Q: What’s something you learned the hard way in high school that you think defines your journey?

A: “One hardship that I believe defined the rest of my high school years was realizing that sometimes you have to figure things out on your own, and people may not always have the time to help. There were moments throughout my years at Syosset when I was truly alone, without aid, and had to work through challenges by myself. However, those moments were when I learned how to teach myself new things, push past obstacles, and even help others with problems I had previously struggled with. Struggling on your own is truly challenging, but those who learn to grow independently are the ones best able to handle the hardest situations life throws at them.”