

appointment for the Air Force Academy from Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-Garden

Grove).

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Volunteer at Acacia Adult Day Services and

volunteer at Boeing Summer Science Camp

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Don’t whine; just shine.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Going to Hawaii for my senior class trip

SUMMER PLANS: Work at Boeing Reusable Space Systems in the Community

Relations Department. I report to the Air Force Academy for basic

training June 29.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mother. She has sacrificed for me to succeed

and be happy.

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Major in astronautical engineering and be

a pilot in the Air Force Academy. I plan to become an astronaut.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Guy Wilson. He was always there for me when I needed

it.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Became the first person in karate studio to

achieve second degree in junior black belt

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When I didn’t pass my physical fitness test the

first time for the Air Force Academy. It put me under pressure to

proceed.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I can become an astronaut with NASA.

OCEAN VIEW HIGH SCHOOL:

NAME: Christine Chen

GPA: 4.8

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Yearbook, California Scholarship Federation seal

bearer, Medical Academy treasurer, 1999 Golden West League tennis

champion, Student of the Year, Bank of America plaque in liberal arts,

Elks and Emblem Club scholarship recipient, AP Scholar with distinction,

UCI Regents Scholar, UCLA Alumni Scholar, President’s Award for

Educational Excellence, International Baccalaureate diploma candidate and

1999 Junior Kahuna

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Vacation Bible School teacher’s assistant, Key

Club, research assistant for a graduate student at Stanford University

and played for Mile Square Park’s USA Junior Team tennis team

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.” --

“The Little Engine That Could”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Some of my favorite memories come from the

study sessions at my house. Aside from cramming, my friends and I were

often doubled up with laughter from the jokes, pillow fights and tricks

we played on each other.

SUMMER PLANS: Going to Europe with the school and planning a trip to San

Francisco in August with friends

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My parents, for providing the motivation and

support I needed to succeed and accomplish my goals

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Double major in psychology and molecular

biology at Stanford. I plan to attend graduate school to focus on

genetics. I hope to become a researcher in the field and find solutions

to genetic diseases.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Bill Gibbons. He has prepared me the most for college.

The reading, writing and critical thinking skills I learned in his AP

U.S. history class have been invaluable to me.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Getting into Stanford University

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Being told by my mom that even though I may be

valedictorian and have lots of awards, there will always be someone out

there who is stronger and better than I am

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I will one day be very, very rich! I want to be able

to provide well for my parents and little brother so that they will never

have to worry about money again. I also hope to someday find a way to

prevent Alzheimer’s disease through genetic engineering.

NAME: Doreen Szeto

GPA: 4.8

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: International Baccalaureate program, Key Club,

yearbook, Medical Academy retreat, badminton, Model United Nations,

California Scholarship Federation, National Merit Scholar, Principal’s

Award, Student of the Month, Student of the Year, UCLA Regents Scholar,

played piano at state honors recital, AP Scholar with distinction and

Certificate of Merit for piano

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Candy striper for Hoag Hospital Junior Auxiliary,

Vacation Bible School teacher, Bible drill assistant coach, youth group

coordinator and activities director, youth group committee representative

and Unity vocal octet director

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Never frown, because you never know who is falling

in love with your smile,” and “God without man is still God. Man without

God is nothing”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Grueling study sessions and getting

pathetically lost on the way to prom

SUMMER PLANS: Finish designing my Web site, family reunion and spend time

with friends. I’m looking forward to a summer mission trip to Mexico with

my church high school youth group.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Jesus Christ, an example of perfection whom I

try to be like, and my parents who constantly support me

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Major in Southeast Asian studies,

language and culture; minor in Spanish. I hope to become a missionary

overseas or to do intercity service in the United States.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Judy Schwantes, my sixth-grade English teacher. She has

been my mentor and biggest supporter throughout high school.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Getting a Regents Scholarship to all the UC

schools I applied to.

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Realizing that I can do nothing with my own

strength. Performing at a piano competition while I had tendinitis showed

me that I can’t depend only on myself and my talents to succeed. I need

God’s strength and the encouragement of others.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: One day, everyone will know about God’s love and

accept it. I hope I can make a difference and improve one person’s life.

One day, I hope to visit my sponsored child through Compassion

International in the Philippines and be able to talk to him in his own

language.

NAME: Tracy Jessner

GPA: 4.72

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Varsity song-leading co-captain, International

Baccalaureate program, California Scholarship Federation, Spirit Club,

Art & Literary Club/Magazine, salutatorian, Scholar with distinction,

Golden State Exam diploma, Golden Hawk Award in world studies, AP Scholar

with honors, ACT Recognition Award, Student of the Month, Scholar Athlete

Award, Presidential Education Award, Bank of America Achievement Award in

science, Who’s Who in American High School Students, National Merit

Corporate Scholarship, USC Presidential Scholarship, Scions Scholarship,

USC Huntington Beach Alumni Scholarship, Parent-Teacher-Student Assn.

Scholarship, Newport Harbor Panhellenic Scholarship and Doyle Scholarship

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Society Juniors

treasurer; Huntington Beach Sister City Exchange Program; Youth

Ambassador to Anjo, Japan; Huntington Beach’s Friends of the Children’s

Library; Key Service Club and Youth in Government Day.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “What are we going to do tomorrow night, Brain?” “The

same thing we do every night, Pinky, try to take over the World!”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: My favorite high school moment is yet to

come, when I may proudly throw my graduation cap into the air in

celebration.

SUMMER PLANS: I will go with my Spanish class to Spain, France and Italy.

Later in the summer, I will go on a cruise to Mexico with my family. I

also plan to work at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE: The most influential people in my life have been

all of my family and friends, especially my parents and my brother.

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I will attend the USC (Beat the Bruins!)

and major in political science. Although I am uncertain about my career,

I am interested in international relations, government and law.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Sandy Dorsey, my Algebra II/trigonometry and

Pre-calculus teacher. Although she retired last year -- and we all miss

her-- what she taught me will continue to help me in my future.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: I am proud to be a member of the class of

2000, which continues to exceed the limits of what students are capable

of achieving.

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: My most embarrassing moment was tripping on stage

in my Song leading uniform in front of an entire audience of freshmen at

WOW Week.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: I have a dream that I may one day have a positive

effect on society and that the next generation will have all of the same

opportunities for achievement, friendship and growth that I had and more.

HUNTINGTON BEACH HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: Jerry P. Lu

GPA: 4.72

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Vice president of the Key Club, treasurer of

California Scholarship Federation; vice president of the science club,

editor of the school newspaper, tennis, piano, Model United Nations,

National Merit Scholar, Presidential Scholar and Who’s Who Among American

High School Students

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Community service through club-based organizations

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Before you graduate, remember that 61% of high

school statistics can’t be trusted.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Definitely the senior Model United Nations

trip to London and Bath, England.

SUMMER PLANS: Traveling either Asia or to the Mediterranean area; also,

working, studying and occasionally hibernating

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My mom

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Biological sciences or other natural

science toward a career in the medical field. I plan to attend Stanford

University.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Karin Adams, my freshman year biology teacher

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Two words: underwater handstand

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: First day of high school. It’s when you realize how

puny and insignificant you are compared to the hopelessly large and

mature seniors.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: Everybody, and not just those pictured here, will

one day have their day in the sun.

NAME: Alan Chin

GPA: 4.71

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Marching band, drum line, jazz band, Academy for

the Performing Arts Orchestra, John Philip Sousa Award, Bank of America

Certificate in music, AP Scholar with distinction, UCLA Regents Scholar,

National Merit Scholarship winner, Robert C. Byrd Scholarship, Orange

County Chinese American Chamber of Commerce Scholarship and salutatorian

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Irvine Chinese School

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: Dance like nobody’s watching, and love like its

never going to hurt.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Going to New Orleans with my high school

band -- it changed my life.

SUMMER PLANS: Sleeping, relaxing and preparing for college

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Major in biology to become a surgeon. I

plan to attend UCLA.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Gregg Gilboe, the music director. He taught me that

life is a series of ups and downs. But if you keep going, you’ll make it.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Becoming drum major of the marching band

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Being told the band was too rowdy when I was in

charge

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: One day we will return to a time when people are

known by their names instead of statistics or identification numbers.

When students are no so worried about grade-point averages and test

scores, but want to have fun in high school discovering themselves.

COAST HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: Annia Castano

GPA: 3.67

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Coast High School Student Achievement Award

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “I have a message: Save your generation. We’re

killing each other. Try sleeping in... Survival never goes out of style.”

-- Blake Schwarzenbach of Jawbreaker

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Looking back at all the achievements I’ve

surpassed

SUMMER PLANS: Continuing cosmetology classes and working part time

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: The calculator kids

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I plan to graduate from cosmetology

school and pursue a career in it.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Charlotte Roberts

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: I’m most proud of having control of my life

and being happy.

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: My most humbling moment was when I received a C in

algebra my freshman year.

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: My generation will be very successful and happy. I

hope we make our parents proud.

HUNTINGTON BEACH ADULT SCHOOL

NAME: Mark Griswold

GPA: 3.0

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Outstanding Graduate, class of 2000

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Currently training with the Community Emergency

Response Team, city of Huntington Beach

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Use it, don’t let it use you!” -- J. Kevin

O’Shaunessy, an old high school teacher from a private school in Cape

Cod, Mass.

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Graduating and being asked to speak at my

high school graduation

SUMMER PLANS: Work and water ski with my wife and children

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: David Ross Griswold Jr., my father

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Exploring the endless possibilities of

education

FAVORITE TEACHER: All my teachers are my favorites. They were most

patient and encouraging. Thank you to all teachers.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: High school graduation

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Being chosen to speak at my high school graduation

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: My children can learn from my shortcomings and not

have to do those things themselves.

MARINA HIGH SCHOOL:

NAME: Huy Dang

GPA:4.71

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: President of Key Club, academic decathlon team

captain, newspaper front-page editor, National Merit Scholar, AP Scholar,

and Golden Shield Plaque in science and medallions in English, math and

social science

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: More than 300 hours of community service through

the Key Club, Community Development Council food packaging coordinator,

Project CHERISH volunteer at Rodgers Seniors’ Center and March of Dimes

Leadership Council

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Do not follow where the path may lead, go instead

where there is not path and leave a trail.” -- Muriel Strode

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Going to the UCLA Regents Scholarship

luncheon

SUMMER PLANS: Tutoring, traveling, relaxing and hanging out with friends

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Mom and dad

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: To major in computer science at Stanford

University

FAVORITE TEACHER: Jean Legere because he always supports me and believes

in my ability to succeed

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Getting a 1580 on the SAT

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Knowing that I earned a B in my AP United States

history class

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: There will be peace in the world, cures will be

found for every disease and everyone will be happy.

NAME: Kathryn Jones

GPA:4.71

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Associated Student Body commissioner of education,

junior class vice president, varsity field hockey most valuable player,

first team all-league, varsity soccer, Golden Shields in science and

history, top first-year chemistry student, American Chemical Society

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: National Charity League and Club Soccer for

Wolfpack Soccer Club

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Love like you’ve never been hurt; work like you

don’t need the money; dance like nobody’s watching.”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Making the finals in field hockey this year

SUMMER PLANS: Work for the first part of the summer, and then take the

month of July off to travel with friends in Europe

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My parents (I know it’s obvious.)

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Major in business and go on to law

school, eventually become a lawyer

FAVORITE TEACHER: Steve Johnson. He personally cared about his students

and made an extra effort to show he cared by doing things like attending

sporting events.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: When I got my most valuable player recognition

in field hockey. I was elected by my teammates.

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When I found out which colleges I wasn’t accepted

into

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: Someday I’ll make enough money to pay my dad back

for all the damage I’ve done to my car.

NAME: Salman Alam

GPA: 4.69

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Varsity basketball; editor-in-chief of the school

newspaper, Volsunga; president of Kiwins; National Honor Society

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Former president and secretary of youth group at

local mosque and involved in Project CHERISH, which helps elderly members

of the community.

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: “Keep your fears to yourself, but share your

courage with others.” -- Robert Louis Stevenson

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: There was no single event, rather if was the

journey that was momentous.

SUMMER PLANS: I am planning to take a trip overseas.

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: My uncle and mentor, K. Alam

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I will major in history at UC Berkeley. I

am undecided as far as career choice.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Bruce Osborne. He is one of the biggest reasons why I

plan to major in history.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Having the perseverance and dedication to play

basketball all four years

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Taking AP calculus

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: One day, someone can honestly say that I helped make

his or her life better.

EDISON HIGH SCHOOL

NAME: William Chan

GPA: 4.63

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Quiz bowl in the academic decathlon, character

coalition, varsity tennis and National Merit Scholarship finalist

FAVORITE MOTTO/QUOTE: o7 Vir Melanchonicus,f7 which is Latin for “the

melancholy life”

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Seeing my friend Sameer Khan, stopped at the

metal detector at Heathrow airport

SUMMER PLANS: Hope to go back to visit China and take a two-week trip to

Europe

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Father Albert Chan inspired me to achieve more

and get admitted to Stanford.

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: Planning to major in computer science at

Stanford and get a computer-oriented job

FAVORITE TEACHER: Shari Steadman. She is the kindest and most loving

teacher I have ever known. She truly cared for the welfare of her

students.

ACHIEVEMENT MOST PROUD OF: Getting into Stanford

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: Having to be carried off the tennis courts like a

baby after spraining my ankle

NAME: Sean Sha

GPA: 4.56

ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS: Church fellowship group; science honors society,

math club, quiz bowl, academic decathlon; National Merit Scholarship;

Chancellor’s Scholarship for UC Berkeley; and Golden Key in science and

social studies.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of First Baptist Church in Fountain Valley

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MOMENT: Driving to Joanna Overman’s house and giving

her a stuffed animal mole for Christmas

SUMMER PLANS: Spend time with friends and learn tennis

MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON: Jesus Christ

COLLEGE MAJOR AND FUTURE PLANS: I plan to go to UC Berkeley, and major in

electrical engineering and computer science. Future plans are to become

the chief executive officer of IBM.

FAVORITE TEACHER: Joanna Overman

MOST HUMBLING MOMENT: When others tell me I’m proud and mean

I HAVE A DREAM THAT: There will be no outcasts, and all will have close

friends in which they can confide all and just talk to.