In the week leading up to Arlington ISD graduations June 3 and 4 at AT&T Stadium, we are celebrating the Class of 2021 valedictorian and salutatorian for all seven Arlington ISD high schools.
Name: Kelly Pham, Valedictorian
School: Seguin High School
College attending: University of Texas at Arlington
Intended major: Medical Technology with a minor in Music
Attended Arlington ISD schools since: Pre-K
What advice would you give students entering high school?
Allow yourself to celebrate the little things! High school is pretty difficult, so be proud of yourself for all of your accomplishments, no matter how big or small you believe they are. There will be times where you may feel as if you’re constantly occupied with assignments and other commitments, but don’t forget to make time for yourself. High school may seem really fast-paced initially, but give yourself time to adjust, and don’t discredit yourself if you are not progressing at the same speed as others. Remind yourself that you are still just as capable.
What was the most difficult lesson you’ve learned while in school?
I’ve learned that it is okay to let yourself relax. We are typically held to a certain standard and are expected to constantly give 100%, but sometimes that’s just not possible. It took a while for me to realize that we simply are not built to continuously work and that our bodies deserve and need breaks, so relaxing is not something to be ashamed of.
What’s the most meaningful moment you will take from this school year?
The most meaningful moment for me was when I got to see what everyone had accomplished during my school’s Senior Awards Ceremony. Not being able to see many of my classmates this year made the moment I saw them dressed in their gowns a very special experience.
What makes you the proudest about experiencing your senior year in COVID-19?
The thing that makes me the proudest is the fact that engagement was still high this school year among my class and my school as a whole despite our current situation. This was a difficult year, but it was so admirable to see that COVID-19 did not break our spirit.
What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?
I see myself working as a nuclear medicine technologist and doing medical research to study the relationship between medicine and music.