Bruton High School - Class of 2026

Jecy Koak

GPA: 4.7619

High School Extracurricular activities: Asian Student Association (Cofounder & Copresident 11th & 12th), Future Business Leaders of America President (11th & 12th) & VP (10th), National Honors Society President (12th), Fellowship of Christian Athletes Huddle Leader (10th - 12th), Student Council Association VP (12th), BHS Varsity Girls Tennis Team (11th & 12th), School of the Arts Dancer (9th - 12th), Key Club Member (10th - 12th), Mu Alpha Theta (11th & 12th), Rho Kappa (11th & 12th), Chemistry Honors Society (11th & 12th), Green Club (10th & 11th), Spanish Honors Society (10th & 12th), Sophomore Class office VP (10th), & Panther Achievement Leaders (11th & 12th).

Community involvement: YCSD Internship at Magruder Elementary School, York County Youth Commission District 1 Representative, Korean School Teacher's Assistant, Participant/Leader in Vacation Bible School at New Life Presbyterian Church, & Server at the Huntsman's Grill

College attending: University of Virginia

Studying/Major: Public Policy and Leadership

Were there any teachers or mentors who played a significant role in shaping your academic journey? If so, how? Ms. Blanquette Valledor is one of the best teachers that has the ability to activate a student's mind and searches for strategies to foster deep cognitive thinking. She has helped me to develop arguments and find greater meaning/interpretation behind any text. Ms. Valledor's literature expertise supports any individual to build their reading comprehension and understanding. She has stimulated my enthusiasm to learn again during my senior year. Mrs. Tanya Song has been a constant supporter throughout my middle school and high school years. As my youth group leader and a vital figure in my community, she has believed that I could achieve greater than I could ever hope for. Through thoughts and prayers, Mrs. Song has given my family the strength and confidence with guidance.

What was the most useful advice you have received from someone about high school? The fear of doing is scarier than the actual action. The anxiety and hesitance in doing anything in high school will prevent you from living. Learning is privilege, whether that is through sitting in a classroom or the experience of trying new things. Look for and participate in every opportunity that comes your way. Do not limit yourself to your current skills, adapt. The people and experiences you have can change your life and shape it for the better.

What was your favorite class you've taken in high school and why? My favorite class that I have taken in high school is either Algebra II Trig class with Mrs. Schlief or Dance Arts (all four years) with Mrs. Knight. Algebra II Trig built a foundation of knowledge for math throughout high school with the best teacher, Mrs. Schlief. Dance Arts with the loving and caring Mrs. Knight will hold a special place in my memories through countless performances filled with the best people.

If you could create one new rule (or change a rule) at your high school, what would it be and why? I would create the rule of employing teachers that have had recent guided AP course training to ensure productive learning for students. The criteria for the outmost sufficient education for students should be imperative in a school environment. The excitement and encouragement of developing youth knowledge should be the top priority in a school.

What is your most memorable experience or highlight from your high school years? As Bruton's Future Business Leaders of America President, my most memorable experience was going to the FBLA state competition in Reston, VA. I made lasting memories and friendship that I will always think about when reminiscing my years in high school.

Adam Ramirez

GPA: 4.7173

High School Extracurricular activities: Jefferson Lab Mentorship, Football, Wrestling

Community involvement: Volunteering with YVC

College attending: University of Virginia

Studying/Major: Mechanical Engineering

Tell us about a person or experience that has had a significant impact in your life? My father has had a significant impact on my life. He taught me to be a hard worker and to be honest.

What was the most useful advice you have received from someone about high school? The most useful advice I learned about high school was to not sell yourself short. There are opportunities everywhere and you can't doubt your abilities.

What was your favorite class you've taken in high school and why? My favorite class I've taken was Calculus-Based Engineering Physics II. That class changed the way I see the world and had many great experiments.

What school tradition or experience will you miss the most? I will miss football games the most.

What is your most memorable experience or highlight from your high school years? My highlight was the senior symposium at GSST. I presented my project from Jeferson Lab to my peers and experts in my field.