Sophomore Derek Hsu laughs with members of the second-period Leadership class as they hang streamers in the gym for the much-anticipated Homecoming rally. They’ve only been working together for a few weeks, but they’re already a tight-knit community with a common goal of making the school experience the best it can be. 

For many students, high school is about dedicating themselves to activities they feel passionate about. Although each student takes a strikingly different path in high school, they all find a way to achieve their ideal vision of a high school experience.

Hsu has been involved in school Leadership for the past two years now, serving as class president as a freshman and vice president this year. He works on school events from Homecoming decorations to raising money for his class through popular boba sales. 

Hsu takes pride in his leadership role and in getting to know the inner workings of the school. 

“It’s really cool to be in a position to bridge the gap of communication between administrators and students,” Hsu said.

Hsu remembers getting involved in student leadership as early as fourth grade. He also acknowledges that part of the thrill of leadership is being elected by his peers and being in a position to delegate responsibility to others. He’s also enjoyed coming up with creative ideas that he can implement for the benefit of the school and his classmates.

“I’ve become friends with so many upperclassmen,” Hsu said. “Leadership has allowed me to get to work with a lot of new people. We’ve become like a marketing team that works together to pitch an idea.”

Clubs lead the way for senior

Senior Surbhi Bhat has also immersed herself in student government over the years, but she gets involved in leadership opportunities through clubs such as Indian Cultural Awareness Club, speech and debate, and drama club. She serves as an officer for ICAC. 

Bhat has been dancing for almost her entire life, and ICAC served as a great way for her to combine her love for dance and Indian culture. 

Bhat said participating in clubs has allowed her to meet a wide range of people. As she’s remained in the same clubs since she was a freshman, she’s made solid friendships that have lasted for several years.

“Being part so many clubs as well as an officer for ICAC has given me a chance to make real connections with people I wouldn’t have met otherwise,” Bhat said. “It’s the people that you find something in common with who end up being some of your best friends.”

Bhat also said that participating in clubs has allowed her to do even more than make new friends and hone her passion for performing. Being a leader in clubs has taught her valuable life lessons that she will apply beyond high school.

“I’ve learned that I’m not always going to get along with everyone, especially being in a leadership position in all the clubs I’m a part of,” Bhat said. “However, I’ve learned how to manage conflicts in order to not let an interaction hinder the work I’m planning to do.”

Despite the challenges that Bhat has had to overcome through ICAC, she has enjoyed the creative outlet and relief from academic pressure that the club has provided. 

Sports leads to connections

Sophomore Sherry Lin gets involved in school through swimming on the varsity team. 

“I swam at a competitive club for several years before coming to high school,” Lin said. “But my friends convinced me to participate in school sports, and I’m glad they did — it’s so much fun.”

For students attending a school like Saratoga High, the pressure to work hard in academics can be substantial. However, Lin said that swimming allows her to clear her head.

“Swimming at Saratoga has really helped me relieve stress,” Lin said. “While exercising, I forget about school and just focus on training hard.”

Since participating in any school sport is a big time commitment, Lin has also learned how to manage her time effectively. Additionally, the team aspect of the sport has greatly improved her communication skills.

“I’m so grateful for being part of Saratoga athletics,” Lin said. “I love getting to know people during practice, and I’ve learned so much.”