Do you have a favorite quote?
“So many people are shut up tight inside themselves like boxes, yet they would open up, unfolding quite wonderfully, if only you were interested in them.” -Sylvia Plath
What High School do you attend?
Oak Hills High School.
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I live with my parents, who are both artists, with my mom being a milliner and my dad a graphic designer. We watch Survivor together every Wednesday night! I have an older brother who is also graduating college this year, except he will be finishing his bachelor’s degree in animation. Even with him away in Chicago, I have a full house, with two corgis and two cats.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on studying film at Ohio University next fall. After that, I have no clue. I know I love movies, but I have no idea where I’ll be in five years. I hope to find my niche and my role in the world while I’m in college.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
With my senior year coming to an end, I’m kind of savoring my last weeks as a highschooler. I think I would say all of the classic answers- anywhere sunny and new would be exciting.
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I enjoy all kinds of movies, from horror to rom-coms. But if I can only convince you to watch one of my favorites, it would be Lars and the Real Girl starring Ryan Gosling. From the poster, the movie may look like a raunchy comedy, but it is actually an incredibly empathetic look at loneliness and community. It’s free on Youtube and I can’t recommend it enough!
If you could give advice to the freshman class, what would you say?
The day that I stopped worrying about how my every move would be perceived was the day I started enjoying high school so much more. When you dress however you want and aren’t afraid to be yourself, you attract people who are similar to you. I also have recently tried to say yes more. Obviously this mindset has its limits, but I really think getting involved in any clubs and opportunities available to you can help you feel connected to your community.
If you were able to be cast as yourself into a television show or series, what show would you want to be in?
I’ve adored the cartoon Adventure Time since I was a kid and I think it would be so cool to live in that fantastical world with all sorts of creatures and magic.
If you could choose anyone past or present to have lunch with, who would you choose? Why? And where, locally, would you meet for this lunch?
Jane Goodall has been one of my biggest heroes for years. I adore primates and love her empathetic view of researching them. I also admire her efforts for sustainability and protecting the planet. She has such a calm and reassuring energy. I would bring her to Aroma’s Java Cafe, which is a lovely local cafe and my go-to-spot for studying and talking with friends.
What is your favorite thing about our community?
I love when Cincinnatians are weird. From cryptids to the ventriloquest museum, there is no shortage of unique places run by lovely, strange people.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
My big wishes are that I am happy with a great circle of friends and feel that I am contributing to the world in a positive way. If those pieces are there, then I am open to whatever path I end up on, whether that’s working on movie sets or helping at summer camps forever.
What is something on your bucket list?
I would love to go to one of the big film festivals, like Sundance or TIFF. On a similar note, my dad loves music festivals, and I think that would be a super cool experience as well.
What is your go to music when you can’t decide what to listen to?
I love some good surf rock- you can never go wrong with the Beach Boys!
Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I love October! Great weather and it’s Halloween season, which means the best movies and decorations are out.
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The Juno soundtrack, Buffalo Wild Wings’ cauliflower wings, Lucy & Yak’s wide leg jeans, and Joseph Beth Booksellers
What is one thing that most people do not know about you?
I love baby birds. I think their wrinkly skin and weird little bodies are cute.
Who inspires you to be better?
Every act of kindness from my friends, family and even strangers has made me a little bit better. From passing compliments in the hallway to people remembering your favorite food, I am surrounded by little reminders that I can improve the days of others.
