Senior standouts: Royal High School
Editor's note: Senior standouts are compiled from questionnaires filled out by the students themselves.
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"I believe that communication is essential if we would like to see change in our world," said Emilie, who is fluent in both English and French. "I see myself working for a news station . . . so that I can help raise awareness about global issues and events.
Emilie served as class president all four years while she was at Royal, also running cross country and playing the violin. She was president of the Simi Valley Youth Council, vice president of the National Honor Society and secretary of the French National Honor Society.
Despite her many leadership positions, Emilie found time to found the 1Life2Live organization in memory of Tyler Broberg.
The group raised $115,000 to build three local Habitat for Humanity homes in Simi Valley.
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After accepting his diploma, Bryan Berglund, son of Robin LeBlanc and George Wallis, is headed to the big leagues—literally. The 18-year-old is joining the Florida Marlins baseball organization after graduation.
Bryan, 18, was a standout on the Royal High School baseball team and competed in the Southern California All-Star Game. He also played with the Milwaukee Brewers scout team.
Bryan names his mother as the biggest influence in his life up to this point for her support of his dream to play professional baseball.
"She has taken me to all my baseball games and supported my baseball throughout my life," Bryan said.
He said he also appreciated the mentorship of Ms. Tumberello, who taught history, Bryan's favorite subject.
"She made class fun, and we are both Yankee fans," Bryan said.
Bryan was also involved in Renaissance Club at Royal, which involves community service activities and other campus events.
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Juliet, 18, played water polo and swam varsity for four years. She was also active in mock trial and the drama program.
Juliet particularly loved participating in vocal ensemble. She called choir her favorite subject.
"I loved making music and the wonderful friends I made," Juliet said.
In addition to all of her high school activities, Juliet also earned the Silver Award in Girl Scouts.
She credits her mom as her most prominent influence.
"She has supported me in everything that I do," Juliet said.
Juliet will attend Moorpark College for two years before transferring to a university.
In 10 years, Juliet said, she sees herself finding success in whatever career she chooses.
Geobio Boo, son of Soon Boo and Kim Lee, is looking forward to a future at a successful electronics company or perhaps even starting his own company that "designs practical electronics for millions of people."
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"The challenge of understanding physics paired with Mr. Willging's knowledge and enthusiasm made the class both fascinating and interesting," Geobio said.
The 18-year-old is headed to UC Berkeley to major in electrical engineering and computer science.
Geobio ran on the track team and competed in the academic decathlon and science olympiad. He was also a member of the Key Club and the Robotics Club.
Geobio said he's most grateful to his parents.
"My loving and supportive mom paired with my wise and determined dad have helped me become the person I am today," he said.
Jordan Ritz, son of Fred and Leslie Ritz, credits one of his Royal High School teachers with identifying his future career.
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"It let me explore my creative side and helped bring out my love for graphic design," Jordan said.
Now Jordan is set on owning a successful business, most likely in Tshirt design, or working in advertising. And he has Mr. Lev to thank for his passion, Jordan said.
"If it wasn't for him I don't know if I would ever have found graphic design," Jordan said. "He has taught me so much, and he is the best teacher I've ever had."
Jordan was also a successful water polo player at Royal, earning second team AllMarmonte League and third team All-CIF his senior year.
He will play Division I water polo at University of the Pacific next year.
