In the week leading up to Arlington ISD graduations June 3 and 4, we are celebrating the Class of 2021 valedictorian and salutatorian for all seven Arlington ISD high schools.
Name: Sydney Bunnag, Valedictorian
School: Lamar High School
College attending: University of Texas at Arlington
Intended major: Computer Science and Engineering
Attended Arlington ISD schools since: Kindergarten
What advice would you give students entering high school?
My advice to students entering high school is to be sure to do your work on time and stay motivated to improve, practice and work hard in school.
What was the most difficult lesson you’ve learned while in school?
The most difficult lesson I’ve learned in school is to work a little bit on your assignments each day before it is due. Procrastination is hard for me since I find staying motivated hard sometimes, but even if I just get started with a project a few days before it is due, I feel much better about the work I will turn in.
What’s the most meaningful moment you will take from this school year?
The most meaningful moment I will take from this school year is learning that I got a full scholarship to UTA. This school year has been tough on my motivation, but hearing that my hard work paid off made me feel more determined to make it through this year.
What makes you the proudest about experiencing your senior year in COVID-19?
I am proud to have been able to survive through the senioritis and the lack of in-person school and still be valedictorian. It made me realize that I can be disciplined enough to succeed and study on my own. I was worried that my lack of motivation would result in me losing my position that I had worked hard for during the last three years, but I learned to work harder and study more.
What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?
Ten years from now, I hope to have a job in some field of computer science. I hope to have my own home and be able to live comfortably. I want to be able to travel and reap the benefits of all the effort I’ve put in today.