Ferndale High School senior Eleana Ramirez has been involved in many different activities during her four years at FHS. But she says the highlight is being involved in the school’s leadership class. In particular, she loved working on the annual Multicultural Night, which “brings everyone together.”

“The class brings out my creative side and develops skills that are used everyday in the world,” Ramirez said of FHS’ leadership program. “I love being a part of my school's community and helping with events we have. Learning to make connections is a main point I will take away from our class.”

Ramirez emphasizes building a welcoming community at FHS by promoting the school’s many clubs and sports and by being a welcoming presence. She believes there should be more community-building activities in class to help foster student relationships.

“I always talk to new people and make connections in my classrooms,” she said.

Two things that Ramirez prides herself on is being aware of her needs and others’ needs, as well as earning a 3.60 grade point average.

“I am very proud of having good grades in all my classes because I understand how difficult school can be,” she said.

After graduating this June, Ramirez plans to stay close to home and attend Western Washington University. She hopes to earn a degree in a business or marketing field.

“These degrees offer knowledge and skills that are important in the real world,” Ramirez said. “Going down that career path also is very secure because of the variety of opportunities.”

Ramirez said the most influential person in her life is her mom, who has always led her in the right direction.

“She gives me advice that has helped me grow into the person I am now,” she said of her mom. “She is very logical and smart, which then helps me to be more like her.”