By PAUL ELIAS

SAN FRANCISCO — A UPS employee opened fire at a San Francisco package delivery facility on Wednesday, injuring four and prompting a massive police response in a neighborhood near downtown, officials said.

UPS spokesman Steve Gaut told The Associated Press that an employee fired inside the facility before the drivers were sent out to do their normal daily deliveries. Gaut said four people were injured and that he believed the shooter “turned the gun on himself.”

Gaut and hospital officials did not have immediate information about anyone’s condition.

Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital received the victims, spokesman Brent Andrew said, but he did not know exactly how many people.

Auto shop owner Robert Kim said he heard about five to eight rapid gunshots. The next thing he knew, he said, “a mob of UPS drivers” was running down the street screaming “shooter, shooter.”

Police confirmed the shooting at the facility in the Potrero Hill neighborhood, about 2½ miles from downtown SanFrancisco but didn’t release further information.

Uniformed UPS employees were later led out in a line by officers next to a highway. They walked away calmly with emergency vehicles nearby and gathered nearby outside a restaurant.

The shooting led to a massive police response and a shelter-in-place warning for the surrounding area.

It came the same day a gunman opened fire on Republican lawmakers at a congressional baseball practice, wounding U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana and several others.

The teenager splurted blood. His skin went gray. His ear lobes turned blue.

He had collapsed on the floor of his garage while his parents were out walking the dog. The right side of his heart had broken down, causing arrhythmia.

On Nov. 11, 2016, just before noon, a sudden death event was happening in Huntington Beach.

But Tim Deits didn’t die.

What happened to keep Deits alive that day involves a string of coincidences inside a five-minute window that meant life or death. Kids didn’t show up at his house. An elderly woman fainted. His parents brought the family’s golden retriever, Sandy, home at just the right time.

Even the neighbor across the street figures into this amazing story. Coincidentally.

But most importantly, the local hospital staff had pushed and trained and waited for the only medical device in the world — a tiny turbine tube created in Germany by a little-known inventor — that could save a person with a disease that specifically attacks the right side of the heart.

Five years after a surgeon at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach had requested the right-side Impella, a heart pump for a particular type of arrhythmia, the device finally arrived — one month before Tim Deits collapsed. The hospital staff had completed their training with the device three weeks before they really needed it.

It was the first time the newly approved instrument would be used on a child in the United States.

“This kid has something going for him,” said Anthony Caffarelli, a cardiac surgeon at Hoag.

*****

The kid had never shown symptoms of a heart problem, but that’s to be expected with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy. ARVC can be a quick killer, lying dormant until a sudden implosion of the heart.

Last November, Deits, 16, was a hockey-loving sophomore at Edison High with his eye on something bigger. He saw himself as a soldier in training. He wanted to serve his country. Tim’s plan was to turn 18 and join the Army. He lifted weights regularly in his garage.

“You have to be strong,” Deits said.

On Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day — Deits’ parents went for a walk along the beach with Sandy. They thought they would come home to a garage full of weightlifting teenagers, which was a normal day in the Deits house.

When they came home, the garage was quiet. To his mother, Michelle, no teenagers in the house was the first sign that something was wrong.

Michelle Deits called out, “Timmy?” He didn’t answer.

She hurried into the garage and found her son on the floor. He wasn’t moving. She screamed for her husband, Ted.

Ted called 911.

Ted got on the floor to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which Tim and his sister Kellie, both lifeguards for many years, had taught their father.

With each push of his son’s chest, blood poured out of Tim’s mouth.

“I thought he was dead,” Ted Deits said.

As the day went on, he wouldn’t be alone in that opinion.

*****

Earlier that morning, the paramedics on Huntington Beach Fire Engine 45 had attended a Veteran’s Day ceremony. In the middle of that event, an elderly woman passed out and needed to be taken to the hospital.

Engine 45 took the call and transported her. But instead of going back to the ceremony, they waited on the fringe of the crowd.

Because they weren’t slowed by traffic from the ceremony, they were able to get to Tim Deits in less than two minutes. Doctors would later say that if his parents wouldn’t have come home, and the paramedics wouldn’t have arrived within the same five-minute window, Tim would be dead.

Paramedic Shawna Parkinson rushed into the garage.

“We saw a lot of blood,” Parkinson said. “We thought someone had dropped a weight on his face.”

Paramedics defibrillated Tim’s heart twice in the garage and once in the ambulance. Finally, they could detect a faint pulse.

*****

Critical care doctor Bahram Alavynejad saw Tim arrive in the emergency room.

“Why would an adolescent develop cardiac arrest?” Alavynejad asked himself.

Tim had a dilated right side of his heart. There was no blood clot. No hypertension of the lungs. No heart attack. The patient had not been using drugs.

As they were brainstorming what to do, Tim’s heart stopped again. “Code Blue” is the term they use in the hospital. “Circling the drain,” is what his father said, and he wasn’t trying to be funny.

A minister and chaplain met with the Deits family.

“They’re preparing me for Timmy to die,” said Michelle Deits.

Dr. Ray Ghandi told them Tim had a 10 percent chance of survival … if he got a heart transplant.

Michelle went into Tim’s room. “You have to make it through this,” she said to her unresponsive son. “I can’t make it without you.”

It wasn’t until the evening that Ghandi got another idea. Fresh from his training, he suggested the right-side Impella pump.

“Do we have that?” Alavynejad asked.

They did.

In 2012, cardiac surgeon Caffarelli had approached representatives from Abiomed, the Impella company, about using the pump at Hoag. Abiomed had been successful with its well-known left-side heart pump, but Caffarelli was asking about their right-side pump.

More patients have trouble with the left side of their heart, so the right side device wasn’t always seen as a necessity.

In 2012, when Caffarelli first asked about the right-side pump, which pushes blood from the lungs to the heart, it hadn’t yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Hoag would have to wait.

German inventor Thorsten Siess began developing the Impella in 1991. His goal was to move blood with an electric motor, while the heart was in distress. His device could keep a patient alive until surgeons could fix the heart. It took him more than a decade to perfect a tiny motor that would pump enough blood through a tube to keep a heart pumping.

After all those years, the timing seemed to line up perfectly to save Tim Deits’ life.

In 2016, the FDA approved the right-side pump in May. Hoag approved the right-side pump in September. Cafarelli and Dr. Mahmoud Eslami were trained on the right-side pump in October.

Hoag nurses and staff were trained Oct. 17-18.

Tim collapsed at the moment everyone was ready to save him.

*****

The doctors who saved Tim improvised with their use of two Impellas. Tim’s heart was so bad, they used the left-side and right-side Impella pumps at the same time, something that had never been done before.

They put Tim in a coma for four days before they felt confident enough to remove the Impellas and insert a defibrillator that would re-start his heart if it ever stopped again.

Everyone who saw Tim in a coma worried that he would have brain damage when he awoke.

But, four days later, he woke up and eased everyone’s fears immediately.

He asked for his phone.

“I checked Snapchat,” he said with a laugh. Later, he stretched a surgical glove across his head, proving his sense of humor was intact.

“We had the best laugh of our lives,” Ted Deits said.

He was in the hospital for two weeks and went home on Thanksgiving Day.

The Deits family smiles now when they think about all the coincidences that saved Tim’s life. He’s had a couple of scares since then, but everything has turned out OK.

He plans to go back to school at Edison in September.

And the Deits family made a new friend.

While Tim was in the hospital, they met Ben Esque, who works for Abiomed. Esque’s job is to support the doctors who use the Impella.

Coincidentally, Ben Esque lives in Huntington Beach.

Coincidentally, he lives across the street from the Deits family.

Men’s salon Hammer & Nails is making its way to Orange County. The company is looking to open 10 locations in Orange County and the South Bay in the next five years.

The 10 units will be headed by franchisee Mike Gioseffi, who already owns two European Wax Centers in the area.

Gioseffi said Hammer & Nails offers men the opportunity to get manicures, pedicures and other services at a salon aimed at them and not women.

“It’s a man cave environment. It’s very rustic, very expensive leather chairs, individual TVs for the guests and there is one complimentary drink when you get the service,” Gioseffi said.

The salon also offers barber services.

Hammer & Nails opened its first location in Hollywood in 2013. It will open its first franchised location in Miami on June 16, followed by two locations in Texas.

In Orange County, Gioseffi is looking at Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Irvine, Brea, Laguna Niguel and Costa Mesa.

For non-members, hand and foot grooming services start at $30 and can go up to more than $100.

Hammer & Nails offers a membership service where clients pay a fee and receive up to three services every month and discounts on product purchases.

The Saddleback Valley Christian boys swimming and diving team today was named a CIF State Academics Team Champion for the 2016-17 school year.

The team had a cumulative grade-point average of 3.77, the highest figure among all swimming and diving teams in CIF State athletics.

Saddleback Valley Christian will receive a banner, which can be displayed in the school’s gymnasium or elsewhere on campus, recognizing the achievement.

Here’s how to place a vacation hold on your newspaper subscription to suspend delivery for a period of time.

There are 3 easy ways to request a vacation hold.

Online: ocregister.com/customerservice

Email:  customerservice@ocregister.com

Phone: 714-796-7777

Customer Service Hours:

Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday & Holidays 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Sunday 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Vacation Hold/Stop Options

When you contact us about your vacation hold, you will have three options for what will happen to your papers:

Vacation Pack – We will hold your papers and deliver them upon your return – up to 30 days.

Vacation Donation – Donate your vacation papers to local schools.

Vacation Stop – Delivery will stop while on vacation, no credit or extension is applied to the account.

On one end of the Disneyland Resort, the Summer of Heroes have landed, and on the other end buildings have gotten larger in “Star Wars” land.

Long lines greet visitors to Disney California Adventure’s new attraction “Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout!” Morning visitors snatch up nearly all the Fastpasses early, with the standby line routinely having waits up to two hours.

Nearby, Groot, the tree-like character from the movie “Guardians of the Galaxy” visits as part of a photo opportunity, while at other times the characters of Star Lord, Peter Quill, and Gamora from the same movie hold a “dance-off.” Both occur in front of the attraction.

Down the street in Hollywood land, other Marvel characters such as Captain America, Spiderman and Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff), make appearances with Romanoff helping out in “The Avengers Training Initiative.” That show is similar to the Jedi Training Academy at Disneyland, but with a “Marvel” approach to participation by kids.

At Disneyland, the Big Thunder Trail opened; providing an alternate route between Fantasyland and Frontierland.

In Frontierland, the Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia were sailing the Rivers of America again, undergoing testing as the park edges closer to opening the attractions to the public.

The return of the ships to the waterway means that sometime this summer will also see the return of the river show “Fantasmic!”

Disneyland also started work on a project meant to ease congestion in Adventureland. The work entails moving the dining area for the Bengal Barbecue into space occupied by two merchandise shops. Stroller parking, currently in the middle of the land’s walkway, will also be moved into the area occupied by a third shop – Tropical Imports. Work on the project is to be complete before the Fourth of July.

In Downtown Disney, steel girders were put in place for the building that will house the Splitsville Luxury Lanes, and several areas of the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa were undergoing refurbishment.

A new vehicle is patrolling Brea, but it looks nothing like others in the fleet.

Assigned to patrol The Tracks at Brea trail, the Polaris Gem Global Electric Motorcar has a top speed of 25 mph and a battery life of 98 miles on a full charge.

“It is used primarily by our downtown liaison officer to patrol the downtown entertainment district as well as the park trails,” Brea Police Department Lt. Darrin Devereux said.  “Given the length of the Brea Tracks Trails, this is a much quicker and easier way to patrol them quickly, versus on foot or on a bicycle.”

Introduced at the recent Centennial Parade, the all-electric vehicle has been in use for about three weeks. It cost around $21,000; the city used money received from the Air Quality Management District.

“We think it is important to monitor all of our amenities in Brea so that they can be used by everyone in the manner intended,” Devereux said. “We will patrol (the trail) as we do all of our other parks, so they don’t become a hangout for those wishing to cause problems.

“Most of our parks are easily accessible and visible to an officer driving a patrol car,” he said. “The linear nature of these parks make the small electric vehicle perfect for routine patrols.”

About the new ride

Polaris Gem Global Electric Motorcar

Size: 69-inch wheelbase, 103 inches long, maximum capacity is 800 pounds

Time to charge: 6 to 8 hours

How many miles on a full charge: 98

Top speed: 25 mph

Seats: 2

Off-road capabilities: Yes

Not long after Mark Cianfrani died unexpectedly at age 65, his daughter Rachael visited family friend Chuck Strand in New York. Strand sent her home to Tustin with what would become a transformative souvenir.

For four decades, a vinyl record hibernating in the attic quietly preserved a compilation of show tunes featuring Cianfrani as lead guitarist. They tell the story of “The Lieutenant,” a Tony-nominated production based on the 1968 My Lai Massacre of South Vietnamese civilians by American soldiers.

Rachael Cianfrani, 39, had never before heard the album.

“I first had to buy a record player,” she said with a laugh. “When I listened, I recognized one of the songs as something my dad had whistled to me as a little girl.”

That LP would ignite a passion and purpose in Cianfrani. The attorney and mother of three young children is now shopping “The Lieutenant” around, trying to attract backing for its revival.

Last month, she orchestrated a presentation at the Tustin Ranch Golf Club with the mission of drumming up potential investors. Actors with the Chance Theater in Anaheim belted out a selection of witty and stirring songs that ponder whether militarism as a whole was more to blame for the crime than the sole officer found guilty.

“Performing on Broadway was the highlight of my dad’s life,” Cianfrani said. “I want to do this for him.”

Critical acclaim

When the play debuted in 1975, New York Times critic Clive Barnes applauded a “vitality not often found in musicals these days.”

“It covers a lot of territory, including‐old‐fashioned vaudeville and even a touch of a comic barbershop quartet sung by a trio,” Barnes wrote. “This rock opera is unusual entertainment, sharp in its aspiration, modest in its resources and silkily assertive in its achievement.”

But despite such rave reviews, “The Lieutenant” – strapped for funding – closed after only nine days at the Lyceum Theater on Broadway.

The musical’s creators still bask in its afterglow.

“Nothing I have done before or since has equaled that experience in satisfaction,” said Florida resident Gene Curty, 79, who co-wrote the play with Strand and Nitra Scharfman.

Strand, 69, said he will never forget Mark Cianfrani’s audition for “The Lieutenant.”

“He was phenomenal. We hired him on the spot,” he said. “It was a guitar-heavy production, so his role was critical.”

Strand and Curty came to Tustin to witness the resurrection of their brainchild from the dust bin of obscure artistic gems.

“It has given me a lift like you wouldn’t believe,” Curty said.

Father-daughter bond

That reawakening is owed to an enduring father-daughter bond.

Cianfrani was born a few years after her dad’s moment in the limelight. Her parents, who had relocated from the East Coast to Garden Grove, divorced when she was 2, but she remained close to both.

Mark Cianfrani continued pursuing music — accompanying the likes of Ella Fitzgerald. Later, he worked as a corrections officer with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Mother Karen Cianfrani practices law in Santa Ana.

As a traveling musician, the elder Cianfrani often took little Rachael along to jazz festivals and concerts.

“He taught me the guitar and the saxophone, but I was terrible at both,” she said. “Once he figured out my passion was reading, he would buy me all kinds of books to read together.”

Her father died of a stroke while undergoing surgery for internal bleeding in 2015, a year after Cianfrani and her husband Mike Brodie welcomed their third son.

“Dad was a doting grandfather,” she recalled. “My children adored him.”

Within weeks of acquainting herself with the score of “The Lieutenant,” Cianfrani hired an entertainment attorney to help make her newfound dream a reality. With input from the play’s original writers and others, she wants to revise and update the script — and then open the show in Orange County before taking it back to Manhattan.

“I’m confident we’ll get it on Broadway,” she said. “Look at ‘Hamilton.’ Who would have thought that historical musical would be so popular?”

First, she needs to raise several million dollars — a daunting task on its own, Cianfrani admitted.

“We will host sneak previews in various venues to gain interest,” she said. “Investors will have a chance to own a piece of the play’s success.”

Four Tony Award nominations

Her optimism is not without foundation, given the short-lived production’s slew of Tony nominations: Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score and Best Actor in a Musical.

Eddie Mekka, later Carmine on the sitcom “Laverne & Shirley,” starred as The Lieutenant — representing unnamed platoon leader William Calley Jr., who was convicted of murder.

The writers did double duty. Curty portrayed a drill sergeant in one scene and the judge in another. Musical director Strand played the piano.

“We had no money for advertising, so the show did not generate enough box office,” Strand said.

Two days after producers called it quits, Tony nominations were announced — yet “The Lieutenant” already was pretty much out of the running.

“Tony voters couldn’t even see it,” Strand pointed out.

Still, the writers relished attending the heady affair — where they watched another musical, “The Wiz,” rake in seven awards.

Afterward, everyone went their separate ways — eventually leaving the theater behind. Scharfman became a court reporter; Strand transferred his engineering skills to the manufacturing industry; Curty went into the insurance business.

Their entertaining yet poignant examination of the My Lai tragedy deserves a present-day audience, Cianfrani believes. Next March, she noted, marks the 50th anniversary of the infamous mass killing.

Mark Cianfrani himself served in Vietnam. He forever mourned the death of his best friend there, his daughter said.

“Younger generations don’t have any attachment to what our country went through,” Cianfrani said. “I feel that the time is right for this theatrical take on a painful piece of history. It is both educational and healing.”

We asked graduating high school seniors to share with us their post-graduation plans for the fall.

We heard from 172 vocal music students. Some plan to go to work and some are taking a gap year, but most are off to college, to study everything from vocal performance to business to neuroscience.

We’ve listed them by the school they will attend, including their major and minor fields of study, statements about how the arts have influenced their plans, and their reason for choosing the institute they’ll be headed to.

$ = scholarship received

AZUSA PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

Aubrey King, Beckman High School

Major: commercial music

Why this school? The commercial music program.

How have the arts influenced you? All my life I have planned for my path to be vocal music-related. I haven’t thought of anything else I would love to do more. High school choirs and ensembles have helped me grow more in vocal music. When I found out that Azusa Pacific University provided a commercial music program consisting of songwriting and recording my own music, I could not be more happy.  I thank my choir teacher, Mrs. Stück, for helping me get where I am today.

What else? I plan on writing more music and getting my songs produced and up on things like YouTube, Soundcloud and iTunes. I also hope to be performing at places at my school and/or in coffee shops to get me started with my journey.

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY, Waco, TX

Renee Gentry, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: communicative sciences and disorders; Minor: music, $

Why this school? I committed to Baylor University because I fell in love with the campus. I was drawn to the faith-based community along with the many social activities and good speech pathology program.

How have the arts influenced you? I hope to become a speech pathologist. I want to utilize my gift of music to further my career. Music and singing are tools used in speech therapy. My grandfather had a stroke when I was younger. Through him, I saw the positive effects of speech therapy, which sparked my interest in this field.

What else? I plan to minor in music and join an a capella or choir group at Baylor.

Kristina Mercado, Tesoro High School

Major: business fellows, $

Why this school? It has a great business school and student engagement.

How have the arts influenced you? Music has always been a part of my life. I knew I wanted to do something business-wise but having music be such a big part of my life has led me to wanting to work on the business side of the music industry.

BELMONT UNIVERSITY, Nashville

Fiona Kweskin, Huntington Beach High School

Major: commercial music (vocal performance)

Why this school? It has a great music program.

Savannah Shaw, Foothill High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? Because I can pursue my major (nursing) while still being immersed in the music culture in Nashville!

Linsey Urrea, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: music business, undeclared, $

Why this school? The location and major.

BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC, Boston

Cami Wilson, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: music production and engineering

Why this school? It is one of the best music schools and offers great opportunities. Also, I got into their first year abroad program, so I will be in Valencia, Spain, my freshman year.

How have the arts influenced you? Ever since I got into music, I knew that I wanted to stay involved with it in the future. I love it and I can’t imagine my life without it. I don’t care what I do in the industry, as long as it is music related.

Michaela Xu, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Major: undecided

BIOLA UNIVERSITY

Hayden Mangum, Brea Olinda High School

Major: music; Minor: biblical and theological studies, $

Why this school? Their commercial music program is something very new in the music education department. Also, I look to strengthen my relationship with God.

How have the arts influenced you? They have shaped who I am as a person and have inspired me to share the art God has given to the earth!

What else? I plan on writing and producing music and through my music, I hope I can make a difference in the way people feel about themselves and about each other. The only future for our earth is if we stand as one people, and that feeling can only be achieved through music.

Allison Mayer, Brea Olinda High School

Major: christian ministries, $

Why this school? They have a great Bible program and offer everything I want to pursue in my career.

Amanda Pappalardo, Tesoro High School

Major: public relations (entertainment and events), $

Why this school? I love the people and what the school stands for. Biola is a truly amazing place where students are free to be themselves. There is such a sense of family there and I can’t wait to experience it.

How have the arts influenced you? Theater, music and film have taught me so much and I am truly passionate about all of these things. Pursuing the arts in high school opened my eyes to what I want to spend the rest of my life doing and I’ve grown as a performer and as a person from taking part in theater, music, and film. I want to continue to grow and learn about the arts in college and pursue the arts as a career.

What else? My goal is to one day work in the music business doing public relations for bands and artists. This is what I will study to do during my time at Biola.

BOSTON UNIVERSITY

Noah Hill, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: music; Minor: music (vocal performance), $

Why this school? It has a lot to offer academically.

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY, Provo

Ellie Glade, Laguna Beach High School

Major: biology, undeclared; Minor: theater studies, undeclared

Why this school? It’s a big school and has a variety of great programs, great sports teams and unity, friends, religious affiliation, is inexpensive, and my parents are alumni.

How have the arts influenced you? Musical theater has provided me with so much joy in my life and has largely shaped who I am today. Although I do not intend to major in voice or theater or pursue a career in this area, I want to minor in it and keep it a central part of my life.

Marin Hulse, San Clemente High School

Major: ancient Near Eastern studies (Hebrew Bible); Minor: Arabic, undeclared, $

Why this school? It has networks with the U.S. government’s language program and the U.S. foreign service program.

Annalyn Jones, Tesoro High School

Major: music performance (vocal)

Why this school? It aligns with my religious beliefs and academic goals.

How have the arts influenced you? I have learned a lot about being a part of a group and a lot about collaboration skills. I have also found joy in reaching out to people through music to help them emote and connect with each other.

Amber O’Barr, Brea Olinda High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? The religious affiliation and educational opportunities.

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY – HAWAII, Laie

Allie Hunter, Woodbridge High School

Major: elementary education, $

Why this school? The environment, standards and programs at this school fit my personality and goals that I have for myself.

How have the arts influenced you? I will always have music as a part of my life. Regardless of what I choose to pursue, I will always be seeking to be a better performer and musician. I plan to get involved with the college chorus at BYUH and will see if the jazz band there needs a singer. In the future, I know I could experiment around with different paths to pursue music. Starting a jazz band, auditioning for musicals, and singing for my church are all goals that I have for myself. I’m excited for the unknown!

CAL POLY SAN LUIS OBISPO

Jameson Jewell, Los Alamitos High School

Major: physics

Why this school? I believe that this school is unique in that it lives by its motto, “Learn by Doing.” This is the best way to learn and this experience will make me prepared for the future.

CAL STATE FULLERTON

Courtney Hays, Mater Dei High School

Major: theater arts

Why this school? This school’s BFA program for musical theater is highly competitive and prestigious. I hope to get in by my junior year.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts are my life. I participate in dance, theater and choir at my school. I have been in over 45 productions and I can’t describe in words how amazing it feels to perform. I am able to fully express myself. I am studying the arts because I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life. Musical theater brings me a type of joy and freedom that I have never found anywhere else. It has given me confidence, not just onstage but in my everyday life. Most importantly, though, it has given me an empathy, understanding, and compassion for everyone I meet.

Kyra Kuhn, San Clemente High School

Major: music (music education), undeclared; Minor: French, $

Why this school? It was my number one choice because they have an amazing vocal music program.

How have the arts influenced you? Without joining choir my sophomore year, I never would have found the love for vocal music I have now or known that this is what I want to help others find in their lives.

What else? I also hope to continue in theater somehow, whether at school or recreationally as I have found a love for that over the years as well.

Mindy Nguy, Pacifica High School

Major: theater arts and business administration

Why this school? It is close by my home and it’s a great school to go to.

What else? I want to be able to perform on stage and influence my audience, especially people younger than me, to do greater things.

Cynthia Rios, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: liberal studies

Why this school? It’s near home.

Cora Ruesga, Fullerton Union High School

Major: history

Why this school? Cheap price, good program.

CAL STATE LONG BEACH

Hayley Berbower, Los Alamitos High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I chose this school because it is the best option financially and if I want to transfer to another university, I easily can.

What else? I plan to join a sorority and find something that I am extremely passionate about.

Jacqui Blanchard, Los Alamitos High School

Major: teacher education

Why this school? It has a terrific teaching program and is close to home.

Johnathan Dinh, La Quinta High School

Major: biochemistry; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? It is the most practical and after much consideration, financially and academically, the best fit for me.

How have the arts influenced you? Music, particularly jazz and classical piano, have been a big influence on my life. I’ve learned how to appreciate the arts, how to dedicate time and passion into these arts, and how to manage my time by balancing music and grades. I hope to study piano just to do it on the side because I have such a big love for piano that I never want to drop it.

Katie Lewis, Los Alamitos High School

Major: education; Minor: mathematics

Why this school? I have always felt at home with this university and believe I will be well suited here.

What else? Next year, I plan to branch out in many different ways. One way would be to experience different environments such as studying abroad and living in different habitats. I believe this will broaden my life style and open my eyes to different educational purposes. Another way is that I am going to help out more in my community. I want to volunteer as a teacher’s aide to better educate myself on what I will be getting into in the future.

Nelson Miller, Los Alamitos High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It has a very good nursing program.

How have the arts influenced you? I love music and I hope to pursue it in some way later in life.

Hillary Ngo, La Quinta High School

Major: music education

Why this school? I want to study music at Long Beach!

How have the arts influenced you? Being in the music department at my school for four years made me fall in love with performing arts, and I want to continue doing what I love in the future. My instrumental and choir directors have made me a better musician and person. One day I want to be a choir director that positively impacts my students’ lives like they did.

Jack Nugent, Huntington Beach High School

Major: business administration; Minor: music

Why this school? The programs and location.

Kayla Orate, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: undecided, $

Why this school? It offered me tuition assistance while providing a good education.

Allison Parker, Los Alamitos High School

Major: psychology; Minor: English, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close to home, affordable and provides a great education.

Megan Person, Los Alamitos High School

Major: nursing, undeclared; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? It has a good nursing program.

Shelby Scott, Los Alamitos High School

Major: psychology

Why this school? It is close by and I’ll be able to work.

What else? At the moment, I don’t plan to study music or any other art in college, at least not in my first few years. However, this doesn’t mean that being in choir hasn’t given me something priceless. I think the skills I have developed in choir will help me in my psychological studies. That being said, I will never know what I may end up doing with the rest of my life. It’s exciting.

Jennifer Truong, Pacifica High School

Major: business administration (international business)

Why this school?  I believe it is the best choice for my major. Just every factor, like campus size and classes, fits my interests and preferences since I took a lot of time to research my choices.

How have the arts influenced you? My high school vocal ensemble group has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, which ultimately helped me break out of my shy cocoon and speak up. It has increased my social capital and also taught me how to work in a group, all crucial skills to becoming an international business major.

Bryn Williams, Los Alamitos High School

Major: communication studies

Why this school? The communications program and graduation rate.

CAL STATE NORTHRIDGE

Carla Laszlo, Huntington Beach High School

Major: deaf studies

Why this school? The sign language program.

CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

Breana Crane, Los Alamitos High School

Major: psychology; Minor: communication studies, $

Why this school? I am able to still be in choir and I got an amazing scholarship to be in the vocal music program. The school is super personable and has a great community.

What else? I wanted to go to a college where I would be able to still be in choir because being in choir has been such a huge light in my life. CBU has an amazing choir program and I ended up getting a scholarship too!

Julia Jedinak, Capistrano Valley High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? I love the school. It has a great campus and a love for the Lord.

What else? I might minor in theater arts.

Micah Spaulding, Capistrano Valley High School

Major: worship arts and ministry, $

Why this school? Because of the music department and school atmosphere.

What else? I plan to join the choir and the worship team at the University.

CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY

Elyse Johnson, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: music (vocal performance), $

Why this school? I gave generous scholarships and have a personalized education in beautiful location.

How have the arts influenced you? I plan to study vocal performance because of the wonderful artists who have come into my life through school and my community involvement with LA Opera.

Jacob McRee, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: music (vocal performance) and history, undeclared

Why this school? 1. Their vocal program. 2. The campus size. 3. Location. 4. Football. 5. Overall environment. ** Side Note: I will be coming in as a transfer student in the spring semester. I am planning to attend Saddleback College in the fall.

How have the arts influenced you? I am training in classical vocal music and have become very passionate about it over the last few years. I love to perform and hope to continue to do so at Chapman.

Sofia Sanchez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: political science, $

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Daniel Sanchez, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: music (vocal performance), $

Why this school? I committed to Chapman University because I believe that it gives me the best chance to be a professional performer in my field in the future. This is all due to their undergraduate program, as opposed to their competitor’s programs which are based off of mainly graduate students.

How have the arts influenced you? My art has brought me many wonderful things over the last four years of high school. I have been able to express myself and find myself while singing, so I know that that is what I want to do with my future. Why wouldn’t I do what makes me happiest? Singing and making art is what makes me happy, so that is what I want to do, and that is what I want to become my best at.

CLAREMONT McKENNA SCHOOL

Lilian Rangel, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: government, $

Why this school? I enjoy the small environment and opportunities provided by the consortium.

COASTLINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Anthony Perez, Costa Mesa High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because I like the business program.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve been in choir for sixyears and I enjoy singing and it can send a message out to the world. Photography is also something I’m passionate about.

What else? Possibly starting my own business in photography.

Helen Soria, Costa Mesa High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To finish my general ED then transfer to UCLA or Cal State Long Beach for nursing.

COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO

Shira Cortez, Beckman High School

Major: musical theater, $

Why this school? I committed to this school because of its fantastic theater program and it’s connections to professionals in the area.

How have the arts influenced you? I have wanted to be in the performing arts since I was little and my experiences in choir and theater at school and theater outside of school have solidified this decision.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY IRVINE

Susan Eschelbach, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: physics; Minor: graphic design, undeclared, $

Why this school? I received a vocal music scholarship.

Joseph Pena, Costa Mesa High School

Major: secondary education (history); Minor: coaching

Why this school? It fits my moral values and the campus is beautiful.

What else? I plan on running for the cross country and track and field team.

CYPRESS COLLEGE

Jenny Jungwon Kwon, Kennedy High School

Major: music, $

Why this school? For financial reasons, I could not afford the school I got into.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts, specifically the choir program at my school has revealed to me my true passions and has encouraged me to chase my dreams and really do what I love to do for the rest of my life.

What else? I got accepted into Berklee College of Music and Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins, but decided to attend community college and apply to transfer to schools in California like USC, CSULB, and MI in Hollywood because of financial reasons.

Jillian McDowell, Pacifica High School

Major: criminal justice

Why this school? I found a good opportunity in the TAG (transfer admission guarantees) program offered by Cypress, which would allow for a guaranteed transfer into my goal school, UCI, while saving money and getting my general education out of the way.

Brittney Metcalf, Los Alamitos High School

Major: music

Why this school? It’s close to home and it’s a beautiful campus.

How have the arts influenced you? Music is something that consumes me and I love to create and express myself. Vocal music, in particular, really opened my eyes to the brilliance that humans can achieve with practice and hours of dedication. I really believe that music has influenced my life for the better and I want to continue working on vocal music and writing it.

What else? I plan on transfering to a music school after I finish my time at Cypress (I have not decided where I want to transfer) and I’m very excited to see where I end up along the road.

DUKE UNIVERSITY, Durham, NC

Taylor Plett, Dana Hills High School

Major: English, $

Why this school? I got a full ride scholarship, it’s a great university, there are lots of opportunities, and it’s a beautiful campus.

How have the arts influenced you? I hope to remain involved in creative writing and screenwriting, possibly minoring in creative writing, and ultimately become an entertainment critic.

What else? Part of my scholarship includes a summer program at Oxford University next year, where I will be studying Shakespeare.

FULLERTON COLLEGE

Camille Angela Aguilar, Katella High School

Major: pre-nursing

Why this school? Because its really close and it has pre-nursing.

Jazmin Alvarenga, Santa Ana High School

Major: music, undeclared

Why this school? It’s closer to home and affordable.

How have the arts influenced you? Being in the vocal department has influenced my decision to become a music educator. This has also changed my opinion on becoming a public speaker.

What else? I plan to go to Fullerton college as a voice major. I have auditioned for a vocal scholarship, and I am waiting for the results.

Nathalie Bran, Katella High School

Major: sociology, undeclared

Why this school? Because it’s close to where I live.

What else? I plan on taking choir in college still.

Kiara Contreras, Katella High School

Major: pre-nursing; Minor: music

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Louie Gutierrez, Katella High School

Major: engineering; Minor: dance

Why this school? It’s close by.

Megan Kerrigan, Tesoro High School

Major: theater arts, $

Michelle Lockington, Foothill High School

Major: music; Minor: business administration, undeclared

Why this school? I committed to this school because my arts teacher recommended this school to me since I plan to major in music. From what I’ve known and heard, Fullerton has a great music department.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have, in my opinion, not only informed me of what I plan to study but have impacted me enough to want to continue on with my art. I have had the blessing to have music be a part of my life starting at a very young age. Studying the arts throughout my high school career has made me realize how music is very special to me and I long to still be immersed in music study and share it with others in my future to come.

GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, Washington, DC

Nathan Vasquez, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: business (international business) and political science; Minor: music, $

Why this school? I was named a Presidential Scholar of the Arts by the university, which allows me to pursue music with a scholarship, while also letting me explore other areas of interest like business and politics. And the fact that it’s just four blocks away from the White House!

How have the arts influenced you? The arts, and music specifically, have informed my plans for the future because I will be studying international business, political science, and music with the intention of finding where the three intersect. I think music can play such an important role in a person’s life, like it has in my own, and in order for the artform to grow, we need the businessmen/women and politicians who support it equally as much as we need the musicians who perform it.

GOLDEN WEST COLLEGE

Rebecca Crane, Westminster High School

Major: psychology

Why this school? I couldn’t afford to go to the four-year of my choice at this point.

Brittney Evans, Huntington Beach High School

Major: undecided

Cole LaBrake, Huntington Beach High School

Major: undecided

Briauna Morehouse, Pacifica High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Convenient location.

Matheus Nogueira, Marina High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Location.

Anthony Mike Paulino, Garden Grove High School

Major: nursing, undeclared

Why this school? It is a good environment and they value art.

GONZAGA UNIVERSITY, Spokane, WA

Haley Kachigan, Los Alamitos High School

Major: pre-physical therapy, human physiology, and education (kinesiology and physical education), $

Allison Sihilling, Costa Mesa High School

Major: business administration, $

Why this school? Gonzaga is a very well-respected business school and I received a very large academic scholarship.

What else? I plan on auditioning and continuing choir at Gonzaga in the fall.

GRACE COLLEGE, Winona Lake, IN

Kaelyn Richards, Los Alamitos High School

Major: elementary education, $

Why this school? It’s a smaller Christian college.

HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY, High Point, NC

Victoria Romero, Huntington Beach High School

Major: communication; Minor: women and gender studies

HOPE INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, Fullerton

Alyssa Hendrickson, Brea Olinda High School

Major: youth and family ministry, $

Why this school? I love the community and on-campus life.

How have the arts influenced you? I plan on being part of a worship team on campus and just overall loving music throughout the rest of my life. My high school choir helped me realize how important music is to me and how big of a role it plays in my development.

IRVINE VALLEY COLLEGE

Alyssa Laughlin, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: biology, undeclared

Why this school? I joined the honors program at Irvine Valley College to finish my two years of general education and later transfer to a UC school.

What else? I plan to continue participating in choir and other vocal ensembles.

LOS ANGELES CITY COLLEGE

Edward Kwon, Brea Olinda High School

Major: photojournalism; Minor: photography

Why this school? Because this school can be the start of something big in my life.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts gave me more confidence and opened my eyes to a new picture.

Constance Maldonado, Garden Grove High School

Major: music; Minor: theater arts, undeclared

Why this school? The music program.

How have the arts influenced you? I found a love for music and I plan to branch out further in the music universe with the intention of teaching music to others.

What else? I plan on spending my two years at LACC then, transfer to Cal State Fullerton. I definitely plan on experiencing a life of music, and hopefully devoting time to teaching children at the Dream Center in LA.

Sebastian Sosa, Costa Mesa High School

Major: music

Why this school? Music students get in tuition free.

How have the arts influenced you? They inspired me to want to be a composer for film and concerts.

What else? I’ve written music for a drama production here at CMHS.

Emily Lomeli, Los Alamitos High School

Major: vocal performance

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO

Kathryn Ramirez, Los Alamitos High School

Major: business management, $

Why this school? It has a five-year program so that I can get my master’s.

MANHATTAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC, New York

Katherine Parrish, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Major: musical theater, undeclared

MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF PHARMACY OF HEALTH AND SCIENCES, Boston

Theresa Le, Westminster High School

Major: pharmacy, $

Why this school? I want to pursue pharmacy and MCPHS offers the best program for that.

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY

Harrison Li, Woodbridge High School

Major: recorded music; Minor: economics, undeclared

Why this school? I got accepted to the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU. It is my dream program as I will be able to pursue music as a career, which is something I’ve always dreamed of.

How have the arts influenced you? I want to study music, which is obviously directly related to the arts. I could not imagine pursuing anything not artistic.

Justin Min, Los Alamitos High School

Major: psychology, undeclared; Minor: sociology, undeclared

Why this school? I love California, but life is ultimately larger than California, and I want college to be a life-changing realization and experience.

How have the arts influenced you? The best part of performing is the ability to make people feel joy. I don’t know how many lives I’ve changed through performance, but I love the idea of projecting joy on someone and making them feel something. I love helping people and I want to do that forever.

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY, Flagstaff

Kyle Hultgren, Los Alamitos High School

Major: English, $

Why this school? It’s a nice location and hockey program.

Macie Sherman, Tesoro High School

Major: busniess administration (marketing), $

Why this school? The campus enviroment.

How have the arts influenced you? I am planning on joining the choir at my school and I want to go into the music business after college. Doing choir and being involved in music has made me want to explore the business side of music.

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY, Evanston, IL

Cassidy Sledge, Mater Dei High School

Major: music studies (music education), $

Why this school? They have the number one music education program in America

How have the arts influenced you? I love vocal music so much that I want to live my life in it. I want to pursue it in college, get my credentials so I can teach what I know, and then come back to my high school and educate our youth there.

NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY, Ft. Lauderdale

Leslie Castellano, Costa Mesa High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? It is the best fit.

ORANGE COAST COLLEGE

Megan Crawford, Huntington Beach High School

Major: communication studies; Minor: sociology

Why this school? Location and cost.

Elizabeth Guldimann, Los Alamitos High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? The language programs.

Rachel Lee, Northwood High School

Major: biological science

Why this school? I have to stay home for another year after high school so I decided to take the community college/transfer route.

Ben Lee-Lopez, Costa Mesa High School

Major: computer science, undeclared

Why this school? A lack of finances combined with the possibility of adapting my future based on early college experiences in my current major of choice.

What else? Continuing choir and potentially drama is currently in my plans.

Carlos Lopez, Costa Mesa High School

Major: undecided; Minor: busniess administration, undeclared, $

Why this school? It is close to home, I am saving a lot of money, and OCC is an amazing transfer school.

Nicholas Sabala, Mater Dei High School

Major: undecided; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? Financial reasons.

How have the arts influenced you? I want to be an elementary school teacher and also teach music.

Gustavo Villalobos, Los Alamitos High School

Major: theater arts

PACE UNIVERSITY, New York

Kaya Faison, Huntington Beach High School

Major: management (arts and entertainment), $

PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, State College

Emma Rutkowski, Huntington Beach High School

Major: environmental systems engineering, $

Why this school? I committed to Penn State because it has a great engineering program, I’ve always wanted to study on the East Coast, and it was my mom’s alma mater.

How have the arts influenced you? There is a clear correlation between mathematical and spatial ability and musical ability. I’ve been in piano and voice lessons for over 10 years and I feel that it has really shaped my academic interests. Even though I am not getting a degree in the arts, I will never stop pursuing the arts whether it be musical theater or orchestra.

PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY

Britain Hope, Tesoro High School

Major: theater, $

Why this school? Since I was given a scholarship to their theater program and that’s what I want to do in my life.

How have the arts influenced you? They’ve made it clear to me that sometimes risks are worth taking if they make you happy and it’s over something you love.

POINT LOMA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY, San Diego

Analise Gates, Tesoro High School

Major: music and ministry, $

Why this school? It’s a small, private, christian school where I can major in music and ministry.

How have the arts influenced you? I plan to major in music due to the passion and knowledge of music I’ve developed over the last 8 years. High school choir has greatly influenced my decision and I’m excited to continue in music.

PURDUE UNIVERSITY, West Lafyette, IN

Bryce McKenzie, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: engineering

Why this school? It has a top ranked engineering program.

SADDLEBACK COLLEGE

Aanicka Balcombe, San Clemente High School

Major: psychology

Lilli Gordon, Tesoro High School

Major: child development, undeclared

Why this school? It is close and has the program I want.

Michael Kline, Tesoro High School

Major: cinema-television-radio, undeclared; Minor: psychology

Why this school? Because it’s cheaper.

SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

Elyse Alves, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? The location and atmosphere.

What else? I hope to find a good vocal music program to be a part of at San Diego State University.

Alyssa Gines, Los Alamitos High School

Major: nursing

Karli Wise, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: kinesiology

Why this school? The location.

Brady Young, Tesoro High School

Major: music

Why this school? Because of the unique music composition program.

How have the arts influenced you? Being in the top notch choral department at Tesoro has inspired me to compose music of all styles and pursue a career in music.

SAN FRANCISCO STATE UNIVERSITY

Samantha Sitton, Huntington Beach High School

Major: communication studies

Why this school? Geat school and town.

Sophia Ungaro, Los Alamitos High School

Major: broadcast and electronic communication arts; Minor: dance

Why this school? As soon as I walked on campus, I fell in love with the environment.

How have the arts influenced you? Being in the choir program at Los Alamitos has shaped who I am today. I loved learning every possible aspect of performance. I had been dancing since the age of 3 and singing since the age of 11. My junior year I got the opportunity to do theater tech for our choir competition season. I fell head over heels in love with the background aspect of performance. I want to be a dance captain for Broadway, cinema, and television. Without the choir program I would never have known I wanted to continue in the arts and I am forever thankful for that.

Matilda Vertiz, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: drama; Minor: psychology

Why this school? I loved the school and their different art programs.

What else? I am most present in vocal music, but I am also actively involved in theater and in the past years I have been part of instrumental music, dance and visual arts.

SANTA ANA COLLEGE

Breanna Castaneda, La Quinta High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s closest to my house.

What else? Learning music and singing music has helped my life so much. I will miss and remember all that I met, and the things I learned from La Quinta High School and especially from my lovely mentor, Ms. Shelby Smith.

Andrew Castrejon, Garden Grove High School

Major: history; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close and I’m familiar with the campus.

Dani Garza, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: education; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? It’s nearby, the first year is free, and it will promise a smooth transition to another school once I transfer out.

How have the arts influenced you? Music has always been apart of my life and without it, I’m not sure what I would’ve done these past four years. While I do intend on studying music as my minor, I will continue singing and being involved in music once I leave high school.

Alyssa Martinez, Katella High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It is affordable and easier.

Lucas Potts, Katella High School

Major: undecided

Karina Torres, Saddleback High School

Major: undecided; Minor: psychology

Why this school? So I can work and save up for a university to study social work.

SANTA BARBARA CITY COLLEGE

Hanna Quinn, Huntington Beach High School

Major: nursing

SANTIAGO CANYON COLLEGE

Alessandra Albertini, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: history

Why this school? I chose this school because it allows me more opportunities in the future.

SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN, Savannah, GA

Abby Turner, Foothill High School

Major: user experience design, undeclared; Minor: graphic design, undeclared, $

Why this school? It has the best program.

How have the arts influenced you? My experience with the arts in high school helped me to discover my passion for both visual arts and vocal performance.

SETON HALL UNIVERSITY, South Orange, NJ

Angie Iadarola, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: environmental studies, and diplomacy and international relations, $

Why this school? It offeres internship programs in Washington DC and the United Nations as opposed to studying abroad.

What else? I plan on auditioning for SHU’s chamber choir and auditioning for the non-major theater productions.

SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

Amber Bleidistel, Tesoro High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because I love campus and programs they have for people who don’t know what they want to do.

THE JUILLIARD SCHOOL, New York

Sydney Dardis, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: music (voice/opera), $

Why this school? The impeccable training, performance opportunities, post-graduate opportunities, and private teachers.

How have the arts influenced you? Attending the classical voice conservatory at Orange County School of the Arts for four years has fostered my passion for opera and has inspired me to pursue operatic performance as a career.

THE MARINE CORPS

Robert Herrera, Westminster High School

Area: military police

UC BERKELEY

Saffron Sener, San Clemente High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s perfect for me!

How have the arts influenced you? My involvement in choir has opened my eyes to the complexity and importance of music, as well as the joy that it brings to those participating in its creation and performance. This realization has led me to decide to pursue the vocal arts in some way at UC Berkeley as well as stay informed about them through working for the school radio station or newspaper, hopefully!

UC DAVIS

Kaveh Faramarzi, Tesoro High School

Major: cognitive science; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? The academic prestige.

UC IRVINE

Kimberly Grant, Huntington Beach High School

Major: business administration

UC MERCED

Maria Apolonio, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: management and business economics

Why this school? I committed to UC Merced because it was the school that offered me the best financial aid package. I wish UC Merced had arts programs that I could participate in regardless of my major. I really wish I could continue singing in college because I just love having a family to look forward spending time with.

UC RIVERSIDE, Riverside

Kayla Cooper, El Modena High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? It’s the four-year that I was accepted to.

How have the arts influenced you? I love to travel and take pictures of new things and also sing and get lost in the music. I don’t want that feeling of expression to leave me.

Tammy Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: political science

Why this school? The location and student culture is most ideal for me.

UC SAN DIEGO

Jahfreen Alam, San Clemente High School

Major: cognitive and behavioral neuroscience

Why this school? Academics and location.

What else? I plan to join an a capella group.

Charles Glaudini, Los Alamitos High School

Major: music performance; Minor: general biology, undeclared

Why this school? It had the best music program out of those that I applied to.

How have the arts influenced you? They have taught me the value of working with other people to create a show. I want to become an accompanist, and the choir program as well as the instrumental music program have allowed me to practice doing this.

Kate Luitjens, San Clemente High School

Major: mathematics; Minor: physics, undeclared, $

Why this school? The flexibility and customizability of the majors.

Megan McCall, Pacifica High School

Major: aerospace engineering; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? It is the most convenient and desired location and it offers a good education at a reasonable price.

How have the arts influenced you? I know that some of my time is college has to be spent studying or participating in the arts. During high school, I found that singing and performing were one of the few things I was good at and actually enjoyed doing. I’m hopeful to have a future that involves musical arts on top of my academic studies!

UC SANTA BARBARA, Santa Barbara, CA

Quinn Greene, Foothill High School

Major: biology pre-major

Sehee Park, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: music (voice), and psychological and brain studies, $

Why this school? They have a perfect program for me to do both psychology and music to prepare me for music therapy in grad school.

Laura Tucker, Foothill High School

Major: political science; Minor: anthropology

Why this school? UCSB has a brilliant campus and a vibrant student body; I believe I can thrive there as an outgoing and optimistic student.

Vonnie Wei, Northwood High School

Major: political science; Minor: music, undeclared

Why this school? UCSB’s beautiful location in California (which is still relatively close to my mentors, all of my arts teachers). Its research-based curriculum, which constantly keeps learning fresh, combined with close relationships I could develop with new mentors and professors is what truly cemented my commitment to SB.

How have the arts influenced you? My involvement in the arts has given me confidence in my leadership and public speaking abilities. I know how to communicate with and bring in new people, assimilate into pre-existing groups, lead and follow as needed for the group, and develop creative solutions for any obstacles in my path – and of course, to never be able to reach out to my community for help when my situation is uncertain.

Choir, band, marching band, theater – these are all my families, and they have taught me that I excel in bringing people together and distinguishing what is right and ethical from wrong, and that is what I intend to do in small communities, hopefully as a productive government employee or social worker. Or maybe I’ll scrap that all and strive to become a creative director someday.

UC SANTA CRUZ

Anne Reyland, San Clemente High School

Major: politics, undeclared

Why this school? The location and the liberal arts programs available at the school.

Olivia Whitney, San Clemente High School

Major: history of art and visual culture, undeclared

Why this school?  I fell in love with the school. The campus is gorgeous, I liked student body and staff, and I felt very comfortable there.

How have the arts influenced you? I love the arts and have grown up in them. I can’t imagine having a career that doesn’t some how involve art. My plans for the future are to study art history or maybe switch to literature, and get a masters degree in film.

UCLA

Nico Zani, Capistrano Valley High School

Major: electrical engineering, $

Why this school? Their fast-track electrical engineering program.

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA, Tuscon

Nicole Junkes, Los Alamitos High School

Major: communication, $

Why this school? Was the best option for the price, distance and programs offered.

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS, Lawrence

Bridgette Singer, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: news and information, $

Why this school? The journalism program.

How have the arts influenced you? I will be studying broadcast journalism in college; therefore, incorporating performing arts in my studies at Santa Margarita Catholic High School helped me conquer my fear of being in front of a large crowd.

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, Lexington

McKenna Pryor, Mission Viejo High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? They have an amazing nursing program.

What else? Even though I don’t plan on continuing with music in college, it has had a huge affect on my life. I’m so incredibly thankful to have such supportive mentors and friends.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, College Park

Shannen Lam, Northwood High School

Major: computer science; Minor: advanced cybersecurity experience for students, undeclared, $

Why this school? For its cyber security honors program and proximity to Washington DC.

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME, South Bend, IN

Miranda Arendt, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: pre-law, undeclared, $

Why this school? I have dreamed of going there for a long time!

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have taught me about who I am on a much deeper level. I have learned to be comfortable with sharing who I am with those around me, and it has instilled in me a sense of confidence that I can study whatever I love and that I can succeed with effort.

John Holland, Corona del Mar High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Notre Dame has the combination of a small student body and a large school spirit that I was looking for. It also offers a lot of opportunities for self-growth — their study abroad opportunities, incredible arts programs, and supportive learning/living culture are all ways that I plan to discover more about myself.

Julia Shard, Corona del Mar High School

Major: engineering, undeclared, $

Why this school? Ever since I attended the two-week Introduction to Engineering Program at the University of Notre Dame last summer, it has been my dream school. The Notre Dame community is unique, welcoming, and supportive, and I immediately felt its presence when I was there. I am also drawn to Notre Dame’s engineering program, study abroad opportunities, and its small-medium size.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA, Norman

Emma Will, Tesoro High School

Major: music (performance) and German, $

Why this school? The faculty and facilities are wonderful.

UNIVERSITY OF PUGET SOUND, Tacoma, WA

Anna MacLeod, Los Alamitos High School

Major: business (business leadership), undeclared, $

Why this school? It’s a beautiful campus, It’s small, intimate and it has a great music department on campus.

Aidan Pipes, Brea Olinda High School

Major: undecided; Minor: theater arts, undeclared, $

Why this school? It’s a small liberal arts college with a good theater program.

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER, Rochester, NY

Haley Cohen, Corona del Mar High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? It is very suited to my wants and needs in college education.

USC

Gabriella Jacobson, Foothill High School

Major: business administration

Charlotte Kim, Brea Olinda High School

Major: linguistics, $

Why this school? I committed to this school because it was close by home. It has a great pre-med track, and my twin is going there.

Cyrus Leland, San Clemente High School

Major: music (composition); Minor: linguistics, undeclared

Why this school? I got a full-tuition need-based scholarship to attend.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve gained so much influence and passion from music – be it instrumental or choral – and the performance of it, that I fostered my abilities as a composer from an early age and have had works performed by high school ensembles.

Despite the fact that I come from a lower income family and never had music lessons as a child, I completely taught myself and eventually was accepted to my top choice, if not dream, school. Music was an outlet for me in greatly difficult and emotional times, and the opportunity to express this feeling of contentment and security to others through my own music is something I want to pursue for the rest of my life.

What else? I plan to pursue a dual degree, with a B.A. in linguistics and a B.M. in composition, as well as participating in the CLS Hindi program in which I will spend my summers in Jaipur, India to study both Hindi and ethnomusicology in the American Institute of Indian Studies.

Sage Moore, Tesoro High School

Major: business administration

Why this school? I committed to USC because it has been my dream school for a while. Everything about it is perfect for me, from the location to the vast opportunities in the entertainment industry, which is a career path I hope to pursue.

How have the arts influenced you? With my extensive experience with choral music, I have become extremely interested in the entertainment industry – specifically the business aspect. In today’s digital age, it is a dynamic industry that is ever-evolving. I am fascinated by the rapid-pace and diverse aspects.

What else? I hope to minor in something that has to do with entertainment, possibly the music industry minor, or the cinematic arts minor at USC.

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY, Nashville

William Schmid, Foothill High School

Major: engineering science, undeclared

Why this school? I want to stay involved in music even if I don’t study it. Nashville is full of performance venues for all kinds of music, and many of the people I’ve talked to that will also be going to Vanderbilt have musical backgrounds and are considering getting involved in the music scene. It is my hope while at Vanderbilt to perform in musical theater productions as well as join an a capella group. All in all, Nashville is the perfect place for me to pursue my education at a prestigious university while still singing and performing.

How have the arts influenced you? I have always loved singing. I have been doing musicals and taking voice lessons since third grade. Joining Madrigals in high school under the direction of Mrs. Dehn solidified my passion for the art, so I know that even if I decide music is not my field of study, it will always be a part of me in some way.

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY

Katarina Blagojevic, El Dorado High School

Major: music (vocal performance), $

Why this school? The incredible music department.

Carissa Huntting, Capistrano Valley High School

Major: music (vocal performance), $

Why this school? Great music program and excellent scholarship opportunities.

VITERBO UNIVERSITY, LaCrosse, WI

Phoebe Rodriguez, Fullerton Union High School

Major: theater (design and technical production), $

Why this school? It offers opportunities for growth as both an artist and a person.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve decided to pursue costuming professionally because of my experience in my high school’s theater program.

WESTMINSTER CHOIR COLLEGE, Princeton, NJ

Dane Madrigal, Servite High School

Major: music education and sacred music, $

Why this school? I ultimately committed to this institution over the Curtis Institute of Music and The Juilliard School because of three factors. The first and foremost being the family atmosphere that Westminster offers. The next best trait for this school is the numerous performance opportunities in cultural centers, while still having the isolationism of being in Princeton. Besides this, Westminster also has the five-year master’s program and dual degree programs that I was looking for in an institution.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have always been a huge portion of life since they have basically take up all of my high school career. I started with choir and theater and did well in both. But it was in music that I found my true passion for life and the majesty that is in it. The art of music is the sound of creation. It is the crashing sea and the morning dove. Music is our common language and music lifts our hearts above.

Art, more specifically music, has given me a transcendent reality that goes beyond the turmoil of the modern world and has shown me truth, beauty, and knowledge that is beyond human measure, of which, I plan to dedicate the rest of life sharing this with the rest of the world. I hope that it will be in both performance and education, but art has shaped my future by calling me. Art has informed what I plan to study in the future because I see no other future than the glory that is music.

What else? I thank my God and my family for every opportunity and blessing that life gives.

YOUNG AMERICANS COLLEGE OF THE PERFORMING ARTS, Corona

Reid Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Major: performance, undeclared

Why this school? I can study the arts and travel at the same time.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have given me a career option that I look forward to. I hope to help underprivileged students have the same experience in the arts that I have had.

YOUNG AMERICANS INSTITUTE OF VENUE AND ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGY, Corona

Austin Wimberly, Los Alamitos High School

Major: technical internship

TAKING A GAP YEAR

Hannah Badger, Orange County School of the Arts

What are you doing during your gap year?  During my deferral, I plan on collaborating with the Mission Viejo Nadadores Dive Team to make a documentary about my sister, a diver, who is on the autism spectrum. We hope that this film will help the team get a grant to expand their program for special

I also want complete some of my core curriculum requirements at Saddleback College. I will also train at CrossFit to apply for an ROTC scholarship at CU Boulder, where I’ve been accepted.

Future school plans: University of Colorado Boulder

Major: astrophysical and planetary science, undeclared, $

Why this school? They have a very well-known, reputable astrophysics department and an impressive ROTC program.

Natalie Wojtaszek, Mater Dei High School

What are you doing during your gap year? I plan to study opera and learn three languages throughout my gap semester.

Future school plans: I plan to audition for schools in Europe.

WORKING / TAKING TIME OFF FROM SCHOOL

Alora Cruz, San Clemente High School

What are your plans? I am married, moving, and starting life early with my high school sweetheart, who is a U.S. Army medic. We will be moving to Tennessee. Aside from supporting my husband and just settling in for a while, I plan to meet up with some friends I’ve met through music, and recording in Nashville.

Nate Baker, Tesoro High School

What are your plans? I will be on a mission in Cape Verde.

Colin Davies, San Clemente High School

What are your plans? Going on an LDS mission.

Thomas Evans, Tesoro High School

What are your plans? Looking for work.

Brooklyn Peters, El Modena High School

What are your plans? Going on an LDS mission.

What else? I’ve been in band and choir for all four years of high school and theater for two with my school and two with the Music Room.

Marc Perez, Los Alamitos High School

What are your plans? Working at Vons part-time.

What else? I hope to attend college to work towards become a nurse practitioner or paramedic.

Ariana Vito, Irvine High School

What are your plans? Working as a part-time nanny with care.com

We asked graduating high school seniors to share with us their post-graduation plans for the fall.

We heard from 486 visual arts students. Some plan to go to work and some are taking a gap year, but most are off to college, to study everything from animation to journalism to marine biology.

We’ve listed them by the school they will attend, including their major and minor fields of study, statements about how the arts have influenced their plans, and their reason for choosing the institute they’ll be headed to.

$ = scholarship received

AMHERST COLLEGE, Amherst, MA

Kyle Nguyen, Segerstrom High School

Major: chemistry

Why this school? It is the most perfect undergraduate education with one of the best alumni. There is no general education requirements. This college focuses on learning what you actually want to learn.

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY, Tempe

Ava Valenzuela, Yorba Linda High School

Major: business

Why this school? The business program.

ART CENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN, Pasadena

Danielle Kim, Brea Olinda High School

Major: illustration, $

Why this school? I received a scholarship.

Tiffany Shen, Northwood High School

Major: illustration, $

Why this school? I believe that Art Center will allow me to have a successful career.

Hannah Shin, Beckman High School

Major: graphic design, $

Why this school? It has good connections to companies, a good reputation, no foundation year (students get to start working on desired major right away) and the curriculum is focused.

How have the arts influenced you? Because of my interest in the art and design field, it led me to make the decision of going to an art school after high school. The art related courses I took throughout high school prepared me to pursue a graphic design career. I took classes and academies outside of high school to prepare my art school portfolio, and I took visual art classes in high school to improve as an artist/designer. Through these art classes and academies, I was able to get advice and help on what I should study in the future and how I can reach my career goals in the arts.

ART INSTITUTE OF CALIFORNIA – ORANGE COUNTY, Santa Ana

Braeden Salido, Beckman High School

Major: game art and design

Why this school? It is convenient and I like the school

Chelsea Valdez, Los Amigos High School

Major: game art and design

Why this school? I want to be an animator and video game designer so I am choosing to go to an arts school.

AUTOGRAF SCHOOL, Paris, France

Marcel Abadia, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: video game art, undeclared

Why this school? It is a new learning experience away from my comfort zone, which helps me explore new perspectives and ideas.

How have the arts influenced you? I found a talent in art only a year ago but I thought it was fun and I wanted to pursue it as a career.

What else? I will only be spending one year in France, then I plan to transfer into Savannah College of Art and Design, where I will be spending the rest of my college days.

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY, Waco, TX

Nicolette PicKell, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: entrepreneurship and corporate innovation; Minor: studio art, undeclared, $

Why this school? It is such an amazing school and a perfect fit for me.

How have the arts influenced you? It allows me to have an outlet for my creativity. I so enjoy creating art!

BIOLA UNIVERSITY, La Mirada

Joshua Flores, Beckman High School

Major: English, $

Rafael Gomez, Ocean View High School

Major: art (studio art), $

Why this school? Because it was the school that drew my attention the most.

BOSTON UNIVERSITY

Alice Lee, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: behavior and health, $

Why this school? It has the major what I want to get.

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY, Provo, UT

Peter Ellsworth, San Juan Hills High School

Major: engineering, undeclared

Why this school? Family legacy and religious beliefs.

What else? I want to take courses that have to deal with photography and expand my knowledge of techniques and concepts.

CAL POLY POMONA

Andres Agredano, Katella High School

Major: business administration

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Jailene Aguilar, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: kinesiology (health promotion)

Why this school? It was one of my top choices for a Cal State University.

Shaina Fraser, University High School

Major: communication (public relations)

Why this school? The campus feels welcoming to me as well as exciting.

Payton Jara, El Modena High School

Major: apparel merchandising and management; Minor: fashion merchandising, undeclared

Why this school? It has my major.

Siwoo Kim, Brea Olinda High School

Major: graphic design and aerospace engineering, undeclared, $

Why this school? It’s close to where I live and and I’m interested in engineering.

How have the arts influenced you? I found I have a passion in art and that it is something I want to do most. I’m going to definitely keep on trying taking art classes to learn more about art and if its the right path for me.

What else? I’m planning to go to dental school and become a dentist if I can.

Joshua Ryan, Brea Olinda High School

Major: architecture

Why this school? Because of my major.

How have the arts influenced you? I have wanted to study architecture since I was little, but my art class has definitely broadened my spectrum of artistic nature and capabilities.

CAL POLY SAN LUIS OBISPO

Angelee Chea, Oxford Academy

Major: architecture; Minor: French, undeclared

Why this school? It is one of the best in the nation for my major

How have the arts influenced you? Art has always been something special to me, and I loved designing compositions and seeing my artwork come to life. Ultimately, however, I knew that I didn’t want to do traditional arts or graphic design or animation as a future career, but I still wanted to make art a major aspect of my life and career. That’s why I decided to major in architecture, as it is a way for me to combine both my technical and creative skills together to literally see my art come to life.

Jordan Gosse, El Modena High School

Major: environmental earth and soil sciences

Why this school? Nice campus.

Kaycee Greene, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: psychology, $

Why this school? I believe it is the best fit for me regarding its education, community and location.

Eliana Maietta, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: biological sciences

Why this school? Money.

How have the arts influenced you? They have convinced me that I can’t ignore my creative side, and that I don’t want to.

Quinn Santone, Yorba Linda High School

Major: photography and video

Why this school? I was really impressed with the hands-on aspect of their school, and the fact that I don’t have to wait two years in order to practice what I love.

How have the arts influenced you? Studying the arts in high school has allowed me to get a head start on my possible career path. I am already working as a freelance photographer and slowly developing my style. Now, without taking that first step and just signing up for AP Photography my senior year, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today.

Ryan Vosbigian, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: environmental management and protection

Why this school? The hands-on program, overall costs and my general “feel” of the campus led my to commit at Cal Poly SLO.

Mikayla Welfringer, Ocean View High School

Major: business administration, $

Why this school? It is the perfect fit for me.

Kate Worrell, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: environmental management and protection; Minor: studio art, undeclared

Why this school? It is an affordable price so that I will not be drowning in student debt after school. And, it has almost all the resources in comparison to the privates I was also looking at. The class sizes are not too big and it has the major and minor I want. Also, it is four hours away from home, which is far enough away so that I can feel like I am independent from my home.

How have the arts influenced you? I will be minoring in art so I will continue my art education. But for my major specifically, art has allowed me to be a very visual person, which fuels my love for the environment. I want to keep this planet beautiful for future generations. Art has also helped me be a more creative problem solver and expand my thinking about what can be done with science. I hope that in the future, my art will continue to fuel my passion for my future career in environmental management and protection.

CAL STATE CHANNEL ISLANDS

Tessa Churchin, Huntington Beach High School

Major: art (studio art); Minor: psychology

Why this school? The location is absolutely breathtaking and the arts program is exactly what I am looking for.

How have the arts influenced you? Being involved in high school ceramics and art has led me to determine my future career path: teaching high school art. I was pleasantly overwhelmed the very first time I stepped foot in the art building. From then on, working with my peers and discovering my own passion has helped me decide to be an art teacher.

What else? I have so many amazing ideas for artwork that I would like to create but simply haven’t had enough time to complete them all. This coming year in college, I hope to get these fantastic ideas out of my mind, onto paper and into clay.

CAL STATE DOMINGUEZ HILLS

Ebony Gonzalez, Los Amigos High School

Major: art

Why this school? I just feel it would suit me and I am going with the flow. I’m just glad that I will be continuing my education.

What else? Art is my escape and just one of my few talents but it is something I will never stop doing.

CAL STATE EAST BAY

Aaron Lopez, Los Amigos High School

Major: psychology; Minor: communication

Why this school? I chose this school because of the location and because it offers a great program for my future major.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts influence me by leading me on a creative path and by being open to new experiences.

CAL STATE FULLERTON

Nicholas Amarillo, Fountain Valley High School

Major: computer engineering

Why this school? I committed because it’s a great school in general and everyone there is super friendly.

Christopher Anagnostou, El Dorado High School

Major: Japanese; Minor: English, $

Why this school? They have fantastic history and teaching programs.

Kendal Bainter, Brea Olinda High School

Major: biological science (ecology and evolutionary biology); Minor: anthropology, undeclared

Why this school? It is close to home so I can save money to travel.

What else? I do not plan on majoring in art in college, however, I plan on joining art clubs as well as taking many art classes.

Jonathan Bauer, Villa Park High School

Major: art (entertainment art/animation), undeclared; Minor: German, undeclared

Why this school? They have a great animation program with ties to Disney.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have shown how creative I can get with my projects as well as helping me realize how fun it is to be able to make my imagination come to life.

Brandon Bollinger, Yorba Linda High School

Major: art (graphic design)

Why this school? Recommendation from my high school teachers.

Isabella Braseny, Yorba Linda High School

Major: art; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? Because it is close by and is not too expensive.

Kelly Casterline, El Dorado High School

Major: communications; Minor: business administration, undeclared

Why this school? It’s the cheapest option.

What else? I love photography so much and I want to continue it in my later life. If the job that I want to pursue when I get older gets busy while managing a family, I would love to have photography as a backup just in case. Photography will for sure be a hobby for me to keep throughout my college and career after.  kellyc1022.wixsite.com/photography

Francis Castillo, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because it’s convenient.

Luis De La Torre, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: business administration, $

Why this school? I committed to this school because I had heard that they had a really good business program and that is what I was looking for.

Joan Delgado, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: business administration, $

Why this school? It’s close to home and affordable.

Tsoler Discioglu, Beckman High School

Major: art (illustration)

Why this school? I committed to this school due to hearing about their arts program along with being associated with the area.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have greatly influenced my decision to study illustration. I enjoy the process of creating a piece that allows people to feel a certain emotion when looking upon it.

Jennifer Do, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: civil engineering

Why this school? I heard it is an incredible college.

Michelle Do, Valencia High School

Major: nursing, undeclared; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? They have a good nursing and arts program.

Citlalitl Gomez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided, $

Why this school? It is close to home.

Jaziel Huerta, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s close to home, my friends and my family.

How have the arts influenced you? I thought I wanted to major in business, but after taking art for two years and seeing how much I have come to love it, I really am undecided.

Adrian Islas, Santa Ana High School

Major: art (entertainment art/animation); Minor: computer science

Why this school? I am intrigued by the animation program.

Ronaldo Juarez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: business administration, undeclared, $

Why this school? I found it to be the best fit as well as one of the best colleges for a business major.

Alyson Kim, Beckman High School

Major: art (entertainment art/animation), undeclared

Why this school? Rather than going to an art school to restrict my interests and other career possibilities, I committed to an university where I could explore a variety of options rather than just art. Cal State Fullerton, however, still has a notable animation program despite its university status.

How have the arts influenced you? I have been doing art all my life and now am considering to use it as a possible career option. Although art is a competitive field, drawing and painting is just one of the few things that I believe my life would not be complete without. Art has become part of my identity and attempting to live without art would be somewhat difficult. A job in the visual arts would be something that I wouldn’t hesitate to wake up to everyday.

Obeid Lakhani, Katella High School

Major: mechanical engineering

Omeed Mansouri, Beckman High School

Major: biological science

Why this school? I feel that it is more to my benefit than attending community college.

Alicia Mejia, Katella High School

Major: criminal justice

Why this school? It’s close.

Christina Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: psychology

Why this school? I have taken tours of this school and feel that it is a good fit for me. I believe that I will enjoy the many programs that it has to offer as well as getting to know the campus and my fellow peers.

Thao Julie Nguyen, Orange High School

Major: business administration and art, $

Why this school? It is close to home.

Joseline Parra, Ocean View High School

Major: nursing; Minor: mathematics, undeclared, $

Why this school? It has great programs and it’s a small campus.

Jose Perez, El Modena High School

Major: biological science, $

Why this school? I want to pursue a higher education and one day to become a doctor.

How have the arts influenced you? Art inspired me to look at the real world from a different perspective – to not let fear interfere on the goals that I want to accomplish in the future. If I want to make a change in this world, I need to start by changing negatives into positive outcomes.

James Pham, La Quinta High School

Major: civil engineering

Why this school? The school is nearby my house.

What else? I wanted to major in music but I might minor in it instead.

Jasmine Ramirez, Katella High School

Major: business administration

Why this school? I thought going to a four-year college would be the best choice. I also want to continue with my education.

Tommy Torres, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: mechanical engineering

Why this school? The expenses were a better option for me and my family, and I am able to study the major that I want to.

Kassie Vasquez, Mater Dei High School

Major: dance, $

Why this school? The dance program.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have influenced my ability to be creative and has encouraged my self-growth. I have become a confident person through my involvement in both performing and visual arts. My love of the arts has shown me the possibility of pursuing the arts as a career in the future.

Chun Yau Simon Wong, Laguna Hills High School

Major: business administration

Why this school? I like the school and the people there.

Blia Yang, Los Amigos High School

Major: art (entertainment art/animation), $

Why this school? It’s close to home and has a relatively good art program.

How have the arts influenced you? I love art and art makes me happy. To be able to pursue it and make a living off of it would be amazing because when I would work, it wouldn’t feel like work. And if I could, it would be nice to affect the lives of others from my work. To make someone feel something or think about something — that would be pretty cool.

What else? Here’s to a new year of money, tears and laughter; wish me luck in this big, new world.

CAL STATE LONG BEACH

Bryce Ash, Fountain Valley High School

Major: business administration (accountancy); Minor: finance, $

Why this school? It’s affordable and relatively close. Also, it has a good business program.

Joselin Benitez, Ocean View High School

Major: criminology and criminal justice

Why this school? It has my major and it is close by home.

Morgan Bero, Ocean View High School

Major: business administration; Minor: event planning management, undeclared

Why this school? It has a good business program and it’s close to home but where I can still live in the dorms.

Ana Berrelleza, Santa Ana High School

Major: art, $

Why this school? Cal State Long Beach has a great art program.

What else? I love creating art and it is something that I want to keep doing in the future. I want to study graphic design because it involves art and using computers, two things that I enjoy doing.

Samuel Christian, Ocean View High School

Major: psychology

Why this school? Because it has the degree I want to get.

Jennifer Espinoza, Ocean View High School

Major: art and English education; Minor: mathematics, undeclared, $

Why this school? I might transfer to Cal State Los Angeles in three years, but the reason I decided to go to Cal State Long Beach is because it is closer to home and I believe it is a good school for me.

George Hanna, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biology

Why this school? It’s close and offers a good education.

Kimberly Hernandez, Estancia High School

Major: art (3D media), $

Why this school? It is local and it has the major that I want to study.

How have the arts influenced you? I have always enjoyed art and it has helped me realize my love for cartoons. Therefore, I plan to major in 3D media arts.

Katie Ho, Fountain Valley High School

Major: business administration

Why this school? Because it’s a good school for business even though it’s known for engineering

Sean Huynh, Fountain Valley High School

Major: kinesiology (exercise science)

Why this school? It was the only college that I was admitted to.

Samantha Kobel, Brethren Christian High School

Major: art and psychology

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Nathan Le, Fountain Valley High School

Major: kinesiology

Why this school? Because I like the campus and the teachers there are really good. Also, because of my friends.

Alexis Lopez, Ocean View High School

Major: criminology and criminal justice

Why this school? The school has a great criminal justice program.

Emily Mayorquin, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided

Kelsie Newman, Ocean View High School

Major: athletic training

Why this school? They have a good athletic training program, and I am running cross country and track there.

Chandra Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: nursing

Why this school? CSULB has a great nursing program.

Melanie Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? It’s close and offers a good education.

How have the arts influenced you? I realized I had a passion for creating and being hands-on, but I am also torn between doing something medical. So, I have decided to mash the two and go down the road to be a plastic surgeon. It’s the best of both worlds!

Michael Pham, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because it is a good school.

Anastashya Seraphin, Newport Harbor High School

Major: art (drawing and painting)

Why this school? I got into Otis College of Art and Design but unfortunately I could not afford it even with financial aid. I chose Cal State Long Beach in hopes that I will be able to transfer to Otis later in my college career.

How have the arts influenced you? Art means everything to me. I began doing art my freshman year of high school and worked to improve my drawing and painting skills. Now that I’m off to college, I hope to further these skills more and eventually get a master’s in art. Although I love art, music has always also been an influence for me and I have frequently thought of wanting to be a sound designer as well along with a major in art.

Christopher Tran, Fountain Valley High School

Major: computer science, $

Why this school? It was the only school I got into.

Sydney Tripoli, Los Alamitos High School

Major: nursing; Minor: music

Why this school? It has an amazing nursing program, and it’s close to home.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve had a passion for music my whole high school career, and just being in the arts, I found a love for people and helping people, which got me interested in nursing.

CAL STATE MONTEREY BAY

Katy Gerber, Valencia High School

Major: human communication; Minor: cinematic arts, $

Why this school? Their communications program has a wide range of classes I am interested in taking, and their cinema arts and technology program blends all elements of production.

How have the arts influenced you? Because of their pure, unrestricted freedom of expression, the Beat Generation has inspired me beyond all else. I believe that their vision of the powerful individual needs to be revisited in modern culture and I have no greater desire in life than to find myself amidst such a movement. In the ‘40s and ‘50s, much of this was communicated through written word, which, unfortunately, carries less weight with millennials.

It is for this reason that I have chosen the media field with which to spread such a message – I can reach more people. I am a storyteller and a filmmaker. While I respect the freedom of art, I also recognize its influence as a responsibility because what we produce shapes perception. We as a people are influenced by what the media presents, which is what makes it the perfect venue for what I want to do. I do have a motivation other than simply continuing in visual media as I have through photography, short films, Placentia City Council, TEDx, and serving as a producer for Valencia’s video student news. This is why I enjoy working in public media; what we produce has an effect on those who view it.

Hannah Hall, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: psychology; Minor: visual and public art

Mary Sweeney, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: social and behaviors sciences; Minor: visual and public art, undeclared

Why this school? It’s a good school with lots of history, and good people.

How have the arts influenced you? It’s something I’ve always had a passion for, and being able to incorporate the arts with behavioral science is something I’ve always wanted to do.

CAL STATE SAN MARCOS

Diana Ramos, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: child and adolescent development, $

Why this school? It has my major.

Cassie Trent, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: communications and mass media, undeclared

Why this school? I am familiar with the area. The campus is newly updated and renovated. They have a pretty-well-put-together curriculum, not a huge party scene, and it is in an ideal location to be my own individual.

CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY, Riverside

Sarah Fisher, Esperanza High School

Major: psychology and visual arts; Minor: Christian behavioral science, $

Why this school? The school is an unapologetic Christian university. They have a reputable psychology program as well as an off-site art exhibit for their students’ work. The community is welcoming and the staff is encouraging. I love everything about the school.

How have the arts influenced you? I am a well-rounded arts student. I am a visual artist, a dancer and a soprano in choir. My love for the arts has inspired me to be a visual arts/psychology double major and I will continue with vocal music in college. This year, I learned that I can follow my dreams by doing my artwork and pursuing careers in fields of interest to me instead of doing what most other graduates do – study business.

What else? I can’t continue with dance through college because my college does not offer classes and dance studios are too expensive to pay for along with college fees.

CALIFORNIA COLLEGE OF THE ARTS, Oakland

Katrina Ujiie, Beckman High School

Major: graphic design, $

What else? I also am looking to intern with a company in the entertainment business and film business.

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY, Pittsburgh

Jasmine Hsiao, University High School

Major: fine arts

Why this school? The environment.

How have the arts influenced you? Taking both studio art and graphic design has increased my interest in more intersectional art.

CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY

Allyson Ashford, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: public relations and advertising, $

Why this school? It has one of the best film schools and has the major I want that includes art and business.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have been such a big part of my life from when I was young and performing in bands and writing songs to pursuing film school and working in the film and entertainment industry in an artistic way using business skills. I am such a creative person and I feel so blessed to be able to study in college a major that benefits and nurtures my creative style but also training me to be productive and valuable for the workforce.

What else? I get to continue working in movies and music all summer long with my internship and I am so excited to be a Panther in the fall.

Calissa Bacino, University High School

Major: business administration and graphic design, $

Why this school? Chapman provides the perfect curriculum for the two majors that I will be pursuing and has so many connections and opportunities in place for its students. I fell in love with the campus and all of the people there. I knew right away that it was meant to be my home for the next chapter of my life!

How have the arts influenced you? Since I was a little girl, I’ve loved two things: creativity and being the boss. As I got older and learned more about where I could — and would — be successful, it grew more and more clear to me that running a business was something that I strived to do. I want to be able to make my own decisions and dictate the success of my company. The only question: What would my business be about?

The moment that I started graphic design, I fell in love. I finally had the ability to take my thoughts and create visuals that expressed exactly what I wanted them to. I fell in love with the feeling of seeing that final product, of making my clients happy and feeling that I had achieved something great. When I realized that I could combine that love with business, it just made sense to me.

I’ve learned so many different skills that I can take with me into my future and I’ve built this artistic tool belt that I work with constantly. I can advertise, I can tastefully decorate a house, I can design wedding dresses; the possibilities are never-ending. The arts offered me this perfectly fitting piece of my future that I had been looking for, for so long, and I’m so glad that I found it.

What else? I am currently in the process of building my online business and a website to showcase my photography and travels in the coming months. I plan to travel abroad during my sophomore year at Chapman University to study the vast business philosophies around the world as well as the influence of politics, geographic location and big business on fashion trends and staples across the globe. I also plan to intern at a fashion magazine once I begin my studies.

Steven Lee, Northwood High School

Major: digital arts; Minor: graphic design , $

Why this school? Although I want a career as a visual development artist, I want to learn not only illustration but also animation to build up my skill level. All art schools require students to limit their major to just one area of art, but Chapman provides a major that

How have the arts influenced you? My family raised me through music and art. I don’t go a day without singing, playing the piano or violin, or doodling an observation in my sketchbook. Every night, before I fall asleep, I enjoy exploring a visual or musical concept in a library full of stories in my head. It feels as though I am pulling out and playing a DVD, and a film begins to create itself. These fragments of my imagination frequently enter my flight-filled, color-exploding, symphony-playing dreams. Every morning, before I can forget them, I quickly draw my dreams in my sketchbook, describe the concepts in my notebook, or experiment with unusual, dissonant chords on a piano.

The majority of my artwork, whether it be a finished painting or a doodle in my school planner, is inspired by music. In the same way, the short musical snippets I compose are also based off of visuals in my head before playing the first note on a piano. I sometimes listen to an hour-long symphony, and I create an entire story, following the music and drawing the colorful pictures that enter my head. In high school, I’ve been given the opportunity to explore my imagination through the visual and performing arts program at Northwood. I have been involved in choir, orchestra, marching band, computer graphics, and visual arts all four years, and my school’s TV broadcast program and newspaper as a graphics editor my last year.

I believe these experiences have taught me what it means to me an artist, the ways I can affect people through multiple mediums, and why it is salient in creating the culture of the future. I can do this through the career of a visual development artist, creating characters, environments, elements of a story that influence the way a story is told on film. I hope to send powerful messages and a more resonant and interactive experience for any audience. Helping people understand the nature of humanity can show us how to live among a broken world. My hope is that I can use my creative abilities to reach a universal audience, using visual development’s limitless nature to depict reality in profound ways.

What else? I plan to use freelance graphic design and illustration as side hobbies/pay jobs to get the experience.

Katharine Schwartz, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Major: integrated education studies, undeclared; Minor: graphic design, undeclared

COASTLINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Joceline Adame, Ocean View High School

Major: paralegal studies

Why this school? I committed to this school because they have a great program for paralegal studies, which I would like to do.

COLLEGE OF THE HOLY CROSS, Worcester, MA

Bianca Tatum, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It had the highest ranking out of all the schools I got into.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY IRVINE

Maryam Ghassemi, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because I can continue in Lutheran schools and stay near home for horseback riding reasons.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN, Mequon

Alexandra Tomich, San Juan Hills High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? Great nursing program and soccer team.

What else? I am playing on CUW’s women’s soccer team.

CORNELL UNIVERSITY, Ithaca, NY

Annice Lee, Brea Olinda High School

Major: design and environmental analysis, $

Why this school? It was my top choice.

How have the arts influenced you? It allowed me to realize that art is the only thing I really enjoy learning and want to do in the future.

CYPRESS COLLEGE

Isaias Arzola, Katella High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I committed this school because it has my career job.

Marilyn Meng, Cornelia Connelly School

Major: undecided; Minor: art

Why this school? Because I want to go easy for two years before transferring to a university.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve always had a passion for art as a way to express myself.

Thanh Nguyen, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: animation 2D computer graphics, $

Why this school? Because I heard that they have a really good transfer rate and a good art major.

How have the arts influenced you? Because since I was young, art has always been there to help me through struggles and hardships. Art has influenced my thoughts and actions, my ideology and how I view the world itself. I also want to work with art so I can inspire more people to work with art.

Elizabeth Pena, Savanna High School

Major: registered nursing

Why this school? The medical program.

Kiet Pham, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: registered nursing, undeclared

Why this school? The location.

Michelle Rodriguez, Santiago High School

Major: photography; Minor: business administration

Why this school? Eventually, I want to complete a photo journalism program. They have a good reputation for a strong foundation.

What else? I plan to work on my portfolio and get more experience in the field while I get my general education. I will also volunteer at the local newspaper and get involved with the newspaper and photography club at my junior college.

Janoah Saruca, Katella High School

Major: registered nursing; Minor: photography, undeclared, $

Why this school? The school is close by to where I live.

Colson Timblin, Brethren Christian High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Convenience.

What else? I love being creative/making beautiful images/objects and want to do it for the rest of my life

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, Hanover, NH

Colin Morrell, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: anthropology and biophysical chemistry, undeclared; Minor: studio art, $

Why this school? People smiled and were welcoming and seemed warm-hearted. I really felt like the school embraced a culture based on community and team work as opposed to competitiveness. It felt like home, and then I am able to study pre-med while continuing to do everything that I love – especially my art.

How have the arts influenced you? I believe there are serious connections between people, art, nature and culture. Art influences how we think and even how our bodies function. Pursuing studio art in college allows me to delve deeply into this technical and quite literal visceral reality of the creative process. I would like to study painting, photography and ceramics in a dynamic and organic studio environment. And I am compelled to explore, experience and apply my creativity to make a more sustainable and personal world.

DIGIPEN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, Redmond, WA

Nelson Lo, University High School

Major: digital art and animation, $

Why this school? I like their program the most.

What else? I want to be an animator.

EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY, Prescott, AZ

Anthony Juan, University High School

Major: aeronautical engineering, $

Why this school? They are a small private school that specializes in my major.

ENCORE FINE ARTS ADULT PROGRAM, Huntington Beach

Jonathan Thomas, Hope School

Major: fine arts

EVANGEL UNIVERSITY, Springfield, MO

Lily Hastie, Laguna Hills High School

Major: digital art; Minor: digital journalism

Why this school? I fell in love with everything about the school while visiting. They have an amazing art space and program! I used to live in Missouri, so it feels kind of like my second home. My family’s last name is also very well-known there.

How have the arts influenced you? My dad is a graphic designer, so I grew up seeing him drawing all the time and stuff like that. I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember, and it feels so effortless when I do so. Taking art throughout my school years has encouraged me to continue, and has confirmed that this is what I feel is my calling in life.

What else? I honestly wasn’t expecting to go out of state for college, but through a series of crazy events throughout a two-week period, it all fell into place. I’m so excited for something new, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me.

FASHION INSTITUTE OF DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING, Irvine

Gustavo Pineda, Loara High School

Major: merchandise product development, $

Why this school? It’s the biggest fashion school and I want to be in the fashion industry.

How have the arts influenced you? Art, to me, is so inspirational because art has no set limit. There is no one standard for art because art is universal. It’s different wherever you go, just like clothing.

FLORENCE INSTITUTE OF DESIGN INTERNATIONAL, Florence, Italy

Vanessa Lortal, Laguna Beach High School

Major: interior design

Why this school? Because it has a very strong background in the design field, and I chose to gain more traveling experience.

How have the arts influenced you? I have always had a very strong interest in the arts, ever since I started taking art classes in high school four years ago. It made me think of the possibilities in this field. Joining AP 2D design taught me the different aspects of design, and therefore, I was able to discover the ways one can create art from an empty space. This is how I gained interest in the interior design field.

What else? I am plan to study interior design for hotels.

FULLERTON COLLEGE

Lexi Alives, Brea Olinda High School

Major: art; Minor: computer animation/multimedia

Why this school? To start off in a community college first.

Diana Alvarez, Valencia High School

Major: theater arts

Why this school? They have an INCREDIBLE costuming program that I cannot wait to get my hands on!

Kimberlie Carbajal, Los Amigos High School

Major: economics, undeclared, $

Why this school? Great environment

Brittany Cope, Brea Olinda High School

Major: pre-nursing

Why this school? Why spend a lot of money on an expensive college for general education when I can go to a junior college for cheaper, and then go to a nursing school.

Raymond Duran, El Dorado High School

Major: business management, undeclared; Minor: engineering, undeclared, $

Why this school? This school offers my major.

Ryan Frederickson, El Dorado High School

Major: theater arts

Luis Garcia, Katella High School

Major: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? Because it has what I need to study.

How have the arts influenced you? It helped by letting me see how amazing people are.

Kara Hager, Yorba Linda High School

Major: psychology

Adrian Higareda, Katella High School

Major: television/film

Why this school? It’s the closest one that accepted me.

Vivian Jacobo, Valencia High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because of the good programs it has in law and arts.

What else? Even though I am on my way to study to become a lawyer, I keep art with me to help me relieve stress and to express myself. So, I plan to take an art class next year.

Ryan Justin Leynes, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: political science

Why this school? I like this school.

Juan Leyva, Katella High School

Major: advertising and graphic design

Why this school? To find my career path.

How have the arts influenced you? I figured out what I’m going to do for my job.

Diego Luna, Valencia High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I wanted to stay local and have a college to help me transfer out to either a UC or CSU.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have opened my eyes to the possibility of pursuing a career in either photography or graphic design if I do so desire.

Jacqueline Martinez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: engineering; Minor: art

Why this school? It’s a great school with many great programs.

Deanne Medina, Katella High School

Major: sociology

Why this school? It’s close to where I live.

Manuel Miranda, Katella High School

Major: construction safety, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Ali Mohamed, El Dorado High School

Major: television/film, undeclared

Why this school? It’s nearby.

Alexandra Morales, El Dorado High School

Major: accounting

Why this school? Still undecided.

Emily Muntean, Brea Olinda High School

Major: art, undeclared

Why this school? I committed to this school because it is affordable and also has a wonderful art program.

What else? As an adult, I hope to be a commissioned artist for companies and organizations whose signs and advertisements are widely known throughout the nation, and maybe even the world. I want my art to be able to raise questions and emotions from its spectators and inspire those who yearn to be inspired. To do this, I know that I need to refine the skills that I have now to their maximum abilities.

Angie Nguyen, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: business administration, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close to home.

How have the arts influenced you? Art encourages me to cherish intuition, uncertainty and creativity and to search constantly for new ideas.

What else? I will attend Fullerton College to get my AA degree next year and after that will transfer to Cal State Fullerton.

Julia Normandeau, Valencia High School

Major: computer science

Why this school? It is close and I plan to transfer to a university after finishing my general education classes.

Paz Perez, Katella High School

Major: automotive technology

Why this school? It has the major I want to go into

Celeste Pineda, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: early childhood education

How have the arts influenced you? I’ll use arts in my classroom to encourage kids to be creative.

Heli QaraAli, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biology; Minor: television/film

Why this school? To save money.

Jack Rentfro, Yorba Linda High School

Major: photography; Minor: advertising and graphic design

Why this school? The photography and graphic design classes.

Iman Reza, Katella High School

Major: art

Why this school? Because it is close to home.

Cameren Sorrentino, Valencia High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I got denied from the two other schools I applied to. I plan on transferring after the second year.

Hannah Tomlinson, El Dorado High School

Major: communication studies; Minor: photography and journalism, undeclared

Kaleigh Wyckhouse, Brea Olinda High School

Major: illustration, $

Why this school? I plan to start at Fullerton College and transfer to a four-year school for art, and I am interested in the art and Japanese program that this school offers. I’ve heard increasingly positive stories from those I know attending Fullerton College about the art programs as well as the instructors there.

How have the arts influenced you? Everyone wants to do what they love, and so do I in pursuing art in the future. The classes I have had the opportunity to take both at and away from my high school have enlightened me about all of the different pathways I can take in the art world.

As of right now, I want to study illustration and all of the subcategories that fall under the broad term. There are so many different types of illustration, and I think that is a lot of what interests me about the subject. I’ve been able to take such joy from my art, and I really want to spread that happiness to others through my work.

Hyeyeon Gloria Yang, Brea Olinda High School

Major: early childhood development

GOLDEN WEST COLLEGE

Mary Aksdal, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Location.

Fredi Alvarez, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because this school has a great transfer rate.

Shakira Arellano, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s close to my home so I won’t have to worry about a far commute.

How have the arts influenced you? I haven’t quite decided what I want to study, but I am considering doing something art related.

Brittney Cao, La Quinta High School

Major: studio arts, undeclared

Why this school? The school is close to where my residence is located.

Zachary Capuano, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided; Minor: Spanish

Why this school? I don’t want a four-year at first.

Vanesa Cardoso, Ocean View High School

Major: criminal justice

Why this school? It has a good class for what I want my career to be.

Kacey Desantis, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? The ability to transfer.

Cecilia Eumana, Ocean View High School

Major: business administration, undeclared; Minor: mathematics, undeclared

Why this school? I chose this school because its the closest school to me.

Fernando Fernandez, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: barbering, $

Carolina Garza, Costa Mesa High School

Major: American Sign Language interpreting, undeclared

Why this school? I took an American Sign Language class there my junior year and loved it.

How have the arts influenced you? Being in photography has completely changed who I am. I take photos that tell stories to send a message. Stories that “shouldn’t” be talked about at school; if I can change even one person’s perspective why stop now?

Joseline Gazano, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: cosmetology; Minor: nursing, undeclared, $

Luz Gil, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I chose to commit to GWC because I’m still a bit indecisive on what it is I want to major in.

What else? In the past four years, I’ve developed a love and interest for photography, videography and editing.

Daniel Le, Fountain Valley High School

Major: automotive technology

Brandon Maciel, Ocean View High School

Major: automotive technology

Evelyn Miranda, Ocean View High School

Major: criminal justice, $

Why this school? It’s close to my house.

Karina Miranda, Ocean View High School

Major: biology

Why this school? It’s cheap.

Anna Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I plan to transfer to Cal State Long Beach after community college to save money.

How have the arts influenced you? Since I plan to study industrial design, it requires some artistic talent in order to design products in order to make them look pleasing while still functional.

Nick Perreira, Valencia High School

Major: nursing, undeclared

Why this school? Football.

What else? I’m going big – just watch.

Travis Petrovich, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided; Minor: theater arts, undeclared

Why this school? The campus is absolutely gorgeous and the people seemed warm and inviting in every way.

How have the arts influenced you? I discovered my truest self through the arts and my confidence increased greatly because of it.

What else? I hope to make a film – feature length. The arts have inspired me to take a risk. I love art simply because my mind is my only limit.

Juan Romero, Ocean View High School

Major: criminal justice

Jennifer Velazquez, Rancho Alamitos High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Community college is the safest, cheapest option for my financial situation.

Verity Webster, Fountain Valley High School

Major: art

Why this school? It’s close to home and affordable! I’m planning to transfer to UC Santa Cruz in two years and double major in art and marine biology

How have the arts influenced you? I really want to do something I enjoy doing, which is art, and marine bio. It would be fantastic to combine them together and illustrate different marine species.

GRACELAND UNIVERSITY, Lamoni, IA

Lauren Reynolds, Ocean View High School

Major: elementary education, $

Why this school? To pursue not only my educational career but also my soccer career.

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY, Phoenix

Elizabeth Meador, Brethren Christian High School

Major: forensic science, $

Why this school? Their science program is super good.

How have the arts influenced you? Human figures are beautiful, and I’ll be working with cadavers in the future.

HARVEY MUDD COLLEGE, Claremont

Alice Chi, Canyon High School

Major: engineering or computer science, undeclared; Minor: humanities (visual arts), undeclared, $

Why this school? Harvey Mudd is one of the best liberal arts colleges for STEM and I really like the small class sizes and the intimate learning environment. You can really tell that the professors there care about their students and their education.

Another reason is that because they are a liberal arts school, they believe in the importance of mixing STEM and the humanities so I will be able to pursue art as my humanities “minor” while also pursuing a STEM major. They allow me to pursue my passions in both science and art in a way that not a lot of other colleges would give me the opportunity to do.

I also like that you have the benefits of a small school from just Harvey Mudd as well as the benefits and resources of a larger school from the whole Claremont Consortium consisting of Claremont McKenna, Pomona, Pitzer, Scripps and Harvey Mudd.

HAWAII PACIFIC UNIVERSITY, Honolulu

Sally Chew, El Dorado High School

Major: marine biology, $

HUMBOLDT STATE UNIVERSITY, Arcata

Maia Nguyen, Beckman High School

Major: wildlife (conservation biology/applied vertebrate ecology), $

How have the arts influenced you? Graphic design incorporates skills that are useful in all aspects of education. Arrangement, writing and computer skills have given me a background in the technology needed in science.

What else? I will possibly plan on continuing graphic design as a hobby. I can create layouts and logos for friends that need it.

INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON, Bloomington

Connor Jordan, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Major: business, undeclared; Minor: studio art, undeclared

IRVINE VALLEY COLLEGE, Irvine

Isaac Almengor, Beckman High School

Major: digital media arts

Jackie Awad, University High School

Major: digital media arts

Why this school? Because I wanted to have a better chance of transferring to my dream art school.

Arely Barrera, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided, $

Jeylan Baydemir, Fountain Valley High School

Major: chemistry; Minor: business management, undeclared

Why this school?  I want to work on my grades before enrolling in a four-year in Boston. If plans for the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences don’t work out, IVC is a sister school to UCI, which is my second choice.

Heron Contreras Edwards, University High School

Major: biological sciences

Why this school? The school is in state and I want the option to transfer to other universities.

Stephanie Cruz, Laguna Hills High School

Major: undecided; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? Community college offered a lot of options for a more affordable price.

Nick Deverian, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: film studies

Why this school? Good transferring ability to get into a different school like Chapman University.

How have the arts influenced you? Photography has shifted me in the direction of film and film production. I initially wanted to be in finance, but my passion for movies made me change my major. Without AP Art, I may not have changed my major because I think that photography made me realize my actual passion for art.

Isabella Diaz-Anderson, Laguna Beach High School

Major: physics

Why this school? I decided to attend community college and then later transfer to a four-year for financial reasons.

How have the arts influenced you? I want to continue art as something more personal and not something that is refined by an institution. My passion for physics and the universe has been something I have wanted to pursue for a long time now.

Samuel Giles, University High School

Major: digital media arts, $

Why this school? Financial issues.

Indi Ho, Beckman High School

Major: digital media arts, undeclared

Why this school? To create a well-developed portfolio as I further widen my understandings of different mediums, techniques and forms of expressions. I hope to transfer into an art college and go into product/industrial design.

Ziyah Jordan, Costa Mesa High School

Major: creative writing, undeclared

Why this school? To figure out what I am truly passionate about.

Leili Kamali, University High School

Major: undecided, $

Why this school? I decided to go to a community college instead of a four-year university in order to save some time and have time to find out about what path I’m eventually going to pursue.

How have the arts influenced you? I wanted to major in something that encompasses math, art and science. I think biomedical engineering is the best choice for me, because engineers have to take graphic design courses along with engineering courses, which I think makes it related to art as well as general science and math.

Emma Larson, El Toro High School

Major: interactive media arts

Why this school? I wanted to do my general education classes before going to a four-year college.

How have the arts influenced you? I want to get better at art so I can make my own video games.

What else? I plan to eventually transfer to UCI as they are the only college with my major.

Kai Lattmous, Beckman High School

Major: digital media arts

Why this school? To get my general education finished with before I transfer into a full-time art school.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have given me a pathway to success in my life. The arts have shown me what it truly is to be yourself.

Zuleyma Leon-Castro, Laguna Hills High School

Major: biology; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? I ultimately committed to it because it offers various programs that I have been interested in. I also fell in love with the campus itself.

What else? That I will be going to community college for two years then transferring to a four-year institution that is most likely UC San Diego.

Sidnye Nguyen, Beckman High School

Major: digital media arts; Minor: studio arts

Why this school? I committed to this school, because it was near me and my parents could afford it.

What else? I hope to later transfer out of IVC and into Laguna College of Art and Design.

Mayra Ponce, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: pre-nursing

Varun Puri, Beckman High School

Major: engineering, undeclared

Why this school? I’m trying to save up for college.

David Rojas, Saddleback High School

Major: kinesiology

Why this school? I want to continue playing baseball and continuing my learning.

Bita Rostami, University High School

Major: health and nutrition; Minor: visual arts

Why this school? Financial problems.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have given me a much keener eye and have enabled me to be able to create a brand for my potential future business.

Amy Santa Maria, University High School

Major: digital media arts

Why this school? Financial reasons.

Gisselle Serrato, Santa Ana High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? The campus is really nice.

Hayley Simko, Costa Mesa High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To complete my general education.

How have the arts influenced you? I really enjoy visual arts and I also enjoy watching crime shows. I want to major in something that both involves visual arts a little bit and crime, too. I did my research and found that when you are a crime scene investigator, you sketch crime scenes and victims – you obviously are involved in crime.

Amber Underwood, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: visual arts, undeclared, $

Why this school? It’s close to home.

What else? I thrive in the arts more than anything else and I want to find a way to put it into good use.

Kenna Uyesugi, University High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To save money and be around to help my family.

How have the arts influenced you? Although I am currently undeclared, I still plan to be involved with the arts. Whether it’s interior design, graphic design or a major I have yet to explore, art is indefinitely something I cannot live without.

What else? After I decide my major in the next couple years, I hope to be transferring to a four-year college. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for me!

Amir Zekria, University High School

Major: visual arts

Why this school? My financial situation.

How have the arts influenced you? Basically, it’s what I love doing and what I hope to do for the rest of my life.

LAGUNA COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

Brendan Carpio, Segerstrom High School

Major: game art, $

Why this school? I love its game art bachelor program, and Blizzard, a game company, directly hires from their school.

How have the arts influenced you? I enjoy art and love nearly every aspect of it. I’d rather be doing something art related than a soul-sucking desk job.

Chiara Ghidoli, Laguna Hills High School

Major: drawing and painting, $

Why this school? This school provides the small environment and traditional art teaching that I want from a private art school.

Katie Kim, Beckman High School

Major: game art, $

Why this school? It has a game art major and is known to be a top five school for game art classes. Also it’s  also local and has good reputation such as being connected with a lot of companies because California is the hub for game companies.

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve always been into art since I was a child, and I’ve always been into video games as well. Seeing that game art was a major available when I was a freshman got me inspired to get better and focus more on what it involves, studying the ways of the major and practicing more to improve.

Amy Smith, Brea Olinda High School

Major: game art

How have the arts influenced you? I’ve always wanted to do something that involved art and technology, preferably involving entertainment, and art classes have helped me to realize my strengths in technical drawing and creativity.

Emma Timmons, San Clemente High School

Major: game art (3D character), $

Why this school? It has been my dream school since fifth grade.

LONG BEACH CITY COLLEGE

Luis Mondragon, Valley Vista High School

Major: undecided; Minor: business administration, undeclared

LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY, Los Angeles

Caroline Chavos, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: business administration, $

MARYLAND INSTITUTE COLLEGE OF ART, Baltimore

Naomi Efron, University High School

Major: graphic design, $

Why this school? This school provides me endless opportunities as an artist.

MORNINGSIDE COLLEGE, Sioux City, IA

Leandra Estupinian, Santa Ana High School

Major: biology, undeclared; Minor: art, undeclared, $

Why this school? I got a scholarship there. I wanted a change of scenery.

How have the arts influenced you? When I first started to draw, I used to draw different animals like cheetahs, elephants, birds and snakes. By drawing these animals, I got interested in biology and wanted to be an animal biologist. By drawing, I was able to study the functions and appearances of animals.

MOUNT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE, Walnut

Kandiss Atencio, Yorba Linda High School

Major: nursing; Minor: business administration

Why this school? It’s close to home.

NORCO COLLEGE, Corona

Joshua Campos, Katella High School

Major: studio arts

NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY, Boston

Sae Young Sarah Chang, Northwood High School

Major: communication studies, $

Why this school? It has a good art and internship program.

Carly Hodes, Laguna Beach High School

Major: studio art, undeclared

Why this school? They have a strong digital arts program.

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY, Flagstaff

Marisa Dinette, Laguna Hills High School

Major: photography; Minor: business, undeclared, $

Why this school? The campus itself and it has the major I’m interested in.

Jade Luther, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: exercise science

Why this school? I enjoyed the environment and it has the major and degree I want to go into.

Allyson Suda, El Dorado High School

Major: social and behavioral science

Why this school? The school has a very good photography program as well as behavioral science. It also is in a beautiful area near the mountains.

How have the arts influenced you? Photography gives me a creative outlet and has taught me how to think fast on my feet to come up with creative solutions. Later in life, I want to work with special-needs students and that type of creative thinking is going to help me a lot.

NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY, Nampa, ID

Aissa Sundstrom, El Dorado High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? The soccer and nursing program.

NORWICH UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS, Norwich, UK

Kyra Vergho, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: game arts and design, $

Why this school? NUA has a very dynamic game arts and design program with very strong connections with the video game industry, which is crucial in that field. I will also be able to get my degree in just three years.

How have the arts influenced you? I have studied four years of digital media classes at OCSA, making use of my previous nine years of drawing and painting classes, focusing my last several years in 3D game design.

What else? I will be working this summer teaching painting classes to kids ages 4 through 13 at Cindy Seyler’s studio Arts Lessons by Cindy in Lake Forest.

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, Stillwater

Nicholas Pash, Ocean View High School

Major: aerospace administration and operations (professional pilot)

Why this school? I want to study aviation, loved the campus and connected with the staff.

ORANGE COAST COLLEGE

Cindy Aguayo, Valley High School

Major: computer science, undeclared

Why this school? I am still undecided for what I want to do. I want to seek help for my future.

David Arreaga, Ocean View High School

Major: art, undeclared

What else? I want to be a concept artist.

Vanessa Avalos, Segerstrom High School

Major: psychology, $

Why this school? I want to transfer.

Michael Blanco, Yorba Linda High School

Major: professional mariner, $

Why this school? For their school of seamanship.

Jessica Brito, Ocean View High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It has good programs and better transfer rates.

Kristina Camberos, Edison High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s close to home and has a good childhood development program.

What else? I want to explore different things so I can decide what kind of careers are out there for things like drawing, writing, singing and working with small children.

Remi Chicoine, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I can finish my general ed before deciding to spend money on a university.

Amber Clifton, Fountain Valley High School

Major: narrative illustration, undeclared; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? It is close and financially suitable.

What else? I want to become a game designer or a graphic designer for the entertainment industry.

Kyle Cu, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

John Dang, Fountain Valley High School

Major: business administration, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close to home and cheap.

Vincent Du, Fountain Valley High School

Major: computer science

Seth Dubois, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: business administration, undeclared; Minor: professional mariner, undeclared

Karen Farias, Santa Ana High School

Major: art

Wendy Guillen, Ocean View High School

Major: architectural technology, $

Becky Lee, La Quinta High School

Major: computer graphics, undeclared

Why this school? My GPA is low so I can’t go to UCs or Cal States.

Jenna Lieu, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biological science

Why this school? I need to save money.

What else? If I don’t enjoy being a biology major, I’ll switch to graphic design.

Joseph Liu, Fountain Valley High School

Major: adapted kinesiology

Why this school? Because I don’t know what I want to do for my major.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have taught me that if there is anything that I am going to do in the future, it is going to be something that I enjoy. Even though my major is not relating to the arts, I will definitely continue to work on different art projects.

Jennifer Lopez, Ocean View High School

Major: digital media arts and design, undeclared

Why this school? When I visited this college I really liked their campus and they have the programs I want to take.

How have the arts influenced you? I realized I wanted to continue art during my senior year. I am a creative person and I always want to create something new. In college, I want to do something I find fun – which is art.

Andrew Martinez, Ocean View High School

Major: respiratory care; Minor: kinesiology and athletics, undeclared, $

Why this school? They have the classes I need to pursue my career.

Sandra Molina, Segerstrom High School

Major: digital media arts and design, undeclared

What else? I plan to transfer to Laguna College of Art and Design.

Marissa Munoz, Segerstrom High School

Major: sociology

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Nathan Nagumo, Fountain Valley High School

Major: art, undeclared

Why this school? I am not quite sure of what I want to do later in life

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have greatly influenced what I want to do. I want to either teach it or hone my own skills in an art profession.

Shayla Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: chemistry

Why this school? It will help me transfer into a four-year for less than the amount of regular tuition.

Ngoc Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: business administration, $

Bryce Nozaki, Fountain Valley High School

Major: digital media arts and design, undeclared

Why this school? To try to get my general education finished and to try to fully figure out which major I want to stick with.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have informed me more about the field of graphic design on what clients may be looking for when requesting work, the process that may take place when trying to make the work and what the software that may be used in graphic design.

James Ooi, Fountain Valley High School

Major: computer science

Christina Pham, La Quinta High School

Major: business administration; Minor: film and video

Why this school? Their dance team.

Anika Prosser, University High School

Major: art

Why this school? It’s one of the community colleges near me and I chose to go to this one because I want to meet new people.

What else? I just want to be an artist and study art, maybe even become an art teacher.

Andre Reyes, Los Amigos High School

Major: art

Why this school? Because it is a good start for me to transfer out to a university of my choosing.

Taisei Sakaguchi, Fountain Valley High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Planning for the two-year transfer because it’s much more cheaper for me to do so.

What else? I really recommend people taking more ROP classes that they offer around the school of my district. It’s a really nice way to learn how the environment of normal workplace will be for the future.

Fernando Sanchez, Beckman High School

Major: digital media arts and design, and fashion, undeclared

Why this school? It had a good arts program and is closer to my location.

Sophia Tague, Segerstrom High School

Major: biological science, undeclared

Why this school? Financial issues.

What else? I enjoyed my art history class and would like to explore other classes like it.

Brendon To, Fountain Valley High School

Major: digital media arts and design

Why this school? Plan to go for two years to finish my general ed then transfer to art school.

How have the arts influenced you? Graphic design has always been fun for me and it is what I want to do in the future.

Borna Torabinejad, University High School

Major: architectural technology, undeclared

Why this school? Because of the good ratings.

What else? Art has always been an important factor in my life and that includes more than just visual art. I have decided that I want to have art in every second of my life with a taste of engineering.

Alfredo Valenzuela, Los Amigos High School

Major: undecided

Max Vangyi, La Quinta High School

Major: business administration, undeclared; Minor: chemistry, undeclared

Kayla Wirth, Fountain Valley High School

Major: art

How have the arts influenced you? Taking art classes in high school let me realize how much art means to me and that I want to continue it in the future.

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

Jack Derian, Brea Olinda High School

Major: environmental sciences, $

Why this school? Majors, and location.

Emily Olvera, Costa Mesa High School

Major: zoology; Minor: Italian, undeclared, $

Why this school? It is the perfect fit for me. Oregon State is far and has one of the best programs for my major. I visited and fell in love with the campus and the state’s natural beauty.

What else? I plan on taking a ceramics class as my elective for next year because I loved it so much at Costa Mesa High!

Emily Root, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: liberal studies, $

Why this school? They have an amazing liberal arts program, as well as academics in general. The student-to-teacher ratio is small so I am assured smaller classes. And the campus itself is beautiful. Their facilities were recently renovated as well.

OTIS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN, Los Angeles

Sang Joon Lee, Servite High School

Major: digital media, $

Why this school? Because Otis has a nice campus and programs.

Taylor Seo, Yorba Linda High School

Major: fine arts, $

Why this school? I like the location, and I believe that they provide programs that could help expand my art skills.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST COLLEGE OF ART, Portland, OR

Shea Meyerson, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: animated arts, $

Why this school? I applied to four schools and was very lucky to be accepted to three of them. Of the three, my top two choices were PNCA and the Laguna College of Art and Design. A lot of the artwork I saw on display when I toured greatly resembled my own. I felt like I fit in perfectly.

So then why would I choose PNCA? There are two main reasons: firstly, it is in Portland, Oregon. I absolutely fell in love with Portland when I toured PNCA this fall. It is a beautifully strange place, and furthermore I feel like it is far away enough from home that living in a dorm would be justified. I’ve been very sheltered growing up, which I am thankful for in many ways, but I also feel like this is my opportunity to finally go on a real adventure instead of just writing about imaginary ones all the time. The second reason is because I almost felt like I fit in too well at LCAD. Like I said earlier, a lot of the artwork that the other students produced was similar to my own. I could see myself going down a very comfortable linear path. I would improve, but my art style would probably remain mostly the same and I wouldn’t feel the need to experiment as much.

How have the arts influenced you? I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be an artist and a storyteller. I grew up being inspired (if not also a little obsessed) with movies and TV shows, particularly animated ones. I used these cartoons as inspiration for my own stories and characters. To some extent I still do. However, in order to achieve this dream I knew I needed training, so I went to my mom and asked her to teach me how to draw. She had wanted to be an artist when she was young, and she taught me the basics of drawing and painting. When I got a little older, I started taking art and writing classes, and improved in both. I also do a lot of art just on my own.

I consider myself to be mostly self-taught, even though I have had some formal training. Going to OCSA has given me the most art training I have ever gotten. It is crazy to compare my art from freshman year to my art now. I have learned so many new things and I feel like I am really coming into myself as an artist. I have an identifiable style and aesthetic that I feel really represents me. My art comes from a personal place, as I think most art does. It’s how I express myself. I do art and tell stories because I want to share my thoughts and feelings and ideas with others. I want to inspire little boys and girls, and possibly even adults just like the animators in my childhood inspired me. So yes, art has definitely influenced my plans for the future.

PACIFIC UNIVERSITY OREGON, Forest Grove, OR

Lilliann Meek, Buena Park High School

Major: environmental studies (sustainable design); Minor: Spanish and business administration, $

Why this school? I received an academic, athletic, art and a Spanish scholarship to attend this private liberal arts school that has a great environmental science program.

How have the arts influenced you? Growing up, I was not able to learn like other developing children in my class. I had severely suffered from bullying by both teachers and students. But, I had one teacher who was my resource specialist teacher who taught me speech and other subjects due to my speech impediment and learning disabilities. I was often shy and the only way for me to learn was through drawing and or pictures. Then and there, we drew and made art in class to enhance my ability to learn in the classroom. Soon enough, when I hit junior high, I was surpassing other students in the classroom and became more advanced than those students because of my ability to see the world in an art form.

Freshman year, I only took one regular art class and told my teacher who wanted me in her AP art class that I would do art again senior year. Ultimately, she did not believe me until I took not one, not two, but three AP art exams (with one I decided to do at the semester.) Since then, I have applied for scholarships and received art scholarships and won art competitions. If it was not for art, I would have never been able to be outgoing and so involved in school that allowed to to gain state recognition, become the top 14 percent at my school and gain scholarships to continue my education at the next level.

With this, I plan to major in art and open up my own studio next to Huntington Beach and teach ceramics for people of all ages. Then with the art that we make, we will sell them and donate the money to organizations that help those with disabilities. Because even though my disability was not visible I had to learn to overcome it, and with art, it taught me to never doubt myself, it taught me to exceed my limit because I am limitless.

What else? I plan to intern with a viniculture (wine making) farm and a veggie farm in Forest Grove so I can compete with the Future Farmers of America. I also plan to prepare myself and to run for state office so I can serve the FFA members for one full year. In the summer, I plan to return to my job as an agriculture teacher at the Boys and Girls Club teaching the children about nutrition and agricultural gardening.

PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN, New York

Heqing Huang, Pacific Academy

Major: fashion design, $

Why this school? It’s my dream school.

Jiwoo Lee, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: communication design, $

PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY

Jacqueline LeCourt, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: art and integrated marketing communication, $

Why this school? I love everything Pepperdine has to offer within the arts. It is similar to the arts program at my high school, and I had an amazing experience at Santa Margarita.

What else? I have always wanted to use my creativeness within my everyday job, so i thought that double major in marketing and art would would be a great option!

Madison Menefee, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: biology

Why this school? I see myself further developing my character and intellect at Pepperdine.

POINT LOMA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY, San Diego

Grant Hughes, Yorba Linda High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It is my dream.

Ray Khoury, El Dorado High School

Major: psychology, $

Why this school? It gives me the opportunity to be a part of a Christian community, while continuing my education.

POMONA COLLEGE, Claremont

Laura Kim, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: theater, $

Why this school? Strong academics and community.

How have the arts influenced you? Ever since I was 5, art was always a hobby that I enjoyed but as I continued to develop my skills at OCSA, I learned that it can be more than a simple hobby for myself.

Nighttime was something scary for me as a child as it left me vulnerable to whatever lurking in my room; and so I still keep a nightlight on while I sleep. This illumination had the power to change what I had thought of as silhouettes of night monsters into individual subjects of my room. As I became interested in the effects that light had beyond relieving my nighttime fears, I turned to watch the lighting in the musical “Mary Poppins.” I remember a scene with dolls coming to life in a dark room that truly hooked my attention. As the warm light shining on the children changed into a cold blue light trapping them in the room with the dolls, I was able to identify with the fear that they felt. This encounter and experience was what cultivated my passion to study theater design because I was able to realize the power that light had on opening perspectives. Light was something that made my scary and dark room bright; it was something that helped me be able to understand and empathize with the feelings the characters in the musical had.

PRATT INSTITUTE, Brooklyn

Jasmine Bryant, University High School

Major: fashion, $

Why this school? It has the best program and location to lead me towards the career I want to pursue.

RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE, Troy, NY

Merry Chu, University High School

Major: architecture, $

Why this school? They have a very beautiful campus, many great dining halls and the top architecture program in this country.

How have the arts influenced you? I was obsessed with buildings and structures since middle school, and I want to learn some skills about the computer generated art and design before going to college, so I thought graphic design classes would  widen my perspective. Art and design was not the first reason I chose my major, but it definitely became my favorite, and I wish I could continue pursuing art in the future to explore more about this world.

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN, Providence

Jaehee Cheong, Northwood High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? My art teachers went to this school, and I’ve heard a lot about it.

How have the arts influenced you? It’s the way to express myself and communicate my ideas to people. I feel like it proves my existence.

Ji Yoon Hwang, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: painting, $

Why this school? I want to become an artist, and I believe RISD’s outstanding program and environment will help me become an amazing artist.

How have the arts influenced you? Art has been my way of communicating ever since I was little because when I immigrated to the United States as a child, I was not fluent in English or Korean. Because I love art and am very passionate about it, I am attending RISD, an art college, next year. By painting, I want to make more artworks that will help me communicate with my audience.

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN, Sarasota, FL

James Rausch, Brea Olinda High School

Major: film, undeclared

RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE

Konner Smith, Orange County School of the Arts

Major: nursing; Minor: art

Why this school? I have health conditions that limit my ability to travel and I am currently needing to stay close to home. The TAG (transfer admission guarantee) program in the UC system allows me to go to RCC for two years and then finish at a UC school.

How have the arts influenced you? My art allows me to express my feelings as well as educate people on important issues like mental illness, which is very important to me. I hope to continue to address important issues in the future in a way that can be shared beautifully through art.

SACRAMENTO STATE UNIVERSITY

Marina Olney, University High School

Major: English

How have the arts influenced you? They have given me a more worldly view.

SADDLEBACK COLLEGE

Yohali Bahena, Laguna Hills High School

Major: illustration/animation, $

Why this school? It’s cheap and all my friends are going. Plus, my teachers recommended me to go there and it’s the only school I know that’s not too pricey.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have inspired me to unlock something that I’m truly good at and passionate about, which is drawing pastries and desserts.

Mason Barns, San Juan Hills High School

Major: computer science, undeclared

Why this school? I’m doing my AA at a community college and transferring, because it is cheaper.

Gina Berezin, Trabuco Hills High School

Major: nursing, undeclared; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? They have a good nursing program.

Bonnie Bush, Laguna Hills High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To save money.

Ashley Rose Cabral, Trabuco Hills High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? They have a good nursing program.

Karla Guerrero, Laguna Hills High School

Major: medical assistant; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close and it’s cheaper than the UCs and Cal States.

Shayden Hendrickson, Laguna Hills High School

Major: engineering

Michelle Huerta, Laguna Hills High School

Major: computer science, undeclared; Minor: computer graphics, undeclared

Michaela Lynch, Trabuco Hills High School

Major: art, undeclared

Why this school? It is nearby and has the best pricing options for me at the moment.

How have the arts influenced you? Being in color guard has given me a perspective on a new form of art that many do not get to experience. It has inspired me to continue learning more about other forms of art such as painting and drawing.

Elizabeth Martinez, Laguna Hills High School

Major: nursing, undeclared

Anthony Medina, University High School

Major: nursing

Why this school? Because I want to focus on my career of becoming a registered nurse.

Anahita Mirza Hesabi, Laguna Hills High School

Major: computer science

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Jaylee Morse, University High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I’m not sure what field I want to go into yet.

What else? No matter what I do, I want to minor in photography because it had a huge impact on my high school experience.

Fiona Nieto-Simons, University High School

Major: foods and nutrition; Minor: photography, undeclared

Why this school? It is a more practical option being as I have to pay for school myself, and the campus is bigger than IVC.

Ramses Osorio, Laguna Hills High School

Major: fashion design; Minor: illustration/animation, undeclared

Why this school? I am planing to go there for two years and then transfer to a fashion school in New York.

Ciarra Radicia, Laguna Hills High School

Major: undecided; Minor: photography

Why this school? The location.

Julia Shkolnik, Laguna Hills High School

Major: undecided; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? To save money and to figure out what I want to do as a career.

What else? I’m planning on only working in the summer to save up for the school year. I am going to continue art as a hobby

SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

Grace Han, Irvine High School

Major: communication

Richard Montes, Fountain Valley High School

Major: psychology

SAN FRANCISCO STATE UNIVERSITY

Maximilian DeNembo, Fountain Valley High School

Major: visual communication design, undeclared; Minor: marketing, undeclared, $

Why this school? It has the program that I want and I love the location that the school is at.

How have the arts influenced you? Visual arts is something I have loved to do since middle school, but as I entered high school, I realized how much I enjoy graphic design. When I was looking for colleges, I realized that graphic design was the perfect fit for me. It includes art but also provides a more substantial income than a freelancer or cartoonist.

Cynthia Gonzalez, El Modena High School

Major: child and adolescent development, $

Kayo Kizaki, Magnolia High School

Major: journalism (photojournalism), undeclared, $

Why this school? The art program is good, and I want to be surrounded by talented students, giving me experience and an environment in which I can grow.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have inspired me to not only continue to be hopeful for the future, but also became somewhat of a coping skill for me during my depression. Because of this, my passion for photography grew and became what I want to study

Nikolai Kolacz, Valencia High School

Major: international relations, $

Trevor Sonoda, Fountain Valley High School

Major: journalism, $

Why this school? It is in the city, which is where I want to be, and it has a good program for the major that interests me.

How have the arts influenced you? I really enjoy arts, especially photography and Photoshop, so I think taking art classes have helped me realize and develop which direction I will go in the field of journalism.

Clarissa Stay, Fountain Valley High School

Major: broadcast and electronic communication arts

Why this school? I like the atmosphere of the school.

SANTA ANA COLLEGE

Naomi Andrade, Segerstrom High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Financial problems do not allow me to attend a university.

Tayden Beltran, Ocean View High School

Major: fire technology

Victor Bermudez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided, $

Why this school? Because I am not sure what I want to do yet.

Britt Boster, El Dorado High School

Major: child development

Samantha Bravo, Saddleback High School

Major: fashion design and merchandising, and wildlife vet, undeclared

Why this school? For the free year.

Stephany Chavez, Valley High School

Major: kinesiology

Why this school? I committed to this school because I will have free tuition the first year and I will get my general education done here.

Jose Chimal, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: child development and education studies

Why this school? It’s affordable at the moment.

Steven Cuatenango, La Quinta High School

Major: computer science

Jesus Diaz DeLeon, Santa Ana High School

Major: art, undeclared; Minor: political science, undeclared, $

Why this school? I ultimately committed to this school because of the opportunities and financial aid given to students.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts has taught me and challenged me to take creative approaches and make relationships with people through teamwork. Theater and visual arts enhanced my passion on pursuing careers involving the arts.

Daisy Garcia, Santa Ana High School

Major: psychology, undeclared; Minor: art, undeclared, $

Why this school? Because I want to take different classes to discover what I want to do.

Lisa Garcia, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Because I don’t want to go far.

Adrian Geronimo, Valley High School

Major: fire technology, $

Why this school? I committed because I want to attend the fire academy and pursue a career as a firefighter.

Mairani Guadalupe, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: medical assistant; Minor: criminal justice, undeclared, $

Why this school? I committed to this school because it has a lot of opportunities for me. They help you achieve your goals and they are always there to provide you with any information you need.

Marisabel Gutierrez, Santa Ana High School

Major: nursing, undeclared; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? I live nearby.

How have the arts influenced you? Taking an art class has inspired me to be more adventurous and creative.

Erin Heitman, Los Amigos High School

Major: art, undeclared; Minor: music, undeclared, $

Why this school? The school is close and has a low price

How have the arts influenced you? I will get exposed to different forms of art and different job opportunities that involve the arts.

Frances Hernandez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: biology; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? To finish my general education and waiting for my appeal to UCI.

Brianne Jimenez, Katella High School

Major: nursing

Why this school? It has a good nursing program.

Angel Martinez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: engineering, undeclared; Minor: French, undeclared, $

Why this school? It is cheap.

Bitia Martinez, Santa Ana High School

Major: nursing; Minor: biology

Why this school? Good foundation for my nurse training.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have taught me to always be neat with my work and to push myself forward to what I decide to commit myself to. I must always finish what I start.

Natalie Martinez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: art, undeclared; Minor: theater arts, undeclared

Why this school? Free tuition.

What else? I love theater and I will also like to do special effects makeup for monsters and creatures. Maybe I’ll work for Knott’s or Disney in technical theater.

Jose Miranda, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: criminal justice, undeclared, $

Why this school? The free year.

Christian Morales, Santa Ana High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s close by.

How have the arts influenced you? It has helped me solve problems in a more creative manner.

Victoria Oaxaca, Santa Ana High School

Major: psychology; Minor: fashion design

Why this school? Don’t have enough money for a university.

Anthony Perez, Valley High School

Major: fire technology

Cristal Perez, Santa Ana High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It is closest to where I live.

Luz Maria Perez, Santa Ana High School

Major: biology; Minor: child development and education studies

Why this school? I heard there is a good nursing program and it is close to where I live.

Stephania Perez, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: child development and education studies, undeclared

Alfonso Reyes, Saddleback High School

Major: automotive, undeclared

Why this school? Free tuition.

Xochilt Rocha, Los Amigos High School

Major: undecided; Minor: art, undeclared

Why this school? In order to save money

What else? I am still not sure on what I want to major in but I do know that I want to continue learning and pursuing art.

Brandon Roman, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: art; Minor: mural painting

Rafael Salgado, Century High School

Major: mathematics

Why this school? Mainly because I can afford it. It is also not far from home.

How have the arts influenced you? Art will help me with my creativity when I’m teaching math. I can find a way to teach math for fun with the students.

Daniela Sandoval, Santa Ana High School

Major: law, undeclared; Minor: criminal justice, undeclared

Miguel Santana, Santa Ana High School

Major: art, undeclared; Minor: automotive technology

Walter Santana, Los Amigos High School

Major: architecture; Minor: psychology, undeclared

Why this school? Grades.

Eliseo Santiago, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? So I can stay close to my family

Cynthia Sarabia, Santa Ana High School

Major: nursing

Why this school? I have an advantage – my first year is free.

Ritchie Serafin, Century High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? It’s very local from where I live and simply makes it easier for me to commute.

Aldair Urquiza, Saddleback High School

Major: art

Why this school? All other colleges rejected me.

Miguel Verduzco, Saddleback High School

Major: graphic design, undeclared

Why this school? It is local.

Roberto Zarate, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: computer science, undeclared, $

Why this school? It is not a long drive away

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

Eduardo Cervantes, La Quinta High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To get a better job

Erick Perez, Garden Grove High School

Major: film production

Why this school? I was fond of the programs they had to offer, however, I’m a lot more excited about what I plan to do afterwards.

What else? I have a couple projects that I’m working on over the summer and onto next year, so I’m excited to get them all finished.

SANTIAGO CANYON COLLEGE

Brooke Ashley, Yorba Linda High School

Major: art, $

Why this school? To finish my general education before transferring to a university.

Conor Briscoe, Yorba Linda High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? Its close by and I plan to transfer to Cal State Fullerton.

Michael Cruz, Yorba Linda High School

Major: biology; Minor: psychology

Why this school? It has a good biology program.

Jesse Garcia, Yorba Linda High School

Major: business, undeclared

Why this school? It is convenient.

Ally Guerrero, Century High School

Major: criminal justice

Holly Hao, Yorba Linda High School

Major: art; Minor: business

What else? I am going to work a lot for my art school’s tuition.

Jackqueline Munoz, El Dorado High School

Major: nursing

Why this school? I wanted to get my general education done at a community college.

How have the arts influenced you? They have helped me see the beauty in everything. Even life’s craziest moments are beautiful. That’s why I can’t wait to become a labor and delivery nurse. I can’t wait to help someone through one life’s most beautiful moments.

Emily Rodriguez, El Modena High School

Major: art, undeclared; Minor: graphic design, undeclared

Why this school? To save money.

How have the arts influenced you? Yearbook has introduced me into designing and organizing pages while creating a steady flow of transitions into each subject. I’ve also had photo 1 and art 1 and they have improved my knowledge of digital and traditional art.

Ramiro Solis, Katella High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? The programs it offers.

Emmanuel Trujillo, Katella High School

Major: undecided; Minor: marketing

Why this school? Smaller classes and it’s local.

Emani Vonborstel, Beckman High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? To get my general education done.

SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

Hyunsoo Lisa Kim, Northwood High School

Major: fine arts in studio, $

Why this school? I have friends who are currently students at SAIC and I have seen the fun projects and their growth as in artist.

How have the arts influenced you? Having been involved in both inside and outside of school art classes, I have learned to overcome my weakness, expressing my ideas and thoughts. Now, I create works as a tool to express and connect with the world.

Ze Zhou, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: fine arts in studio, $

Why this school? Because they do not have requirements in my major, which means I’m free to study what I believed is important to me in art.

How have the arts influenced you? I want to become an artist in general. As my study in art is growing stronger and stronger, I start to realized that some of my opinions of art are wrong. Art is something more than a pretty picture or a lovely song. The feelings, responses we get from people or from yourself is the most important. It’s a looking back to our own mind. By becoming an artist, I hope I can do something good to people.

SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS, New York

Rachel Li, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: illustration

Why this school? I think that school can teach me a lot.

SEATTLE UNIVERSITY

Vittoria Anderson, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Major: mechanical engineering, $

Why this school? Great community, program and location.

SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

McKenna Amann, Laguna Hills High School

Major: criminology and criminal justice; Minor: business administration

SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY, Collegedale, TN

Eunice Lee, Yorba Linda High School

Major: nursing, $

Why this school? It’s a religious, nice school.

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY, Dallas

Jack Davis, JSerra Catholic High School

Major: art, $

Why this school? To attend the Meadows School of the Arts.

Taylor Knight, University High School

Major: journalism; Minor: art , $

Why this school? I have family in Texas and SMU has strong journalism and art programs.

How have the arts influenced you? I intend to minor in art, and regardless of my career choices, art will play an important role in my life.

What else? I am considering joining the Peace Corps.

SOUTHERN UTAH UNIVERSITY, Cedar City

Morgan Alfaro, El Dorado High School

Major: athletic training

STATE FAIR COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Sedalia, MO

Alissa Gonzalez, Saddleback High School

Major: undecided

Why this school? I’m moving near the school.

What else? Art is a outlet of what I want to show the world. I want to use art in my line of study somehow to best show who I am.

STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK COLLEGE AT ONEONTA

Yaritza Cisneros-Guinto, Santa Ana High School

Major: fashion and textiles, $

Why this school? They have a great fashion program and for the major I chose, it is three years on the main campus and then the last year is in Manhattan.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have influenced my study in fashion in that art an is a major influence in my garments. Art has always been a major part of my life and I always knew that I wanted to do something in the arts.

STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY, Stony Brook, NY

Caitlyn Shimizu, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biology, $

Why this school? They have a great science program since I will be a biology major, and they offer a pre-vet track. They also provide extensive undergraduate research and study-abroad opportunities. Also, it is exciting to be just outside of New York City and I’m looking forward to the change in scenery and weather.

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE, Fort Worth, TX

Andrew Davis, Valencia High School

Major: radio, television and film, undeclared

Why this school? I like Texas, and it’s where I want to move permanently.

THE AIR FORCE

Steven Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

THE KING’S COLLEGE, New York

Sierra Holloway, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: journalism, culture, and society, undeclared, $

Why this school? The location and financial aid.

THE MARINE CORPS

Gabriel Alvarez, Katella High School

Area: aviation mechanic

What else? After I finish in the military, I want to go back to help my school’s music program bloom.

TULANE UNIVERSITY, New Orleans

Kendyl Brennan, Laguna Beach High School

Major: marketing, undeclared; Minor: studio art, undeclared, $

Why this school? I committed during my junior year to play beach volleyball there.

How have the arts influenced you? After taking art all four years at the high school, I have decided that I want to continue it throughout college and hopefully incorporate it into a future career. I plan to major in marketing and minor in fine art so that I will know how to promote and sell my own artwork.

What else? Not only have I registered to take a drawing class, but also a sculpting class during my freshman year in college.

UC BERKELEY

Gustavo Aguilar Ramos, Katella High School

Major: business

Why this school? It’s my dream school.

What else? I decided to take photography this year because I never had room in my schedule. I would’ve liked to have gone to the next level my school offers but I never had room to do it earlier.

Cara Kim, Northwood High School

Major: architecture

Why this school? It has been my goal to go to Berkeley for several years now.

How have the arts influenced you? My love for drawing, design and art history influenced my choice to study architecture.

Nawal Seedat, El Modena High School

Major: molecular and cell biology (immunology and pathogenesis); Minor: public health, $

Why this school? They have the best program for my major and it is a research school.

Madison Strasmann, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: nutritional sciences, undeclared

Why this school? The minute I walked on campus it felt like home. The undergraduates were very welcoming and had a lot of school spirit.

UC IRVINE

Andy Chao, Katella High School

Major: computer science and engineering

Why this school? The school has great computer classes.

Alyssa Corea, El Toro High School

Major: art, undeclared

Why this school? It’s close to my friends and family, I am receiving financial aid, and I genuinely like the school campus.

What else? Since I enjoy art, drawing and painting so much, I am considering finding a career that relates to art in some way. I’m still unsure of exactly what I plan to study, but art will have influence over my final decision.

Amogha Dahal, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biological sciences

Why this school? Proximity and their honors program.

Jessica Garcia, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: computer game science, undeclared, $

Why this school? The financial aid given was the best and it is close to home.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have shown me that what I would like to do in the future should include the arts because I enjoy them.

What else? I am going to live on campus for the experience

Karen Garcia, Santa Ana High School

Major: art

Why this school? The financial aid.

What else? I love art and I’d like to keep doing it for as long as I can. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of having a career in.

Kevin Kathrotia, Valencia High School

Major: mechanical engineering

Why this school? It has a good engineering program

Gianna Nguyen, El Toro High School

Major: computer science

Why this school? It’s close to home.

Henry Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: biochemistry and molecular biology

Why this school? UCI is very close to my home. I want to stay close to my family and save on housing fees.

What else? Even though I’m not taking any dedicated arts studies, I will be studying art, particularly animation, all throughout my free time during college. I don’t think I’ll ever stop making art.

Kaylee Nguyen, Yorba Linda High School

Major: biological sciences, undeclared, $

Why this school? The school is close to where I live and has a medical center for post-graduates.

Marvis Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: computer engineering

Why this school? It was the UC I wanted to go to.

Lu Niu, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: public health, undeclared

Why this school? Because I like Irvine.

Anthony Pham, Fountain Valley High School

Mjor: pharmaceutical science, $

Why this school? It is close by and is very reputable.

Michelle Trinh, Beckman High School

Major: biological sciences

Why this school? This school is near my place of residence and also has a focus on biology, my chosen major.

What else? Even with taking biology as a major, I want to continue doing art, whether that be through taking additional graphic design classes or personal study and work put into pursuing art as a hobby.

Amber Truong, Fountain Valley High School

Major: engineering; Minor: digital art, undeclared

Why this school? It’s near home and has good programs.

How have the arts influenced you? The arts made me realize that I want to go into a major that allows me to be creative and innovative.

Emily Valenciano, Yorba Linda High School

Major: music and biological sciences; Minor: Japanese language and literature, undeclared, $

Why this school? It has a great undergraduate medical program that will help me get into a good medical school.

How have the arts influenced you? I have been writing music since I was a child, and being in orchestra has really allowed me exposure to the process of orchestration and the beauty of music. Therefore, I plan to study composition in college. Also, photography has influenced me by challenging me to think about what the best composition is to capture a perfect moment in time to tell a story.

UC MERCED

Jose Morales, Godinez Fundamental High School

Major: global art studies; Minor: physics

Why this school? This school offered good financial aid and will give me a different experience because of its location.

How have the arts influenced you? I have always wanted to have a career related to art, specifically animation. Taking art classes mostly influenced me because I liked the classes and it made me sure that I wanted to continue doing what I learned in class for a living.

Julie Vang, Los Amigos High School

Major: psychology; Minor: arts

Why this school? I’d like to experience living in a more natural environment since I was born in Santa Ana, a really impacted and industrial area.

UC RIVERSIDE

Samuel Truong, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biology, undeclared

Why this school? This school has resources that I am very interested in and plan on utilizing!

How have the arts influenced you? I truly do love the arts! I have performed in marching band for 3 1/2 years and took 3D art my senior year. I have considered majoring in architecture, but I realized that I love working working and communicating with people. I hope to pursue a field or career in health sciences.

Emily Vi, Fountain Valley High School

Major: psychology

Why this school? I like the campus.

UC SAN DIEGO

Blair Caccam, Yorba Linda High School

Major: nanoengineering

Why this school? It has a good medical program.

Sarah Klein, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: bioengineering; Minor: visual arts, undeclared

How have the arts influenced you? I have learned a lot of design aspects from art that will be useful for bioengineering, designing products. The creativity that I learned will be beneficial in the future.

Samuel Le, Fountain Valley High School

Major: chemistry, undeclared, $

Why this school? There are many interesting programs.

Lillian Nguyen, University High School

Major: interdisciplinary computing and the arts

Why this school? Because the cost is less than that of many major art schools.

How have the arts influenced you? I plan to become an artist in the future.

Nina Nguyen, La Quinta High School

Major: human biology, $

Why this school? This university offers a lot of opportunity to do research in labs. And the different cultures of each college within the university appealed to me.

What else? I am thinking about joining UCSD’s swim team. La Quinta High School girls’ swim team won league championships this year and I was also featured in the OC Register.

Benjamin Schmiesing, Fountain Valley High School

Major: bioengineering (biotechnology)

Why this school? I was accepted into their bioengineering program, which is one of the best in the nation, and I absolutely love the campus.

Madenn Walikis, University High School

Major: dance

Why this school? The school has the most opportunities available for me to pursue my passions!

How have the arts influenced you? The arts have influenced me greatly and have made me realize I wish to pursue a higher education that involves them. I am interested in dance as well as visual arts, and I hope to refine my skills in both areas and eventually teach others about these art forms and just how powerful they can be.

Jingzhao Wang, Crean Lutheran High School

Major: physical sciences, undeclared

Why this school? It’s a good school and their science majors are good.

UC SANTA BARBARA

Kimberly Echegoyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: biochemistry and molecular biology

Why this school? The school has a good biology department.

Irene Hsueh, Orange Lutheran High School

Major: financial mathematics and statistics

Calvin Nguyen, Fountain Valley High School

Major: economics, $

Why this school? The social scene is great and they have just as great of an academics program.