Kayla Costin is one of 27 valedictorians.
What college do you plan to attend? “University of Georgia”
What is your intended major? “Animal Health”
What other colleges have accepted you? “Cornell University, The University of Florida, North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T University.”
What clubs and sports did you participate in? “Animal Aid and Awareness Club, varsity track and field (pole vaulter), Quiz Bowl Team, Black Student Union, National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and Rho Kappa.”
What is your favorite memory from Boone? “My favorite memory was my first day of high school. Transitioning from a small private school to Boone High School was an adjustment for me but it was one of the best experiences I’ve had here. On the first day, I remember being scared but excited walking into the quad area. Seeing the hundreds of students chatting away was a big shock to me as I wasn’t expecting the sheer amount of people but it was exciting to see people who could be possible friends. What I loved the most was getting to meet new people, walking between classes, and starting a new chapter in my life. The whole day was one of my favorite experiences and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
What is your advice for incoming students? “My advice for incoming students is to never give up on your dreams and take your studies seriously starting in your freshman year. But also try to have fun and enjoy your experience at Boone. Join clubs and sports, take classes you’re interested in, attend sports games, and make friends so you can get the full high school experience. Also, try to be nice to your teachers because they care about your wellbeing and just want to help you”.
What are you most looking forward to in college? “I’m most looking forwards to being away from home as I’m going to the University of Georgia which is out of state, and I’m excited to finally be independent.”
What was your biggest challenge in high school? “My biggest challenge was staying committed to my studies and overcoming procrastination which was a big issue for me.”
Who is your biggest inspiration? “My biggest inspiration is my parents. I look up to them and all they have accomplished and they have made me who I am.
How did your experience being so involved in the school help you succeed academically? “Being involved in school helped me to expand my interests and knowledge past regular school studies. It was important to me that I became a well-rounded student, and being fully involved in the school through clubs, sports, and other events helped with that.
What will you miss most about Boone? “I will miss my teachers the most. They believed in my potential and made school enjoyable, and they honestly cared about their students. I will also miss being apart of the Finance Magnet.“
What is your biggest goal for the next year? “My biggest goal is to have a good freshman year of college and to successfully start my undergraduate research.”