As graduation approaches, senior Arya Patel reflects on her high school journey and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

At Hidden Valley High School, Patel said her closest friends, Anuva, Kate and Vada, played a significant role in her personal growth over the past four years. She said Anuva encouraged her to push herself academically and try new experiences, while Kate brought joy and laughter to her day-to-day life.

Looking back, Patel said she wishes she had been braver as a freshman by joining more clubs and activities, even when her friends were not involved.

“That’s how you figure out what you want to do,” Patel said.

She said those friendships ultimately taught her the importance of stepping outside her comfort zone and keeping an open mind, lessons she plans to carry into her future.

Patel said she is excited for what comes next, including upcoming travel plans. She hopes to visit Chicago this summer and travel to India later in the year.

Beyond travel, Patel is also reconnecting with a long-standing interest in art. After stepping away from creative hobbies in recent years, she is re-engaging with that passion through linocut printing, a hands-on art form she is eager to explore further.

Reading also remains an important part of her life. Patel said her favorite book, Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, explores themes of grief and cultural identity that resonate with her personally. She is also a fan of the film Pitch Perfect, which she enjoys for its humor and rewatchability.

As Patel prepares for the next chapter of her life, she said her curiosity, creativity and adventurous spirit will guide her forward.