Name: Zia 

Graduation Year: 2026

Middle School: Edna Brewer

Hometown: Oakland

 

Why did you choose College Prep? I was really drawn to the active community at College Prep: everyone at this school wants to be here. They’re ready to engage with their peers, whether in class, doing homework, working in study groups, playing on sports teams, or participating in extracurriculars. It was an absolute must for me to be in an inclusive environment that fostered both hard work and friendship.

 

What is the biggest difference between middle school and high school? At my middle school, I felt like the students didn't have enough responsibility. When I came to College Prep, I instantly realized that this is a student-led community. We can lead and start our own clubs, participate in Student Council, apply for leadership positions in extracurriculars, and have honest conversations with faculty members about how to improve the school. On the other hand, the teachers also have much higher expectations and challenge us with a heavier workload, but their standards are always realistic.

 

What advice would you give to 8th graders applying to high school? Don't stress out about your future! It’s hard to pick a high school, and sometimes it’s even harder to feel confident in your decision. Instead of worrying about what’s going to be happening in your life a year -- or even 4 years -- from now, think about who you are right now. Look for a school that has programs that align with your hobbies, or people you could see yourself being friends with, or a school that excites you academically, or a school that has really good vibes. My admissions process was so much easier after I stopped letting anxiety control it and I started looking for a place where I just felt like I fit in.

 

What is your favorite place on campus? My favorite place on campus is behind the stage in the auditorium. I'm in the drama program, and I love hanging out back there with my friends during tech rehearsals and performances. It's really cool because you can see most of the set (which is always gorgeous!) from a different perspective, and the cast and crew write supportive messages and inside jokes for each other all over the tables and backdrops. There are also snacks sometimes! It feels like a secret clubhouse at school.

 

What are you involved in on campus? I am a member of several clubs, including FemU, Granny Club, Poetry Club, Model UN, Baking Club, Art Club, Book Club, Latin Club, and Green Team. I co-founded and co-lead the Students with Disabilities Affinity Club, and have attended Equity Roundtables due to my position as an Affinity and Identity-based club leader. I’m also in the drama program. I have taken acting classes at College Prep and I was a cast member in the fall 2022 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Last year, I joined the debate team and Science Olympiad, and I’ve been competing in tournaments for both of these clubs. Finally, I’m a member of the varsity swim team. I would say that extracurriculars have helped me most by introducing me to new people, particularly in other grades, and helping me build a new community. Extracurriculars have helped me improve my time management skills, and have given me a space to have fun and explore my interests.

 

What has been your favorite class so far? I adored all of my classes last year, but if I had to pick one, it would definitely be physics. I enjoyed the perfect balance between hands-on activities, labs, lecture-based learning, and small group discussions. Also, my entire physics class had all these little inside jokes that made coming to school really fun.

 

What is your favorite thing about College Prep? One of my favorite things about College Prep is all the random discussions you end up having with your peers! I was worried about not making friends at first, but even during the first week of ninth grade, most people were extremely outgoing and wanted to talk to new students. Everyone has something interesting to say, a joke to tell, a hilarious hot take, or a niche hobby to discuss. I've enjoyed spontaneous conversations ranging from ice climbing in Alaska, to why a giraffe is a more ridiculous concept than a unicorn, to the best way to make lemon bars. The teachers are also super friendly, and are always ready to discuss interesting facts!

 

1. I'm ambidextrous!

2. I can play 4 instruments and am learning a 5th.

3. I make my own jewelry.