iPrep Senior Reflections

By Denisse Carranza, Senior

The time has come. The Class of 2018 is finally reaching the end of our high school days. Although all of us are now heading down different paths, each one of us will always form part of the iPrep community. Below are some reflections from three graduating seniors.

What did you enjoy about your time at iPrep?
Natalie: I enjoyed spending time with my best friends and finding a community that I feel welcome. I also enjoyed taking challenging Advanced Placement (AP) classes such as AP English Language, AP English Literature, AP Psychology, and AP US History.
Melanie: What I’ve enjoyed the most during my time at iPrep is the internship opportunities. Currently, I intern at Miami Dade County’s Department of Cultural Affairs. Through the various opportunities, was able to explore different interests, which ultimately helped me decide I want to work professionally in the arts field.
Claudia: After entering iPrep in the 10th grade, I enjoyed surrounding myself with friends that supported me through these last three years.

What was your favorite moment as an iPrep student?
Natalie: My favorite moment is when Ms. Keller told me I needed to work on my grammar because I was terrible. This helped me realize my hidden potential for creative writing. Bless! Also, I enjoyed meeting Mr. De Lavalle for the first time before he left us for a better job.
Melanie: My favorite moment as an iPrep student was creating the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica and hosting the first Hispanic Heritage Celebration at iPrep.
Claudia: Since I enjoy athletics, my favorite moment at iPrep was when we had outdoor activities like Hoop It Up and Spike It Up.

What was the best advice you got from: parents, school faculty, or classmate(s)?
Natalie: You have mass, so you matter. -unknown Science teacher  
Melanie: “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” -Mr. de Lavalle
Claudia: “Surround yourself with people that lift you up, not those that try to tear you down.” -Mama Leticia

Did your experiences in iPrep influence your college decision?
Natalie: Yes, especially when I cofounded Model United Nations that helped me realize my potential  
Melanie: Yes. I decided to pursue my interests in writing and the arts.
Claudia: Yes! My internship at Jackson Memorial Hospital has helped to decide that I want to go into the medical field.

​