Most people don’t realize when they’re in the presence of greatness, because sometimes, greatness doesn’t shout. It studies late into the night, clocks shifts at 21 Choices, instructs kids after school, and quietly leaves behind a trail of excellence—and Diet Coke—in its wake.
That’s Justine Ouellette.
Anyone who knows Justine Ouellette knows her iconic senior parking spot—painted with the words “The one where we graduate,” a perfect nod to the beloved 90s hit sitcom Friends. Besides being known for her iconic parking spot, Ouellette is known for everything—from a scholar racking up academic honors, a cornerstone of the German Club, to effortlessly juggling leadership roles while somehow managing to still balance a well-maintained social life. Now, she’s turning the page to her next chapter—“the one where she goes to Davidson.”
Established in 1837, Davidson College is one of the oldest colleges in North Carolina—and one of the most well-respected liberal arts schools in the country. Ranked among America’s most selective colleges, it values the very ideals that Justine Ouellette has demonstrated in high school. With small class sizes and endless opportunities—from undergraduate research to fully funded study abroad adventures—Davidson is a perfect fit for someone as curious, driven, and full of heart as Ouellette.
“Initially, I had never heard of Davidson,” Ouellete said. “But after I got in and started doing my research, I really liked what I saw. I wanted research opportunities, I wanted study abroad opportunities, and I wanted good programs. At bigger schools, it can be harder to get those hands-on experiences. I also really like the small class sizes—students are more engaged.”
Ouellette plans to major in math, but don’t expect her college journey to stick to one formula. With Davidson’s global learning programs—78% of students participate in international experiences—she’s already eyeing international adventure.
“I’m so excited about the study abroad program,” said Ouellette. “They’ll fund the trip, so if I wanted to go to Germany and spend two weeks eating different kinds of bratwursts and rating them, Davidson would fund that.”
Her words of wisdom for anyone in high school are simple, yet calculated with purpose.
“Get involved as much as you can. There’s always something to do—and those are the memories you’ll actually remember.”
Of course, Ouellette didn’t get here alone.
“Shoutout Macy Lee, Libby Raviv, Heidi Dempsey, Lucas Grannis, and Isabelle Shie,” Ouellette said. “But also a huge thank you to all the teachers who supported me through these four years—Frau Tsai, Ms. Tran, Mr. Thomas, Ms. Bodnar—everyone who helped me through full IB, which has definitely been a struggle at times.”
As she packs up her final notebooks and memories from Claremont, it’s clear this isn’t just the end of high school—it’s the next episode in a story only Ouellette could write. With all her successes and accomplishments, do not expect this to be the last time Justine Ouellette makes the headlines. Because while Claremont may technically be “the one where she graduates,” it’s far from the season finale.
