Complete AP5 Booklet 2020

RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Highest Achievers on Advanced Placement Exams AP Exams are reported on a 5-point scale 5 – EXTREMELY WELL QUALIFIED 4 – WELL QUALIFIED 3 – QUALIFIED 2 – POSSIBLY QUALIFIED 1 – NO RECOMMENDATION The students featured in this booklet earned a 5 on an Advanced Placement Exam in May 2020; they were 10th and 11th graders at the time.



Kaylen Aguilar (11th grade) Peyton Barfield (11th grade) AP Psychology AP Psychology AP World History College plans: Mercer University College plans: Liberty University or Tulane University 10 years: In ten years, I plan on 10 years: In ten years, My plans graduating medical school. are to obtain a PhD in school psychology. I will be supporting Houston County Board of Education as a HCBE School Psychologist assisting children, “Taking your first AP class is one of the most families and teachers in the areas stressful yet rewarding experiences in high of academia, social, emotional, and behavioral needs school. I took two AP classes sophomore year of students. and decided to make 5s on both exams, no matter “I was unsure about taking advanced AP social how far-fetched that goal seemed. My advice is studies class as a sophomore after Mrs. Martin to practice, practice, practice, instead of suggested AP Psychology during preregistration. reading notes.” Her advice and experience working with me as a Amaya Bass (11th grade) freshman provided me the education and ability to prepare. My psychology teacher, AP Psychology Dr. Jenrette, not only made the class College plans: Florida State challenging but fun in creating ways relating University the vast topics and areas of study. Even 10 years: In ten years, hope to be during COVID-19 on-line work, Dr. Jenrette went married and have started a family. I am out of his way pushing students to preparing not sure what career I want to pursue yet, for the end-of-year exam. What I thought at but it will most likely be the time was an intensive workload proved to be something in the sports, or medical field. exactly the material needed for the AP exam. If it had not been for the dedication and efforts of Dr. Jenrette, I know in no way I “This was my first AP class I had ever taken. I would have been able to achieve this milestone had no idea what to expect for the AP exam and as a sophomore.” was so stressed out about it. Even though I had Josiah Campbell (11th grade) been studying nonstop for over a month I didn’t AP Psychology know if I had done enough. I was terrified the College plans: morning of the exam. But I remember as soon as 10 years: that first question popped up everything I had done to prepare myself came flooding back. For the first time I felt that I knew exactly what I was doing on a test. I still did not think I would get a 5, but I felt I wouldn’t fail either.” Savanna Carr (12th grade) AP Psychology College plans: Undecided 10 years: In ten years, I see myself just having a good time. “Don’t worry, be happy.”

Sayanna Castro (11th grade) Youjin Chun (11th grade) AP Psychology AP Psychology College plans: University of AP Statistics Georgia College plans: Georgia Institute of 10 years: In ten years, I hope to Technology be a resident physician in the field 10 years: In ten years, I see myself of internal medicine. working hard to obtain my Ph.D.. “Although it is rather improbable for many “Listen to your teacher and do what he/she students to be able to properly pace tells you to do! It may seem unnecessary, but themselves throughout an entire AP course it's going to push you towards your optimal without fail (myself included), I’ve found goal in that class. Also, whenever you are that going into it with an open mind, and confused, don't hesitate to ask questions. It's allowing oneself to take in as much always better to reach out for help.” information as he/she possibly can, could be of greater benefit than expected.” Melissa Do (11th grade) John Freezor (12th grade) AP Psychology AP US History College plans: Emory University College plans: University of 10 years: In ten years, I see Georgia myself hopefully graduating from 10 years: In ten years, I see Emory medical school and striving myself becoming a mechanical to achieve a specialization in engineer and working on whichever medical specialty I cars/machines. choose to study. “I walked into AP Psychology, an unknowing sophomore, taking the course because others “Major props to everyone who got 5s despite the older than me convinced me to. However, this coronavirus.” course has changed the way that I view human nature and has taught me things about myself that I had yet to discover. This course led me Emily Grady (11th grade) to have confidence in myself and revealed that AP World History those around me go through the same College plans: Undecided developments and predicaments that I do. I will 10 years: In ten years, I hope to never forget the struggles I faced as I took have gotten an undergraduate each 50 question test; however, if I could go degree and will either be working back in time, I wouldn't change a thing about towards a higher degree or have the course.” started my professional career doing something that I am passionate about. “I am grateful for the commitment of my AP teacher, even during a pandemic, and for the experience that the class gave me.”

Hannah Grady (11th grade) Ashton Hummell (11th grade) AP Psychology AP Psychology College plans: Undecided AP World History 10 years: In ten years, I see College plans: While my final myself in a career in a math or destination is still uncertain, I wish science based field. to attend Mercer University. 10 years: In ten years, I wish to be working within the CIA or FBI as an employee within the Intelligence gathering programs available. “The AP Psychology course was one of my “If it wasn't for the dedication and favorite classes to take. It introduced me to proactiveness of my teachers during the Covid-19 studying human behavior from a scientific shutdown of our school year to continuously standpoint, which was very interesting.” provide us students with the information needed to continue to succeed along the course of the Daniel Grigsby (12th grade) program, then I would not have received this AP Computer Science Principles email. So for that, I dedicate this recognition AP US History of my accomplishments wholly to my AP educators, College plans: Georgia Institute who helped not just me but all of their charges of Technology prevail.” 10 years: In ten years, I see myself following my passion of Coral Jackson (12th grade) computer science. AP US History College plans: University of Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I hope “AP has provided me with some of the most to be a medical resident at a memorable moments of my high school career. I major medical center focusing on will never forget the group study sessions or learning the practice of psychiatry. specifically going to my AP Chemistry class every morning before school. I look forward to being able to use the skills I have gained from teachers for their “I want to thank all of my AP each of my AP classes to guide me in my future. helping me prepare time and dedication in From AP I have gained a better understanding of for my AP exams even though what it takes to be an honor student and the the change to online learning. They are the skills necessary to succeed.” best, most hardworking teachers I could ask for.” Lukas Kriechbaum (12th grade) AP Computer Science Principles College plans: Brown University or Hamilton College 10 years: In ten years, I hope to be making a difference and leaving a positive impact. “Each class is what you make it, so have fun with what you’re doing and you’ll never have a boring da in class.”

Rumi Lee (12th grade) Emily Lange (12th grade) AP English Lang & Composition AP Environmental Science College plans: Undecided College plans: Undecided 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I hope myself being successful and to have a successful career that I satisfied in whatever paths I enjoy doing. choose to take. “You are capable of doing many extraordinary “AP classes can definitely be challenging, but things, starting with teaching yourself with hard work and effort, anyone can do well.” anything you want and need to learn.” Kemp McArthur (11th grade) Averi Martin (12th grade) AP World History AP English Lang & Composition College plans: Best case College plans: Valdosta State scenario, Princeton University University 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I want myself functioning in a teaching to be finishing up medical school role, for either social studies or and start my career as a plastic music. If I teach social studies it surgeon. would be for high school, but I would like to teach music on the university level. “AP classes are tough, they're not easy, and you “AP World History has given me a different lens have to work hard. But the pride you get in with which I can view the world and its passing the final exam and getting college people.” credit for the class is worth all the struggles. It's an accomplishment that many people are too Christian Nguyen (11th grade) afraid to take on, but those that do are rewarded for their drive.” AP Computer Science Principles College plans: Emory University 10 years: In ten years, I could Angela Okechukwu see myself in residency to become (11th grade) a doctor in the idle field and AP Psychology working hard to help those around College plans: Undecided me. 10 years: In ten years, I see myself working in therapy. “I remember one time in my computer science class, our teacher assigned us a project to write up code that would create a piece of art. We were able to work in groups which made the “Do your homework and class work.” process that much more enjoyable. Just being able to code fun images and communicate with classmates was a memory I will never forget.”

Jacob Medlin (12th grade) Erin Mondock (11th grade) AP Environmental Science AP Psychology College plans: Georgia Institute College plans: University of of Technology or Clemson Georgia University 10 years: In ten years, I hope 10 years: In ten years, I see to have graduated with a master’s myself having graduated college degree in marketing, and work for with an engineering degree and a company whose brand I am working to provide for my passionate about. family. “A key moment that stands out from my AP “AP Psychology had a captivating curriculum. The Environmental Science class was our field trip day-to-day lessons were always very interesting, to Crystal River, Florida. This field trip is and grabbed my attention, easing my ability to an iconic experience associated with the class obtain the information. In addition to the and did not disappoint. We visited Homosassa interesting lessons, Dr. Jenrette was also very Springs Wildlife State Park, and swam with imperative in my success in the course. We did manatees up close! Mrs. Collier did a great job various activities in class and always went over managing this exciting trip, which provided units thoroughly. He always wanted the best for many memorable moments with classmates. It also his students and put in hard work as a teacher taught me a lot about wildlife, and energized to make sure we were equipped with all the my learning experience for the rest of the knowledge we needed to do our best in the course year. I would definitely recommend taking AP and on the exam.” Environmental and participating in this field trip if you can!” Emily Partain (12th grade) AP English Lang & Composition Cheluchi Nwagbata College plans: University of (12th grade) Georgia AP English Lang & Composition 10 years: In ten years, I hope College plans: University of to be a college graduate with a Michigan degree and job in marketing, 10 years: In ten years, I see combining my passion for myself as a self-employed business and creativity with my automotive engineer who does love for art. what I have always loved. “I am grateful for Houston County High School “It wasn't always easy sitting in those AP and my teachers for providing me with incredible classes, but it was always worth it when I academic and extracurricular opportunities that finally 'got it'. When I was able to grasp that have encouraged me to push myself and reach a new concept or that new way of thinking, it higher potential that has allowed me to learn justified those hours spent in frustration and about myself on the way to accomplishing new confusion. I'm glad that I challenged myself things.” with AP, because it has helped me rise up to difficult challenges and keep persevering until I finally 'get it'.”

Milan Patel (12th grade) Sejal Patel (11th grade) AP English Lang & Composition AP Psychology College plans: Mercer AP World History University or Georgia Institute of College plans: Undecided Technology 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself hopefully pursuing a myself using the skills I have medical career and training to be learned throughout my high in the healthcare field. school & college experience, and helping the community grow as a whole. I want to help improve the community around me. “I frequently reflect on the dedication of my teachers after school was initially cancelled “My AP language teacher helped us by always due to Covid. My teachers worked to create giving these quizzes and always helping us assignments and zooms to prepare us for the prepare for the AP exam. She always helps us exams. Even before school was cancelled, Mrs. with writing our essays and helping us improve McDaniel would have review nights to prep for our essay. Her teaching style is what made it the exam which shows her care for her so I could understand the information and that students.” I did really good on the exam.” Shiv Patel (11th grade) Ethan Pellegrino (12th grade) AP Psychology AP US History College plans: Emory University College plans: Florida State, 10 years: In ten years, I see Georgia, North Carolina or East myself in a residency program for Carolina a medical profession, as I would 10 years: In ten years, I see have already completed my 8 myself working as a meteorologist years of education after high for NWS, NOAA or local news. school. “AP Psychology was the first AP class I have “I worked very hard to achieve this score and I taken. Not only did it challenge me greatly appreciate my AP US History teacher, academically and introduce me to the life of Mr. Nguyen, for preparing me very well for this college-level classes, but it also sparked an exam.” interest of psychology and science that I have decided to pursue. Jarod Pollard (12th grade) The time and effort put into this class was AP English Lang & Composition definitely worth it.” College plans: Undecided 10 years: In ten years, I see myself trying to discover a new particle, or maybe helping people in psychology. “Maybe if they gave me different topic I would have been screwed, but allow a fish to swim in a river instead of making it climb a tree and you'll find it can go miles.”

Emma Ringe (12th grade) Juliette Rosario (11th grade) AP Calculus BC AP Psychology AP Chemistry College plans: Kennesaw State AP English Lang & Composition University AP US History 10 years: In ten years, I see College plans: Undecided myself working as a microbiologist 10 years: In ten years, I hope at the Centers for Disease Control to be on my way to a PhD in and Prevention in Atlanta. mathematics. “Thank you to all of my amazing AP teachers “I would like to thank my psychology teacher, last year to ensure that I had the resources Dr. Jenrette, for my success in the AP and information to be prepared for my AP exams Psychology exam. The way he taught the course this year with the sudden transition to online made psychology easy to understand. He did learning! Special shout-out to Mr. Brock, Mrs. everything he could possible to make all of his Nguyen, and Mrs. Byrd!” students succeed, including me. Thank you, Dr. Jenrette!” Benjamin Said (12th grade) AP Chemistry David Schmitz (11th grade) AP US History AP Psychology College plans: University of College plans: Georgia or Georgia Institute of 10 years: Technology 10 years: In ten years, I see myself working at a technology company using my degree in chemical engineering that I want to pursue in college. If not, I may still be pursuing a higher degree at a graduate school. Ideally, I hope that my financial situation is stable enough so that I can have enough money to spend on bills and student loan payments while also being able to purchase luxury Hannah Sheppard (11th grade) goods. Overall, I want to be at the peak of my scientific AP Psychology knowledge of the world but still having the urge to go College plans: Undecided the extra mile and learn just that much more about the 10 years: In ten years, I would world around me. like to be studying medicine and “Every day that I walked into my AP Chemistry training to be a healthcare classroom, I knew that I was in for a provider. productive lecture about what I didn’t know about the world. Whenever the concepts clicked in my head, the feeling was beyond satisfying. It was that satisfaction that drove me to decide to pursue a STEM career. My most devout “I appreciated the practice provided by College thank you to Mrs. Byrd for opening my eyes to Board and Dr. Jenrette to help prepare me to do the infinitely interesting world of chemistry. my best on the AP exam. I enjoyed participating in the club, Psych Society, which coincided with this course.”

Aly Watson (12th grade) Victoria Teague (11th grade) AP Biology AP Psychology College plans: Georgia AP World History Institute of Technology College plans: Berry College 10 years: In ten years, 10 years: In ten years, I see hopefully I will be working at a myself graduating with a research institute or lab. Bachelor's degree in anatomy, finishing medical school, and starting a residency to become an infectious diseases pathologist or internal medicine doctor. “Highs school is a balancing act between “Dr. Jenerette makes the AP Psychology course academics, social life, and family. However, both relatable and engaging. The light with good time management and drive, anything classwork helps balance out the daily homework, is possible.” making the course stress-free. Throughout the year, students will learn hundreds of Julia Whilden (12th grade) psychology terms, and the exam is just an AP English Lang & Composition application of these terms. I highly recommend College plans: University of students taking this course take the exam.” Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I see Justin Whilby (12th grade) myself loving English just as AP Environmental Science much as I currently do. I hope to AP US History use it to start a career that I College plans: Stanford love. University 10 years: In ten years, I see myself as a practicing “Life is a book, and there are a thousand pages immigration attorney. I have not yet read.” - Cassandra Clare.” Isabella Voigt (12th grade) “Reflecting on my time in A.P Environmental AP English Lang & Composition Science, I want to thank my teacher, Mrs. College plans: University of Collier, for not only being an amazing teacher, Georgia but a phenomenal role model. Her love for her 10 years: In ten years, I see class and her students definitely shows in myself being a pharmacist in everything she does. It is Mrs. Collier's Georgia. colorful and inspiring personality that allowed me to succeed, and most of all, enjoy Environmental Science.” “My AP chemistry teacher, Mrs. Byrd, made me feel very passionate for chemistry and pharmacy. She always believed in me and made me more confident and made me believe in myself.”

Josiah Druhl (12th grade) Rebecca Thomas (12th grade) AP Psychology AP Statistics College plans: University of College plans: Middle Georgia Georgia State University 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself in a major career field myself having graduated college such as dentistry or computer with a degree in Forensic Science science and having a Crime Scene Analyst position or something “My most fond memory in an AP class would similar. I also hope to own my probably the class discussions in our house by this time. AP US Gov/Pol class. It was very interesting and enlightening to hear all the different views that came from the 9 or so people that took the class that year. Mr. Smith was a very good teacher for that particular class.”

Maximus Genio (12th grade) Damon Negron (12th grade) AP English Lang & Composition AP Environmental Science College plans: Georgia Institute College plans: Valdosta State of Technology University 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I plan on myself working as a transportation becoming a trauma medicine or humanitarian-based supply specialist and working in an chain engineer. emergency room. “The AP Lang course takes your prior knowledge “I definitely would like to give credit for my about writing and develops it to a point of score to Mrs. Barajas. Not only did she make real-world application! It helps you both write sure we learned all the necessary material and and think about real world problems through more, but she did so in a fun and entertaining articles, speeches, and other devices.” way. Without her love, encouragement, and gift for teaching, I definitely would not have done Austen Leslie (12th grade) as well!” AP Computer Science A Jacob Overton (11th grade) College plans: Georgia Institute AP Environmental Science of Technology College plans: Undecided 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself programming the next myself hopefully as a Marine Biologist, iPhone or walking around and at least right now. knowing that some satellite above my head was crucially touched by some code I wrote or some piece of technology I made. “AP is more than just the more difficult to “Put all of your effort into everything you do, classes. Yes they are college classes, but because it might be the last chance you have to those classes are the gateway to the future, do it.” getting closer to your dreams. AP helped me realize what I wanted to Charles Shelton (12th grade) do with my life in a way normal high school AP English Lang & Composition classes could never do.” College plans: Savannah Landyn King (12th grade) College of Art & Design AP English Lang & Composition 10 years: In ten years, I will be College plans: Kennesaw State working towards being a full time University or Valdosta State actor and writer in Atlanta. University 10 years: In ten years, I see myself probably still in college or at a job with my computer science “I find that many people, including myself at degree. If things go well maybe times, believe that their luck in high school something in the realm of writing carries into college level classes. Tom scripts or competitive swimming. Hiddleston once said that ‘everything is “My theater teacher, Mr. Joseph Sendek, allowed possible, and nothing is guaranteed.’ I had to for me to make myself a better person. My employ that mindset to get a five. Luck will freshman year I was a quiet kid who didn’t not get you that good score. work will. After really do much other than swim. Thanks to all, you have to write if you want to be a good Sendek, I was able to create my personality to writer.” help make the people around me happier.”

Amadita Singh (12th grade) Kaylee Stone (11th grade) AP Statistics AP World History College plans: Georgia Institute College plans: University of of Technology Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself as an architect, and achieving myself as a surgeon. the highest post through my hard work. “I had Mrs. Frank as my AP Statistic teacher “Throughout the AP World History course it and she is undeniably the best teacher. I love proved to be considerably challenging. My her teaching style and way she understands us teacher was Dr. Courtney Herbert. I was always students which helps us improve. Because of extremely grateful to her for her time and coronavirus, we took our exam at home which was persistence on each and every student. During indeed a struggle but with supportive teachers, the school year she was always up front and friends and family, I was able to score a 5. We honest about the difficulty of the class, but zoomed almost every week and did tons of she always did everything in her power to revision which might seem a lot but it was for prepare us for the exam. Without Dr. Herbert as our future to brighten up.” my teacher I can honestly say I would not have performed as well on the exam.” Noelea Stone (12th grade) AP English Lang & Composition College plans: Valdosta State University 10 years: In ten years, I hope to have my life all figured out by then and working doing what I love during that time and making friends along the way. “All my AP teachers have strived to help me every day in class and even after school, and when we were quarantined they still never failed to try and prepare me for the exams and have zoom calls to go over worksheets and sometimes our mental health. I'd like to thank them for all the help I have received.”

Ansley Delaney (12th grade) Katherine Beasley (12th grade) AP Psychology AP Psychology College plans: Undecided College plans: Undecided 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I’ll be a myself finishing up with college and physician likely in the midst of a working towards opening my own residency. practice as a psychologist. “Seeing the questions on the AP Psychology exam and answering those questions with confidence gave me the satisfaction of knowing that all of the hard work I had put into the class was paying off. My teacher, Ms. Whiddon, did an Julia Bowling (12th grade) excellent job of making the content enjoyable AP English Lang & Composition and proving that there’s no reason to be College plans: Kennesaw intimidated by having to learn a lot of new University material.” 10 years: In ten years, I see myself teaching English in a high- school classroom. Christopher Brooks (12th grade) AP Statistics College plans: Georgia Institute of Technology 10 years: In ten years, I intend to be in Medical School or doing “In my junior year, it was safe to say that I my residency. had been depleted. Utterly and totally depleted. I felt done with school and already felt like I wanted to graduate. The stress of taking AP classes for the first time was really getting to me. Even previously, before that, I had always enjoyed English and loved reading “ During AP Stats this year Mrs. Morris always and writing, but something discouraged me to did her absolute best to help us prepare for stop following my passion, that was until I our exams, while making it as fun as possible. reached Dr. Thompson’s class. He was such a Her teaching is what helped me as well as I good English teacher, and the way he spoke and did, I couldn’t have done it without her.” taught really inspired me to become stronger with my English vocabulary and continue to follow my passion with English and then even choose to become an English teacher like him. So, all in all, I really thank AP Lang and Dr. Thompson for opening my eyes once again.”

Waymon Brooks (12th grade) Kaitlyn Brunelle (11th grade) AP US History AP Environmental Science College plans: University of College plans: University of Georgia Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I would myself inspiring others through like to become a dermatologist or my love of music as a middle or a principal of an elementary high school choir director. school. “ Being an AP student is such a memorable “Although AP environmental encompasses a wide experience because at the end of the day, variety of topics, Coach Horton made the class regardless of who you are, your extracurricular enjoyable and relevant to society. He presented activities, or your academic past, we all have the information in a fun manner and made it the same goal: to pass the exam. It’s such an appear as if we were just casually discussing amazing feeling after the exam to know all of the topics. I learned information that will your hard work has paid off, and it’s even stick with me throughout my life and I now know better when you’re surrounded by so many other how to be a better steward to the Earth. I am high-achieving peers that have pushed and grateful that Veterans High School offers this motivated you throughout the year. The amazing course and feel that all students would benefit friendships as well as teacher bonds that I from having this class.” have developed through the AP program are ones that I will cherish forever.” Phoebe Cara Caldwell (12th grade) Elizabeth Clark (12th grade) AP Chemistry AP Psychology AP Computer Science Principles College plans: University of AP English Lang & Composition Georgia AP US History 10 years: In ten years, I see College plans: Massachusetts myself being a dancer and/or Institute of Technology choreographer. 10 years: In ten years, I see myself researching chemistry with a university or company. ” Before the exams last year, especially since “AP Psychology is probably my favorite class they were digital, I can remember the extreme that I’ve taken in my three and a half years of uncertainty and trepidation myself and many high school. I found the class really other students felt due to the unusual interesting, and I highly recommend taking it, circumstances, but more than that, I remember especially if you have Ms. Whiddon.” how extremely hard our AP teachers worked to absolutely ensure we were as prepared as we could be to make sure our hard work during the year paid off.”

Olivia Clary (12th grade) Katherine Gibbs (11th grade) AP English Lang & Composition AP Statistics College plans: University of College plans: Georgia Institute of Georgia Technology 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself working for the USDA as a myself working in aerospace meat quality inspector and grader. engineering for NASA. ”When I found out I would have to take my exam “Mrs. Morris helped ease my nerves about the online, I was really worried. But even with test. She’s genuinely one of the best Google Classroom, Dr. Thompson made sure I was teachers I’ve ever had, and I was so lucky to more than ready for the exam.” have had her. She always believed in me, especially when I didn’t believe in myself, and I’m eternally grateful to have had her.” Alex Dyer (12th grade) Hiranya Fernando (12th grade) AP US History AP Psychology College plans: Georgia Institute of AP US History Technology College plans: University of 10 years: In ten years, I see Florida myself in the engineering field. 10 years: In ten years, I hope to be working a job I’m passionate about in a place I can be happy working. “The APUSH exam was surprisingly easy compared “AP Chemistry was full of interesting lessons to AP Chemistry.” and cool labs. Sometimes we would mess up on little problems and struggle, but despite Grace Harmon (12th grade) this, we all learned together and got through AP Computer Science Principles the little struggles together. There were College plans: Baylor University always times where things seemed impossible to 10 years: In ten years, I would finish or get past, especially during a like to be an ER nurse, helping certain titration lab where the measurements those who need it most. just seemed to be going wrong, but it was wonderful getting through it all and figuring it out together and not feeling lost and alone with the coursework. The whole year of AP classes was much better when there were others to go through it with.” “My 5 in AP Computer Science Principles was not something I was expecting at the beginning of the year. I knew nothing about computers or technology. This class and my amazing teacher taught me so many practical and useful skills.”

Elijah Hobbs (11th grade) Emma Hughes (12th grade) AP Statistics AP Studio Art 2D College plans: Georgia Institute of College plans: Georgia Southern Technology University 10 years: In ten years, I see 10 years: In ten years, I see myself engineering spacecrafts. myself as a self-employed jeweler. “Being in an AP class is pretty stressful “My fondest memories of Mrs. Harlow was her because the one class could send your average unending generosity and kindness for all tumbling down, tumbling down, tumbling down; students. Every day she makes every student but if you work hard and just keep dancing till feel safe and wanted in her classroom. Her the curtains fall, you’ll be fine.” nurturing of our art skills has made so many art students including myself, have confidence in our art as well as ready for college.” Parker Hodges (11th grade) Rebecca Kenney (12th grade) AP Environmental Science AP Computer Science Principles College plans: Undecided College plans: University of 10 years: I am uncertain of what Georgia my future career will be, however in 10 years: In ten years, I hope to 10 years I will either be enjoying be working in the medical field and the early years of my career or volunteering with Doctors Without completing my graduate degree. Borders. “Coach Horton was my AP Environmental Science teacher, as well as my cross country coach. Coach Horton is able to make learning a subject “From my AP computer science course, I both interesting and fun, regardless of how realized the immeasurable value of getting difficult it maybe. One example of a fun someone else’s perspective. It is so easy to project we did in Environmental Science was get caught up in the same cycle and miss the when Coach led us in creating a worm compost. big picture. Doing something as simple as We spent several weeks observing the worms in the new environment we created for them.” asking someone else what they think can allow you to see everything in a whole new way that would have been impossible without collaboration.”

Courtney Moorehead (12th grade) Amory Perman (12th grade) AP Studio Art AP English Lang & Composition College plans: Georgia Southern College plans: Louisiana State University University 10 years: In ten years, I see myself 10 years: In ten years, I see as a high school art teacher. myself serving as a criminal justice lawyer, working alongside others with the goal of reforming the justice system. “Mrs. Harlow is one of the best teachers I have “Sarah Harlow taught me to respect every stray ever had. She is exceedingly knowledgeable in brushstroke that can change a piece. Megan the arts, and has inspired me to care more Jones taught me to take one word from every about art history, which I am now really poem and make it my favorite until the next interested in. I can’t wait to be an art one we read. Alan Bowers taught me to never teacher one day where I hope I can inspire let a question fade from my mind without an young students, the way that Mrs. Harlow has answer. These incredible educators and every inspired me.” other AP teacher I’ve had have all allowed me to cherish every learning opportunity granted to me, and to make an opportunity out of every day.” Kyra Pennington (11th grade) AP Statistics College plans: Boston University 10 years: In ten years, I see Jasmine Reyes (12th grade) myself travelling the world teaching AP English Lang & Composition English to speakers of other College plans: University of languages. Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I will hopefuly be a financial analyst. “It was a joy to learn and know exactly what was on the test.” “There was a time in AP Chem when we were going over questions we were assigned on Anna Rasul (12th grade) college board. There was one question where AP English Lang & Composition almost the whole class got the answer wrong. Though we all were confused and slightly College plans: University of Georgia embarrassed, we decided to joke about it, as 10 years: In ten years, I see if failing together was a victory. It was myself becoming a dermatologist, nice to know that we all struggled with and I would have completed medical something together. Sometimes AP classes are so hard, we forget everyone is going through school. the same thing.” “Test day arrived and all my hard work is about to pay off. As I write my essay, the words come so naturally and I’ve never felt so confident in my work.”

Erica Smith (12th grade) Jaron Woods (12th grade) AP Psychology AP English Lang & Composition College plans: University of Georgia College plans: University of Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I hope to 10 years: My dream is to major in see myself having graduated with criminal justice and become a my bachelor's in psychology and a defense attorney. master's in counseling. I plan to pursue a career in the school counselor/academic advisor field. Eventually I would love to work at the university level advising team to help guide students in their courses and maintain a healthy outlook on life throughout their school years. “To say that AP psychology is merely a class would be a fib. This class brought me knowledge “For me, the most important thing I had going I can carry for a lifetime; allowing me to into the exam was confidence. If you walk into learn more about how our bodies work, why we the test with a clear strategy and knowing are the way we are, and find my passion along your subject, it becomes just like any other the way. Ms. Whiddon instructed our class is test. If you are under-prepared, you will such a way I fell in love with the art of spend a lot of valuable time second-guessing psychology. Because of an amazing teacher and your answers.” the best class I’ve ever chosen to take, I hope to carry this newfound understanding for years to come, helping to guide me in my future career.”

WARNER ROBINS HIGH SCHOOL Andrew Abrigo (12th Grade) Barrett Batten (12th Grade) AP English Lang & Comp AP European History College plans: Georgia Institute AP US History of Technology College plans: I’ve applied to 10 years: In ten years, I would Berry University, Baylor like to be solving questions in the University, Washington and Lee world of physics or being a University, Carnegie Mellon mechanical engineer. University, Duke University, and Pepperdine University. 10 years: In ten years, I’ll be 28 years old. By then, I expect to master business “When entering into Warner Robins, I had no administration to get admitted into law school. Once I idea how much I would learn and develop as a have completed my formal education, I plan to become student, friend, and adult. The AP program an agent for entertainment industries and sports enlightened me of the world in so many teams. Most importantly, I plan to begin raising a different subjects, ways of thinking, and led family during this time as well. me to form my own ideas on the world. In short, I am extremely thankful for this entire program “I was relieved to have finally received my at WRHS.” first AP course my sophomore year, after an entire freshman year of boring introductory Claudacia Clemmons classes, like health. Everyone knows AP (12th Grade) courses are the most challenging and quite demanding, yet I was still excited to enter AP English Lang & Comp Mr. Leskosky’s class for AP Government. Then, AP European History my perception of public education shifted College plans: I have applied dramatically. From that point forward, I’d to Georgia Tech and UGA for come across nearly a dozen teachers who early action. I plan to apply to absolutely loved their jobs, and they showed Princeton, Emory, Duke, this everyday by building relationships with Colombia, Mercer, Spelman, all of us and somehow making the rigorous Rice, and UVA courses enjoyable and worthwhile. Critics 10 years: In ten years I see propose that American public education is myself doing what I love to do subpar, and many claim it’s a waste of time. and traveling while I’m at it. However, teachers like Mr. Leskosky shine light on our education system and uncover a “Though the Exams this year were not bright future for public education. Therefore, I am so thankful for my AP experience and I traditional I felt very prepared for the exams feel truly blessed. with sufficient going into them. The Zoom classes still allowed preparation. It was only because of my me to connect with my classmates and teachers incredible teacher, Lou Leskosky, that I was in a way that made me feel like I was not alone. AP Lang and AP Euro were some of the able to do as well as I did.” most fun AP classes I got to take and I am really excited that I got the opportunity to experience them with such amazing teachers. Marie Antoinette once said, “Get that bread, get Louis’ head, then leave!” This quote has stuck with me ever since, it motivates me to chase after what I want in life, and that is just one of many things that being in AP taught me.”

WARNER ROBINS HIGH SCHOOL Anastacia Del Rio Eliot Day (11th Grade) (12th Grade) AP US Government & Politics AP Biology College plans: Undecided AP European History 10 years: I see myself in the College plans: Georgia Psychology field with Music as a Institute of Technology back up. 10 years: I plan on researching in biomolecular engineering with a focus on genetic modifications. I am not sure if I want to specialize in crop modifications to help combat food scarcity or study hereditary diseases. “Especially given the circumstances the world “My AP Biology teacher was Mrs. Candace is currently in, government really helped give Henderson and she showed me some of the a lot of insight into why and how things possibilities available to me in the biology happen the way they do, and why people make field. She was extremely invested in her class the decisions they do, which has helped me and always kept things new and engaging. It was better understand the climate America and the through AP biology that I learned about CRISPR- world as a whole currently resides in.” CAS9 gene editing, and it launched my interest in researching genetic modification techniques. Hannah Hunt (12th Grade) I am very thankful I had the opportunity to be in Mrs. Henderson’s class, she is very AP English Lang & Comp supportive and encouraging. AP Biology has been College plans: I plan to attend the best class I have taken in high school and the University of Tennessee has shaped my academic path.” initially and then transfer to New York University to complete my college education. Kalyn Flanders (12th Grade) 10 years: In ten years, I hope AP English Lang & Comp to have a degree in business College plans: I have applied with a minor in music business to Piedmont University, and a degree in music Mississippi State University, technology from a combination Louisiana State University, of the University of Tennessee and New York Kennesaw State and I am also University. It is important to me that I work wherever I planning to apply to Valdosta attend to save money for future endeavors and secure State and Campbellville a job immediately after college. I intend for this job to University. be a sound engineer for a recording studio in New York 10 years: In ten years I plan on City, where I hope to make my name in the industry having a masters in biological known. These goals will all work towards my end goal sciences and a doctorate in marine sciences. I want to of owning a successful recording studio in New York work in South Florida working in a rehabilitation center City later in my life. and specialize in manatees. I plan on having a family and a successful career. “The most important lesson I have learned in high school came from reading “The Ones Who “Coming into Warner Robins High School three Walk Away From Omelas” by Ursula LeGuin in AP years ago, I was scared as the newest transfer English Language and Comp junior year. This I would feel like the odd one out. I hadn’t had story taught me that there are those who do a good AP/education experience the past year nothing about the suffering of others in life and I was hoping for a challenge. Joining the and those who are willing to go against the AP program helped me thrive in those past majority for what is right. Reading this story couple years. My teachers especially have taught me that fighting for change is not pushed me to my best potential and made me always the popular choice, but sticking up for raise my standards for myself. Mr. Leskosky and your friends, family, and even strangers Mr. Daniel are both the most phenomenal facing injustices is more important than the teachers I’ve had and they have taught me so comfort of one’s privilege.” much in the course as well as about life.”

WARNER ROBINS HIGH SCHOOL Victoria Garay-Moreno Christopher Hyde (11th Grade) (11th Grade) AP US Government & Politics AP US Government & Politics College plans: University of College plans: I haven’t made Georgia many plans yet, but possibly 10 years: In ten years, I Georgia Tech. hopefully will have a few pets, 10 years: In ten years, and I’ll probably be starting my hopefully I’ll have figured out a career. profession that I enjoy by that time and I’ll have graduated and found employment. Maybe I’ll have a girlfriend or spouse. I have a lot of undeveloped interests so maybe my job “AP Government wasn’t just a class where I will stem from one of those, but as of right now, I have learned about politics and our systems of no solid direction to work towards. government, but where I finally learned my “Everyone loves Leskosky. If anyone said they potential as a student. I stopped settling for didn‘t like Leskosky I‘d be inclined to assume less, the lessons I learned were much greater they were lying. He always has a fun, maybe than government, and will stick with me for the mildly eccentric presence in the classroom, rest of my career as a student.” and is an incredible teacher. Without his guidance throughout the class and his Stephen Jones (12th Grade) ridiculous methods of memorization, a 5 on the exam would have been completely out of my AP English Lang & Comp reach. He saved my dying love of learning by College plans: Central helping me rediscover how interesting history Georgia Technical College and politics can be. I‘ll never forget 10 years: In ten years, Leskosky‘s captivating lectures, and he’ll I plan to be working in Aircraft always be my criterion of a good teacher.” Maintenance. Brennan Long (11th Grade) AP US Government & Politics College plans: Either University of Miami, Georgia Tech, Johns Hopkins, Purdue “AP Language is the single class in all my University, or one of the three years in school to really challenge me in how I US Military Academys think. Learning to think more critically and 10 years: In ten years, I plan challenge my fundamental ideas made all the on being in the career field of many essays worth it.” Biomedical Engineering. Right now, I am not quite sure what specifically I want to do in that field. But I also plan on have started or starting a family of my own and having kids. “My AP Government teacher Mr. Leskosky has been one of my favorite teachers ever. He basically taught me how to take notes and always wanted the best for us. Now I judge every teacher on how he taught and treated his students. Once I finally start working and then have to start teaching peers how to do stuff, I’ll remember how he taught me all those years ago.”

WARNER ROBINS HIGH SCHOOL Grace Masa (12th Grade) Zander Narum (12th Grade) AP US History AP Chemistry College plans: Georgia AP European History Institute of Technology AP US History 10 years: In ten years I will College plans: I plan to apply have liked to have graduated to Georgetown, Georgia from Georgia Tech with a Institute of Technology, and masters degree in engineering Boston University. and I would like to be working 10 years: I see myself, at a steady, well-paying job as working as a lawyer at a law a mechanical engineer. firm. “Having had Mr. Ekey as my AP United States “My AP teachers, Ms. Barfield, Mr. Ekey, and History teacher, I knew I’d be prepared for the Mr. Leskosky are the reason for my fives on exam. Even with the altered test format due to the AP exams. Their persistence and excellence in teaching, allowed me to bloom in their COVID-19, I felt totally confident in my subjects. They put their full effort into performance on the exam because I had a wonderful teacher to help prepare me to do my teaching and creating the best environments for learning. Without them, there is no way I best.” could be where I am today.” Shelby Pace (11th Grade) AP Psychology Joshua Sawyer (12th Grade) College plans: Undecided AP English Lang & Comp 10 years: In ten years, I see AP European History myself as a pet groomer, mother, AP US History and hopefully starting as a College plans: University of singer. Georgia 10 years: In ten years, I see myself in pursuit of licenses to practice orthopedic surgery. If all goes right by then I will be “As I look back upon my AP Psychology class I practicing medicine with a growing family and a stable realize it was well worth it. Even though I struggled, it helped me further myself and grow financial situation . in knowledge. Now I am taking on 3 AP classes “AP Language was a class on rhetoric first, and a college class and I cannot wait to get but successful college level writing was my into my college career.” biggest take away. Writing isn’t easy, especially formal writing, but after taking Farinaz Zahiri (12th Grade) the class with Mr. Daniel I felt confident in each and every essay. Writing for my AP English Lang & Comp application felt like second nature, largely AP European History thanks to the tips and tricks I learned from AP US History AP Language. This course is an absolute must College plans: I plan to go to for those who plan to pursue college after either Univerity of Georgia or high school.” Georgia Institute of Technology 10 years: In ten years, I see myself living in a big city, working, and most likely in graduate school. “Not all AP classes are going to go well. It’s the classes I truly enjoyed that I made 5’s in, not the ones I studied the hardest for.”

Houston County School District 2019-2020 Alumni AP5s Studio Art Drawing English Lit & Composition Lauren Booth HCHS Joseph Carter VHS Studio Art 2-D Ariana Collier PHS Sarah Bryant VHS Aaliyah Holder WRHS Lydia Johnson PHS Biology William Ray HCHS Natalie Van Slyke VHS Brandon Schmitz HCHS Calculus AB VHS Environmental Science HCHS Matthew Babbitt VHS Abrial Currie WRHS Joseph Carter HCHS Alexis Gonzalez HCHS Nicholas Dillon VHS Vennela Gosukonda HCHS Ethan Dorr VHS Carolyn Harper HCHS Colleen Gibbons HCHS Hogan Rigole HCHS Charles Herbert VHS Glenn Wright Colten Holley VHS Walker Holley VHS French Lang & Culture Shelby Lowe VHS Braeden Mahnke VHS McKenzie Schmidt WRHS Zane Meyers PHS Gabriel Odom VHS Macroeconomics VHS Nathan Richardson VHS Matthew Babbitt VHS Isha Shah HCHS Nia Canty-Smith VHS Kyle Tran VHS Joseph Carter VHS Natalie Van Slyke PHS Victoria Martin PHS Trevor Vandersall VHS Dorothy Paschal VHS Colton Walker NHS Isha Shah VHS Abigail Wallace VHS Dan Tran PHS Nyshad Williams Trevor Vandersall VHS Colton Walker PHS Calculus BC Anna Walters VHS Alyssa Bonifacio Noah Woodyard Abrial Currie Mackenzie Eader HCHS Physics 1 VHS David Kwak HCHS Akili Joseph Shaojie Lin HCHS Gisselle Rubalcava HCHS Psychology VHS Brandon Schmitz HCHS Hannah Barbour VHS Jack Truxal HCHS Joshua Houck VHS Glenn Wright HCHS Rachel Keown HCHS HCHS David Kwak HCHS HCHS Kristy Nguyen PHS Sydney Oglesby HCHS Chemistry VHS Gisselle Rubalcava HCHS Elizabeth Edelblute David Schmitz VHS Kaitlyn Shepherd VHS Computer Science A HCHS Adrianna Silva Jack Truxal Computer Sci Principles Spanish Lang & Culture Colten Holley Walker Holley VHS Cristabelle Espada HCHS Colton Walker VHS VHS Lucia Sosa HCHS English Lang & Composition US Gov’t & Politics HCHS Mackenzie Eader VHS Rebecca Emberton WRHS Timothy Holtz HCHS Nathan Leborious VHS Justin Winborne VHS Noah Woodyard