May 15, 2025 - Canyon High School Valedictorian Valerie Arenas gives us an inside look into her high school experience in a graduation Q+A.
How did you find out you were Valedictorian?
I was in a macro lecture when I got called out of class. Mrs. Woodrum, Mr. Davisson, Ms. Boyd, and Mrs. Simmons were all in the room when they announced that I was Val! We all high fived and hugged each other, it was a pretty special moment. My parents were very emotional when they found out; they ended up taking me out for coffee at the Gruene Coffee Haus to celebrate and we ordered in food that evening.
Can you share what your speech is going to be about?
I am planning on talking about the three pieces of advice that I found very helpful for promoting self-growth. We’re all going through change, and I’d like to inspire that change to be growth.
Describe the entirety of your high school experience in one word.
Eye-opening
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
The ability to look into the future. I am very type A and love knowing things, surprises really throw me off. Kind of like That’s So Raven.
What's your favorite way to relax?
I like to stay pretty active, so probably workout. I am a big yoga person and I like to be outside and go on walks to enjoy nature.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
Glenn Powell, because he really cares about education and has made a name for himself in Hollywood. He is going to UT Austin to finish his degree, and I find that to be really inspiring. I feel like we would have so much in common over dinner at a nice Mexican restaurant where they serve sizzling fajitas.
Who would you say is your biggest supporter? Why?
My dad and mom equally because they have sacrificed a lot for our lives here in the United States. We immigrated from Venezuela, and they did that for my future. Everything I have done, they have never told me “no,” instead they always find a way to accomplish my goal.
If your high school experience was a movie/song, what movie/song would it be?
Legally Blonde, even though I am not blonde, because in the beginning of the movie the protagonist, Elle Woods, is underestimated. When you first meet her, you would not assume she is very studious or interested in making a name for herself, and I feel like I can relate to that. People tend to be surprised when they find out that I am very dedicated to my education.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the fall where I will be majoring in biology through the Health Science Scholars Honors program. I plan on writing my own thesis while I am there and minoring in business, because I would like to open my own coffee shop at some point in my life. I am interested in pursuing a career in anesthesiology.
What's a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
It’s okay to put yourself first.
Thank you Valeria Arenas for Growing Greatness on your Path to Success!
Photo Descriptions
- Canyon High School Valedictorian Valeria Arenas graduation photo.
- Canyon High School Valedictorian Valeria Arenas senior photo.