Can you describe a memorable moment from your time as a student at BOHS?
Taking AP Euro with Mr. Rotblum the first year it was offered at BOHS was definitely a highlight. I got so close with the rest of my class and we rotated going to each other’s houses to study together for each unit test and the AP Exam.
How do you think the school culture or community has changed since you were a student?
A lot of what I remember about being at [BOHS] has remained the same: Tight-knit community, strong friendships, exciting programs and teams to be a part of, inspiring teachers. I think the biggest change I see is that graduating classes are smaller; my class of ’09 was around 500 people, for example. But at its core, Brea remains a one high school town, allowing the traditions and school spirit to thrive.
Do you think students today face different challenges than you did when you were in school? If so, in what way?
Yes, I think the challenges that come with social media (less privacy, more [fear of missing out], less face-to-face interactions with friends, more time taken over by screens) are extremely different from the kinds of challenges I faced when I was navigating high school and no one had an Instagram account. Ultimately, I believe that trying to fit in and finding a sense of belonging are fundamental challenges everyone goes through in high school, but the added digital component brings its own difficulties.
If you could go back and relive one day as a student at BOHS, which day would it be and why?
I think I would go back and relive the day that my AP Language teacher, Ms. Luce, took my class into the PAC to sit on the stage in a circle by the light of a jack o’lantern and tell ghost stories to each other for Halloween. It was special and spooky and so much fun to scare each other and laugh about it together. Those are the kind of campus memories that stick with me.
Any advice you would like to give for the students at BOHS?
Ask for help early and often, offer assistance to others, and find ways to make what you’re learning interesting to you.
What did Homecoming mean to you when you were a student here?
I remember Homecoming being a big deal, but most people didn't go unless you had a date. Also back then, Homecoming was after the Sadie Hawkins dance on campus so it wasn't the first dance of the year like it is now. I think Homecoming has evolved today into more of a "friends group" dance, which is cool.
Do you have any memorable Homecoming stories as a student?
My most memorable Homecoming experience was my senior year. I went with a huge group of my friends and our dates and we all took pictures and went out to dinner in Long Beach before the dance at the Queen Mary. We were so excited because the Queen Mary was supposed to be haunted and I think that added an extra spooky layer to our fun.
