Top Performing Students; In and Out of the Classroom

By: Zitlaly Ceballos

On Friday, April 21st, 2023, over 50 HHS students, from all classes, were recognized for their top academic performance. In fact, the rally itself, “Academic Rally,” emphasizes the importance of education for our San Benito County Community, the state of California, and beyond. To fit the entire student body, two rallies were thoroughly organized by Rally Club, ASB, officers, and much more. Yet, the true stars of the show were our Top Ten. Specifically, the Senior Class of 2023, and their students. These individuals are more than just a class ranking. Having had the privilege to share a space with them, both at San Benito and prior, I am certain when I say: They are the epitome of “well-rounded.” Each with their own character, but one common love for their studies. Having finished rally day, I was granted the opportunity for a brief questionnaire. A small glimpse into their work habits, balance, extra-curriculars, and person. 

The Interviews:

-> Donnobhain (Donno) Haertel: SGS Graduate, one of two men in top ten, athlete, physics champ

Zitlaly: How do you manage academics and athletics?  What does top ten mean to you/what has it taught you?

Donno: I think a major way I’m able to balance academics and athletics is from a high level of support from teachers, and from the implementation of AFTs. I am an extremely competitive person and enjoy challenging myself against others in any aspect I get the chance at, and for me, the top ten is a materialization of the academic side of my competitiveness.

-> Magdalena (Maggie) Ortiz: Cal-Poly bound graduate, strong physics leader, athlete, humble

Zitlaly: How do you balance your coursework with athletics?

Maggie: I had to use my time wisely, stay organized, so as to not spend all my time on once a certain target, as could be homework, practice, or work.

-> Alejandra Gonzalez:  Rice University: future civil engineer, hard-working, concentrated, sincere

Zitlaly: What has been the biggest challenge against remaining firm to your academics? 

Alejandra: I’d say the biggest challenge has been to remain motivated in doing my work because there have been many instances in which I'd rather do anything besides homework. You just gotta push through. :)

-> Kayla Salazar: Bruin Bound Future Lawyer, President of too many clubs, inspired/inspiring

Zitlaly: What does top ten mean to you/what has it taught you?

Kayla: For me, top ten means/has taught me to work extremely hard towards my goals. It has taught me that achieving goals takes time and a lot of prioritizing. To get good grades, it meant spending endless hours studying well in advance before the test. It meant always doing extra credit. It meant planning my days around how best to achieve my goals.  

-> Isabela (ISA-BOSS) Fernandez:  Harvey Mudd Woman-in-Stem, conserved, witty, friendly

Zitlaly: How have you/do you manage your workload with five APs for two consecutive years?

Isabela: Managing five APs can be a challenge. It’s important to find time to dedicate to each class, yet find time to rest as well. Time management is key when doing so. It's important not to procrastinate on assignments and find a schedule that works for you. 

-> Ava Thatcher: Notre Dame (go Irish!), Field Hockey, Track and Field, Architecture major (since & before freshman year), Stem and the Arts, humble

Zitlaly: How do you stay motivated throughout the year?

Ava: I would say that to stay motivated, I really just look towards my goals and go step by step with what I need to do. If my goal is to pass an AP test, then I look at each assignment as preparation for that.  

The Class of 2023 is honored to have such strong leaders amongst the top ten. They are representative of the entirety that goes on at HHS, from the faculty to maintenance, we are all Baler Strong. We are excited to see where these and all our graduates will go next. Prior to graduation, numerous events, including Senior Awards Night, were scheduled for Wednesday, May 17th, 2023. Events dedicated to the recognition of these and many other individuals, and their amazing families. For these, and much more: It's always a great day to be a Baler!