By: Valerie Sandoval

SAN JOSE, CALIF. — Rachel Park is getting ready to leave Silver Creek High School this year, as she is excited to start a new chapter by heading off to college and continuing her studies. Get to know Park and her high school career.

Park has been at Creek all four years and has been a great student all while making great memories. When asked about her overall experience, she answered “When I first came to Silver Creek I was a very shy and reserved person, but as soon as I met upperclassmen they guided me to become outspoken. Which helped me be more open and have many more memories.” 

Park also mentioned that part of her high school experience was affected because of COVID-19. She expressed that many plans she had were ruined. She fell behind a bit with her understanding of math since online learning was a bit rough and couldn’t interact with teachers and students. Still, she continued to progress in school.

Senior Rachel Park 

                                              Photo Credit: Rachel Park

As Park proceeded she still continued to focus on her studies during her Junior year, she took four AP classes and it really wasn’t the best idea, she expressed “ I threw myself into all the AP classes in Junior year, and looking back that wasn’t the smartest decision. Please do not think of doing that!” Although Park had many obstacles during her four years of high school, she still managed to make the most out of her Senior year. She had the most fun in her last year, Rachel said “Unlike my Junior year where I was focusing more on my studies. I started getting more out there, trying out new clubs like Kpop, and doing many more events.” Park expressed that doing more things really helped her make more of those memorable experiences. 

Focusing more on her clubs, Park is the president of Silver Creek Band, and she has been with them for all four years. She revealed that she’ll be pretty sad, and leaving them will be like leaving her own children in a sense. “It’s going to be kinda sad seeing them in graduation play for me, but it’s a good change and we’ve had really good memories!”

Now moving forward, she’s very thrilled about transitioning to college and the significant changes she has planned. Park is fully committed to UC Santa Cruz, and plans on moving closer to be more local so she doesn’t have to commute every day.  

Separate from her studies, she plans on looking for a job to have more experience with work life. Park also mentioned that she’d love to do much more volunteering, as she loved, and found joy in helping others and getting involved. “I remember doing volunteering, I loved it so much.”

Toward the end of the interview, Park was asked for any advice she may have for her underclassmen. “Throughout high school manage your time well, but also remember to check up on yourself and treat yourself once in a while. Study of course, and please don’t procrastinate. But please just have fun!” Park has had some very tough and fun experiences, although she has things she wishes she could redo, now she can move on and start something new. Best of luck to Park and the rest of her education journey.