Name: Meera

Graduation Year: 2029

Middle School: Black Pine Circle

Hometown: Berkeley

Campus Involvement: Last year, I participated in cross country and track. Cross country, being a fall sport, really helped me solidify my freshman year friendships. Track was really fun as well, and bonding with the team was awesome. This year, I'm participating in the fall musical production of Legally Blonde, and I'm also going to be a Green Team Leader. Lastly, I was also in Jazz Band last year, which allowed me to nurture my love of music regularly.

Why did you choose College Prep? I sat in on a College Prep English class in 8th grade, and I was immediately drawn to how collaborative the environment was. Everyone was building off of each other's points and really listening to one another. I think the community fostered at College Prep (between the students, teachers, etc.) is just something that you can't find anywhere else, and my visit day absolutely showed me that. I also loved the campus :).

What is the biggest difference between middle school and high school? The responsibilities and freedom. My middle school was pretty teacher/administrator driven, so the amount of liberty CPS students have -starting clubs, hosting bake sales- was definitely a bit of a culture shock! I definitely appreciate the amount of freedom we have now, though, because it's really given me the opportunity to explore my interests deeply and advocate for things I care about.

What is your favorite character from a movie/book/television series? Kaz Brekker from the Six of Crows duology- he's cunning and devious :)