- School District U-46
- Class of 2022
- Top 2 Percent
Ronit Nagarapu
What are your post-high school plans?
I currently plan to attend either UIUC or UC-Berkeley.
What is the most important thing you learned in high school?
The most important lesson I learned throughout high school was how to prioritize and not spread myself too thin. Going to high school was a huge shift in perspective. I learned the hard way that it is impossible and unhealthy to join every club, or go to every event, or study 3 hours for every single class and get 100% on every test all at the same time. My biggest piece of advice to younger students is to explore and find one or two activities that you are really passionate about and pursue them on a deep and personal level.
What is your favorite high school memory?
My favorite memory in high school would have to be the conversations I had with my friends during lunch periods. Those 50 minutes each day were a great way for me to relax and reset my brain, all while having fun and laughing about the craziest things. Looking back, I wish I valued my free time with friends more because it is definitely something I'll miss when I go to college.
What was your favorite class or learning experience?
My favorite learning experience was definitely my capstone project in my PLTW Engineering Design and Development class. With a group of students, we had to find a problem we saw in the real world and develop a viable product to solve it. My group was able to make a tennis training product that could help players practice alone during the pandemic. It was a fun way to combine my passions outside of school to academic work.
Share your best advice for incoming freshmen:
The people you meet in high school and the friend groups you develop are more important than anything for success. Branch out and meet new people, and make sure you surround yourself with friends that motivate you to be better everyday.
What or who do you acknowledge for your academic success, and ranking in the top 2 percent of your senior class?
First, I have to thank my family for always supporting me and providing me with the guidance and advice I needed to succeed. My older brother was especially helpful as a role model for the type of student and person I strive to be everyday. My teachers were also super impactful on my academic journey, and their endless compassion and encouragement were prime factors in my success. Most importantly, I have to thank my wonderful friends for making school a truly fun place to be.
What life lessons or observations have you gained about yourself, and the world, during the 2021-22 school year?
Never dwell on the past, and keep your focus on what you want to do next. Make it your goal to be better than you were yesterday. Moreover, never compare yourself to anyone but yourself. Carry yourself with confidence and be proud of your accomplishments, but learn that humility and compassion are the greatest qualities any student can have.