December 2020: Millie Cruz, 12th Grade
– Colleges Applied to Johns Hopkins, Drexel, Penn State, Temple, Albright

– Favorite subject in school? Millie loves AP Chemistry; Mr. Wags teaches it in a really fun and engaging way. Millie also loves dance with Ms. Bartkus.

– Something you like about Carver? There’s a strong sense of school pride. Millie particularly enjoyed participating in a Black History Month event. It’s always fun to see how everyone comes together. Millie also loves the teachers – Mr. Winikur is a big reason why she was able to open up and project her voice.

– What do you do outside of the classroom? Millie participates in soccer and is captain of the badminton team. Outside of school, Millie is a part of Philadelphia Futures College Connection Program.

– Describe your summer experience. What skills did you learn and/or develop? Millie participated in the Yleana Leadership Academy, a program that focuses on SAT prep, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership skills. She learned a great deal this summer: how to build a company, how to talk with entrepreneurs, particularly in a virtual space. This experience helped Millie overcome her shyness and become more confident. Millie also took a class called “Issues” where she discussed issues of race, gender, social justice, and equity work.

– Why do you think it’s important to study STEM? STEM knowledge will help prepare her to become an obstetrician. As a child, she was fascinated by her pediatricians and enjoyed the atmosphere of being around doctors. As she got older and learned more about the many different medical paths, she was excited by the prospect of working with babies.

– Things you enjoy doing in your free time? Catching up with friends, playing online games with her family, crocheting

– One additional fun fact (e.g. favorite movie, favorite tv show, favorite ice cream flavor, etc.) She has had the same stuffed monkey since she was 8 years old.

– Anything else you want to share with us?

“No matter what bad things are going on, it all passes eventually. We have to keep our heads up. Some of you might see this and think it’s cringey, but this is a really true thing that you should take to heart! Keep your head up, there will always be another day! Don’t give up!”