Since I’m entering what many hail as the “hardest year of high school,” I looked to my good friend Alexa Escamilla (who is on the eve of graduating from high school) for advice and guidance. Alexa is graduating early, at 17 years-old, and has been active online and in person on important worldwide issues. She stands out in the hallways in the best way possible, with her vibrant outfits and welcoming energy. Even just being around her, guarantees a good day.

Before jumping into anything else, I wanted to ask Alexa how her last year of high school is going.

“It’s going good, and definitely a lot fast than I thought,” she says. “It’s the end of the year and I’m just ready to graduate, and finish all my classes. It’s the time of wrapping everything up.”

Next I asked, “What would you say to someone to make sure ‘senioritis’ doesn’t screw them over?”

“That’s a little difficult to answer,” she starts. “I would say just living in the present. Personally, I used to overthink everything and be worried about what comes next, but now I’m seeing everything more positive [by] just living in the present. This isn’t to say I’m not excited for what comes next, but rather it’s just important to keep in touch with yourself now and practicing self-love and self-care.”

“On that note, what advice do you have for anyone going through a rough year?”

“Without getting too personal, sophmore year was hard for me. I went through a lot that year, mentally. But what got me through it was just focusing on myself, and avoiding toxic people in my life, and surrounding myself around positive people. Also people who appreciate and love me for who I am. I recommend doing something as simple as skin care, walking, or anything that makes you happy. I know I like to do little art projects, even if they’re just small and for myself. It’s also good to view hard times as a way to grow and figure out who you are as a person,” Escamilla said.

“I know you’ve been a little present in the theater productions in school. How would you encourage someone to join?”

“I got influenced to join by seeing my sister do hair and makeup, as well as costumes. The connections you make there is crazy; some people on the cast and crew I’ve never interacted with throughout my four years of high school, but meeting them – as well as a bunch of different people – was interesting. It was all really fun, and making memories. I also really like doing makeup and costumes, so if you’re into that I think you’d like it a fair amount,” Escamilla said.

I then asked one of our friends, who helped in the musical of this year ‘Little Shop of Horrors,” Keira Dooley, to talk about what having Alexa around is like.

“She’s so great, I love being around her. She is so nice and welcoming to anyone, and I really feel like I can talk to her about anything. She’s easily one of the reasons why I looked forward to coming to rehearsals,” Dooley said.

“I know you’re an advocate for many issues, so I was hoping you could talk about that a little.”

“For sure. I like to bring awareness to important things in life and on the planet. I used to be really shy when it came to sharing my opinion, but now I’m not afraid to share my voice, and use my voice for important issues. Whether it has to do with race issues, feminism, mental health – all big things I am an advocate for. And also, of course, taking care of our planet,” she says. “But also I’m big on spreading positivity, since we all can make the world a better place by working together.” 

To wrap things up, I asked Alexa what her plans for the future are.

“I plan on going to UC, and to DAAP for fashion. I’ve always loved fashion, and I really got into it as I was trying to figure out what my style is. I love every aspect of fashion – whether it’s modeling or styling or anything. I’m just really excited to see what my future holds for me.” 

Though she’s had her fair share of issues throughout her high school years, Alexa has managed to push through, maintaining that positivity that everyone who knows her can feel. And though Alexa will graduate this year, her presence will still be felt in Kings long after this year.