Valerie Juarez is a remarkable senior here at Sahuaro High School. She explained that this year is her favorite because she learned how to have a good balance between studying, work, and just life in general. With graduation just a bit over 3 months away, let’s take a tour, reminiscing on her high school career and her favorite memories here at Sahuaro. Valerie has made the most of her time at Sahuaro, getting involved in all kinds of extracurriculars including choir, theatre, swimming, and even book club. She is president of the choir currently, and last year she was vice president.  “What I love about theatre and choir is that it’s just me doing what I love. Especially for theatre – I’m not myself when I’m on stage, I’m playing a character. I just calm down,” Valerie shared. When she’s not busy with her variety of activities, she sings, paints, or reads.

Valerie’s time at Sahuaro High School has been nostalgic for her. For choir, it wasn’t just the music that made it special, it was also her peers. “I love concerts because everyone gets together,” she says with a smile. Similarly, “Theatre is like a little family.” She said that after every show, her fellow thespians would gather up in the back and exchange their appreciation and love for one another. “Same with swimming, I love everyone on the team,” she added. The last meet holds a very special place in Valerie’s heart as it was their last time chanting together.

Valerie is planning on going to either U of A or NAU; she wants to study elementary education and teach either third or fourth-graders. Since college is the next step in many students’ futures, it’s natural for them to be afraid. However, for Valerie, it’s more of a calm feeling than a paralyzing fear. When asked if she’s nervous about college, her response is refreshingly honest. “Nervous? Yeah. Scared? I don’t think I’m scared, but I’m nervous.” These simple words show her true mindset and how it’s both empowering and inspiring.

Valerie described leaving Sahuaro as bittersweet; she loves the people and teachers here. “So many teachers have been so helpful to me, so caring towards me. So many people I’m meeting and have met, I just love them and wish we had more time together,” she said. She has had an amazing time and she will miss everyone, but she’s excited to start a new chapter in her life. Wherever life takes her, Valerie will always be a Cougar.