Computer Science enthusiast and a proclaimed Mathlete by his friends, valedictorian Peter Phan is accepting a full ride to Harvey Mudd College this upcoming fall. Phan applied for Computer Science, as he has enjoyed it from a young age, but he will most likely pursue both Computer Science and mathematics.
“I chose Harvey Mudd due to their strong STEM programs,” Phan said. “I also enjoy how it’s both a small and large school due to its 5C campus. I applied for Computer Science because of my passion for the subject. Computer Science is extremely versatile and it can make tasks that would normally be time-consuming and difficult much easier, which gives me the opportunity to be efficient and frankly, a bit lazier. I’m a believer in the quote ‘I will always choose a lazy person to do a difficult job because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it’ [by Bill Gates]. I think that quote made me love Computer Science even more.”
Despite the quote, Phan definitely did not earn the role of valedictorian through being lazy. Achieving this title is a testament to years of academic excellence, dedication, and intelligence.
“I realized I wanted to be Valedictorian my sophomore year,” Phan said. “You have to be locked in from the start. But for anyone who’s reading this article, it’s just not worth all the pain and effort you go through. Just take classes you enjoy. But hey, who wouldn’t want to lock in for four years of their high school experience to be on the [Wolfpacket] front page and give a three minute speech at graduation?”
Dedicating four years to becoming valedictorian definitely does not sound like an easy job, so it is understandable as to why Phan feels this way. Outside of academics Phan enjoys immersing himself in robotics and playing video games with friends. Phan wants to shout out his friends, family, and teachers for being there every step of the way.
“I would like to shout out Hadi, Jacob, Kepha, and Nathan for helping me lock in and inspiring me to get valedictorian,” Phan said. “I’d also like to thank Ms. Chua, Mr. Carillo for always being there and dealing with our friend group, and finally Dr. Arboleda. Also, shout out to my brother and sister for teaching me everything I know.”
Finally, Phan would like to share some advice for upcoming juniors and seniors.
“For college apps, don’t stress it,” Phan said. “Take application season lightly. The majority of my friends and even myself started writing our college apps the week before it was due and we all got into decent schools. Just relax as much as possible.”
As Phan prepares for the next chapter at Harvey Mudd, it’s clear that his wit, drive, and academic excellence have left a lasting mark on CHS. His journey to valedictorian may not have been easy, but it’s one he’ll carry with pride into the future.
