Five seniors delivered their speeches within the past week in the Berry Performing Arts Center. Congratulations to Christian Bacalhau ’23 (pictured), Kapriana Payami ’23, Chiupong Huang ’23, Aayushi Singh ’23 and Andrew Chan ’23, who addressed a variety of themes to deliver important messages.
Christian discussed his evolution from a quiet freshman follower who didn’t believe in himself to a more confident, outgoing senior who’s willing to step out of his comfort zone. He encouraged his peers not to be afraid to take chances and make mistakes.
Kapriana shared the many different phases she’s experienced as a 15-year lifer at LA, including the color pink, glasses, minions, ponytail with a bow, coffee drinker and passenger princess. She thanked her best friend Annie, parents and siblings and left the audience with the message to “enjoy every moment and make as many memories as you can.”
Chiupong used Don Gorske’s 50-year streak of eating at least one Big Mac every day to deliver a message about the freedom to do what you love instead of spending time doing things you’d rather not do. Chiupong has concluded that “there is value in finding something that you have an innate desire to do.”
Aayushi shared how babysitting her younger brother has enriched her life. These moments cooking, singing, creating crafts and helping with homework have taught her patience and many other lessons she’ll take with her forever.
Andrew spoke about his love for athletics and how joining teams and other clubs has benefitted him in recent years. Sports like basketball, cross country and track have produced memorable experiences and he urged his peers to find something that interests them to make the most of their high school years.