What does it mean to you to help your team make history by winning the first division title in school history? And what did it mean to you personally to be able to come back with such a strong season after missing your junior season with an injury? 

It has been an amazing 2023 season. The whole team came together to represent UC and played hard to clinch the division. Making history is icing on the cake.

What are your plans for the rest of this season? Are you planning to play in the state tournament?

I am looking forward to finishing the rest of the season and I do plan to play in the state tournament. 

You are obviously a very talented tennis player, so tell me when and how you first started playing tennis, and what you love the most about playing tennis?

My dad introduced me to tennis when I was 9 years old and there’s been no looking back since then. I love being on the court, competing in tournaments, and playing with friends. I have met many great people through this sport. It is a challenging sport – not only physically but mentally as well and I believe it has helped me become a stronger person.  

What have you loved the most about being on the tennis team at UC? 

I have enjoyed the opportunity to play on a team and connect with new people. 

What do you consider your greatest strengths as a tennis player? 

I consider my serve and my forehand to be the strongest parts of my game.

I know you play in lots of tournaments. What do you consider your biggest victories/moments of your tennis career so far?

Competing in tournaments outside of school, I have had my share of wins and losses. It is hard to pick one such match or moment; however, the most memorable matches have been those where I have beat an opponent who is ranked higher than me.

Besides tennis, what are some other things you are involved in at UC (clubs etc.)

I am the co-founder of the Juggling Club, which I started this school year with Kurtis Blouin. I am also part of the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. 

Can you explain how the balance between academics, and extracurricular activities has helped you become a better student, and how important it is to be involved in so many different things?

Between academics, tennis and other extra-curricular activities my days are packed to say the least. Juggling all of these have helped me in honing my time management skills – something that I believe I will need when I start college in a few months. While it is important to be involved in different activities, I think it is more important to find those which you truly enjoy and are passionate about. 

What did you love the most about being a student at Union Catholic?

The many opportunities that are made to students and meeting so many great people. 

Why and how did you decide that UC was the place for you to be? What was it about UC that made you want to be a student here?

My older sister (Manya) is a UC alumna. During her 4 years, I watched her learn and experience life through her courses, extra-curricular activities, and varsity sports. When it was my turn, UC was the natural choice as I already felt I was part of the UC family. 

What kind of advice would you give to younger students who are considering attending UC? Why should they come to UC and what will UC give them that they won’t be able to find at other schools?

My advice for incoming students is to take advantage of all UC has to offer. Join new clubs and take classes in various areas. This is the time to learn and experience new things. In my opinion, UC is a perfectly sized high school. Students are part of a strong community that promotes individuality and leadership.  

Tell me about your decision to attend Villanova. What was it about the school that made it a perfect fit for you and what are you planning to major in at Nova, and what type of career would you like to pursue?

I plan to attend the School of Business, majoring in finance. Because of its strong curriculum and school spirit, I feel it is the perfect fit for me.

How about with tennis - what are your biggest long-term goals? Is playing tennis in college something you’re planning on?

Tennis will continue to be part of my life and I do plan to pursue tennis in college.  

What is something about yourself that most people don’t know? Maybe a hidden talent or hobby?

My favorite hobby is traveling. I love experiencing new sights, cultures and cuisines all over the world. A hidden talent of mine is juggling.

Favorite thing to do in your spare time?

I enjoy listening to music, watching TV, working out and biking outdoors.

Favorite class and teacher at UC?

AP Calculus

Ms. Doherty 

Favorite UC Event?

Pep rallies 

Favorite UC Core Value and why?

Community, because I believe there is strength in diversity and we should value those individual differences such as culture and personality that make each of us unique.

Life Motto?

You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

One word to describe your UC experience?

Fulfilling 

Share one tip for members of UC’s Class of 2027?

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.