I have many interests outside of academics, sports, and music that keep life exciting. I love traveling to new places, always eager to experience different cultures and perspectives. In the winter, I spend as much time as I can skiing—my favorite slopes are in Keystone, Colorado, where the views are breathtaking. Skiing gives me a rare mix of freedom and adrenaline that no other sport can match. When summer arrives, I head to Lake Michigan to enjoy the water and unwind. I especially love the thrill of riding jet skis across the lake, feeling the spray and speed as the skyline fades in the distance. Beyond that, I enjoy relaxing with music, watching good movies, and catching soccer matches—especially when my favorite player and all-time soccer legend, Lionel Messi, is on the field.

Chess

Chess is my favorite way to spend my downtime. What fascinates me most about chess is how every move can flip the entire game—one moment calm and logical, the next a whirlwind of strategy and surprise. I first learned the basics at age seven and quickly improved by playing daily with my older brother. Before long, chess became a family pastime—played with friends, siblings, parents, and grandparents alike. When I entered high school, my brother introduced me to competitive chess at Glenbrook South. I began on the JV team, and by sophomore year, I had earned a spot on varsity, playing the lower boards. I competed at the state tournament on board eight, where our team placed 5th in 2024 and 15th in 2025. Over the past two years, I’ve held boards five through eight and fought through countless challenging matches. I’m captivated by how chess turns pure thought into battle—each game a story of strategy, risk, and resilience. I’m now looking forward to an incredible senior season and the chance to push my game even further.

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Travel

I love exploring new places and cultures, having traveled to 16 U.S. states (IL, MI, AK, FL, CO, HI, TN, LA, NY, PA, CA, IN, MO, DC, WI, OH) and 5 countries (U.S., Canada, Romania, Bulgaria, Greece) so far. Each trip offers a new adventure—from hiking mountain trails to discovering local food and music. My goal is to visit all 50 states and one day travel through Western Europe to experience its rich history and catch a few unforgettable soccer matches along the way.

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