Throughout high school, a lot of the time the focus is shifted more towards the athletes because they are typically the big people on campus, and they are overall liked by many. However, not all the time do we as peers recognize the students that show their talents in their school work. Junior, Craig Valdez is actually an athlete and shines in his schoolwork. When life gets stressful, Craig likes to play video games, hang out with friends, and even do homework.

“I’m one of those weird types of people that somewhat enjoy school,” said Valdez, “I do all these things because they get my mind off the stressful situations life offers.”

Over the years, Craig has come out of his shell and become less shy. “If I had to thank anyone this year it would be my friends. I don’t know how, but they transformed me from a shy, quiet, awkward person to a loud, but still awkward person,” said Valdez. Craig is thankful to have friends that made him comfortable enough to transform into a more outgoing person. Craig has met new people, and has gotten involved in sports, and started going to the gym, which he enjoys. Craig recently joined the track team this year and participates in distance running.

Craig is also involved in many other activities outside of school. He is very involved in Boy Scouts, his internship at Jeff Denham, and his church, Cornerstone. Even with all of the extra activities, Craig manages to maintain high grades. He is very humble about his grades and said that he tries not to talk about his 4.4 GPA too much because he does not want to seem like he is bragging. However, a 4.4 GPA is incredible, especially while also being so involved with other activities.

“It’s hard to find the time to properly manage school work and a busy lifestyle but with a lot of caffeine anything’s possible,” said Valdez.

As for college, Craig hopes to attend either Cal Poly, University California Santa Barbara, or University California Davis and major in Biochemistry.

“Biology is my favorite subject because I find it fascinating how all organisms on earth were developed so intricately and complexly.”

When Craig isn’t studying, volunteering at Jeff Denham, running track, or hanging out with friends, he loves to play video games and spend time with his pet guinea pig, Ginger.