Round Rock
High School
2024
Top 10
As graduates across Round Rock ISD prepare to begin the next chapter of their lives, we take a moment to recognize the Top 10 students from each campus. The Top 10 students were asked to answer a series of questions about their journey through Round Rock ISD and their next steps.
Andrew Chang – Valedictorian
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Cactus Ranch Elementary, Walsh Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
I am incredibly grateful to have had countless teachers and supporters who have encouraged and pushed me to become a better learner as well as an individual. Thank you to Mr. Roeder for the endless hours you have dedicated to your students (and for waiting until I graduate to retire). You have impacted us in ways you can never imagine. Thank you, also, to Mr. McKinney, Mrs. Lopez, and Ms. Smith for always going above and beyond in and out of the classroom to care and uplift your students. Lastly, but certainly not least, thank you to my mom, dad, and sister for always being there for me!
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
Of the many amazing memories I have made, my time in the band and drumline stands out the most. From the scorching, grueling rehearsals to traveling across the country for competitions and performances, I have gotten the privilege to experience many unforgettable opportunities. I will cherish these memories forever, but what has made these memories even more special are the people I got to do it with. I have made so many incredible friendships that have made the ups and downs of high school all worth it.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Smile! Say hi to someone in the hallway! Hold the door for somebody! Find ways to put others before yourself because these small acts of kindness can go a long way. It is important to not forget the incredible impact we can have on someone’s life. Your own goals and ambitions are important, but what is even more impactful is how you use your abilities and talents to help and support others.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will study Biomedical Engineering at Texas A&M University as a Brown Scholar and have early acceptance into the Texas A&M EnMed Medical School.
Tanishka Gupta – Salutatorian
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Elsa England Elementary, Cactus Ranch Elementary, Walsh Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
The top two most influential people in my school career (and life overall) are my parents, without whom none of this would have been possible. They have supported me through every random and out-of-the-box decision I’ve taken, from drill team to debate to student council and beyond. I can’t thank them enough for pushing me to defy the odds and never limiting my boundaries. They’ve been with me for every early morning competition, late night show, and likely spent most of their lives in the drop-off lane for whatever new extracurricular I signed myself up for, but have never complained for a second. They’ve encouraged me to be the best version of myself, and never once told me to be someone I’m not. I’m proud to be their daughter.
I would also like to shout out my middle school dance teacher, Coach Mudd, for encouraging me to pursue my passions and showing me that dreams do come true. It was through her patience, enthusiasm, and mentorship that I found my love for dance and continued to keep up with it throughout the craziness of life. “Go and be good,” she would always say, and I carry those words with me even now.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
It’s hard to choose just one memory when I’ve been lucky enough to experience so much during my time at RRHS. The debate trip for the state tournament my junior year was an unforgettable one. I vividly remember laughing in the lobby late into the night and spontaneously taking a trip to Applebees at 1 am for a late dinner (or would it be breakfast at that point?). This year I’ve made some incredible memories dancing with the Dragonettes under the Friday night lights. Hearing the familiar band roll off and striding onto the football field in my hat, boots, and belt is a feeling I’ll never forget. In September I had the honor of being on Homecoming court. Sitting in the back of a snazzy convertible and waving to excited bystanders during the HOCO parade is a memory that will last a lifetime. Lastly, the ICDC trip I took this spring to Anaheim was one of the best experiences of my life. Giggling with my friends like a group of three-year-olds on Disney rides were moments I will cherish forever.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Don’t be scared to step outside your comfort zone. Take the leap and try something new, whether you fail or succeed. Do what you love, do it badly, just as long as you do it. You CAN have it all, it just comes down to prioritizing what matters to you. Life’s too short to not take any risks. As Wayne Gretzky once famously said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
What are your plans for after graduation?
In the fall, I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin where I’ll be double-majoring in computer science and business as part of the CSB dual degree honors program. Hook ‘em!
Marcus Alagar – No. 3
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Caraway Elementary School, Cactus Ranch Elementary School, Walsh Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
Throughout my schooling, my parents have always been incredibly supportive and encouraging. Whether it’s clubs, soccer, or music, I wouldn’t have been able to do half the things I’ve done without them.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
Celebrating with percussionists in Indianapolis at the end of a 3-month long season right after competing in the nation’s biggest marching competition.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people! While it is much easier said than done, there’s so many cool people out there with interesting stories, personalities, and interests. Not everyone has to be your best friend, either – each new person you get to know enriches your life in their own little way.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Stanford University, likely for Data Science
Tao Wan – No. 4
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Walsh Middle School and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
While I’ve learned something from everyone I’ve met throughout my school career, Mr. Conrad, Mr. Stephens, and Ms. Lestik have been especially impactful because of their humorous, supportive, and enthusiastic personalities (take their classes)!
Also, I’d like to shoutout to my friends who have shaped my high school journey and helped me grow as a person. From the 5:30am lifeguard shifts to standing on the podium at DECA, I couldn’t have done it without you guys!
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
My favorite memories throughout high school were made during my DECA and FBLA trips. Both clubs not only helped me develop as a speaker and a leader, but also allowed me to grow socially and meet lifelong friends. Lying down on the LA beach, I reminisced about my favorite memories from these trips, from playing early morning beach football to Disneyland and Universal Studios.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Nothing is impossible–stay confident and trust your hard work.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I’ll be studying Computer Science at UT Austin. Hook’em!
Marie Cho – No. 5
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Patsy Sommer Elementary School, Pearson Ranch Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
I am incredibly fortunate to have had supporters and educators who have left a lasting impression throughout my Round Rock ISD career. Thank you to my family for always pushing me to be the best version of myself and cheering me on, endlessly and unconditionally. Thank you to Mrs. Whatley for inspiring me to love the cello and spread the joy of music to our community. Thank you to Ms. Lestik for constantly brightening my day with your overflowing enthusiasm and contagious smiles. Thank you to Mr. McKinney for challenging me to work hard and strive for excellence. Thank you to Mrs. Sanders for always welcoming me into your classroom and showing kindness wherever you go. And finally, thank you to Mrs. Miller for guiding me through the ups and downs of high school and encouraging me every step of the way. You all are the foundation of my achievements and the reason I stand where I am standing today.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
The last four years have flown by in the blink of an eye, but my favorite memories would have to be organizing Homecoming in Student Council and the numerous DECA State and ICDC trips. In the midst of back-to-back tests and the never-ending stretch of schoolwork, Homecoming season was truly one of the highlights of my senior year and allowed me to collaborate with friends while bringing a sense of spirit and unity to the school – a highly intensive yet highly rewarding experience! DECA trips will always hold a special place in my heart, from exploring downtown cities to dressing up for dinner plans to laughing with friends over unforgettable moments.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Have faith in God’s plan! Although we have power over some aspects of our lives, there are many things we just simply can’t control. However, what we CAN always control are our choices, attitudes, and outlook on any given situation. High school can have its tough moments, but remember that it’s all part of the journey, and with a positive mindset, you’ll see brighter days ahead. Life will unfold the way it’s supposed to – trust the process, as they say, and trust me.
What are your plans for after graduation?
In the fall, I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to double major in computer science and business through the Computer Science Honors and Canfield Business Honors Program! After college, I hope to pursue a career in machine learning or product management, but as we all know, life is just too unpredictable to say anything for sure 🙂
Evelyn Lee – No. 6
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
Mr. Ahmed, for the goofy lectures and his tiger-mom enthusiasm towards his students.
Mr. McKinney, for being a pretty swell math teacher but an even sweller human being.
Mr. Conrad, for somehow making the Diet of Worms mildly interesting.
Lestik, for making chemistry magical enough for me to major in it.
Tang-Laoshi, for teaching me a new language and connecting me to my culture.
Mr. Carter, for educating me about the The Boss Baby movie franchise lore.
Ms. Shaffer, for positively reinforcing my association with psychology (and lemonade powder).
And all the other teachers that I’ve had the fortune to have! The golf cart people are cool too.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
Probably whenever we had to do ‘mandatory fun’ in orchestra, courtesy of Mr. Carter. Whether it meant catching crickets in the 900 building, almost breaking my ankle trying to do the Ukrainian hopak dance in preparation for full orchestra UIL, or learning how to Mongolian throat-sing, there was never a dull moment in Phil-har-mon-ic Orc-hest-ra.
It’s either that, or Ahmed’s 8th period Medical Interventions where we’d just draw on the whiteboard and play hangman.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Value your time at RRHS, because after freshman year, the next three years get exponentially quicker and you’ll want to make the most of your high school experience while you can. Also, practice your dodging and weaving skills because passing period crowds get kinda crazy.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I’ll be double-majoring in Chemistry and Plan II honors at UT Austin. I’m also in the Polymathic Scholars Program and the Dedman Distinguished Scholars Program. Afterwards, I hope to go into medical school to become a doctor.
Sushant Sanklipur – No. 6
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Cedar Valley Middle School and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
My family has been the most influential part of my life and school career. They have constantly gone above and beyond to enrich my life with beautiful memories and meaningful lessons. Their constant support and encouragement has helped me learn to dream without bounds. I know I would not be the person I am today without them.
I have also been extremely fortunate to have amazing teachers throughout my academic career. Some that I would like to thank in particular are Ms. Smith, Ms. Lopez, Ms. Lestik, and Mr. Mckinney. Ms. Smith, thank you for always making class fun and helping me connect with my passion for medicine. Ms. Lopez, thank you for helping me find a passion for science and making even the most difficult topics extremely interesting. Ms. Lestik, thank you for always making 8th period a class to look forward to and answering all my various questions. Mr. Mckinney, thank you for always challenging me as a learner and always making class engaging.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
My favorite memory about Round Rock has been the experiences that I have had when traveling and competing for DECA. Through these trips, I have gotten to travel across the country and make lifelong memories with my friends.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Never compromise on your dreams. All that stands between you and accomplishing your goals is discipline and hard work. So keep pushing yourself, continue to redefine your potential, and know it will pay off one day.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to pursue a degree in Neuroscience.
Shreeya Pulyala – No. 8
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Patsy Sommer Elementary, Cedar Valley Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
I wouldn’t be here without the support of my parents who filled our house with laughter, love, and so many memories. They have been by my side since day 1 and every step of my career, and for that I am extremely grateful!
I would also like to thank Mrs.Lopez, Ms.Smith, and Mr.Stephens for all their guidance and encouragement as I pursued all my goals these past four years! I appreciate all you have done for me and teaching me lessons that I will use in college and beyond!
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
Of all my core memories at Round Rock High School, the DECA trips were definitely my favorite. But, more specifically, ICDC at Orlando was one of the most memorable. Whether it was riding the Velocicoaster three times, our late night gossip sessions, or meeting new people from all over the country, this trip was one for the books! I will cherish this trip as it opened me to new experiences and friendships that I will carry with me forever!
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
Have fun! It is so easy to get stuck with all the tasks you have to complete, but it is so important to try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone. High school goes by in a blink of an eye, so make sure to take step back and take it all in!
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will be attending the University of Texas Austin, where I will be double-majoring in Biochemistry and Plan ll honors on the pre-med track! After that, I plan to attend medical school and pursue a career in pediatric surgery!
Sneha Shekhar – No. 9
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Laurel Mountain Elementary, Patsy Sommer Elementary, Cedar Valley Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
I am fortunate enough to say that all my teachers have been extremely influential and essential to my school career. From elementary school to high school, my teachers have had so much contagious passion and commitment to what they teach and I truly wouldn’t be who I am today without them.
I would especially like to thank Coach Sato for always being by my side whether it was teaching freshman year biology online or checking in on me and congratulating me throughout the years or even stepping in to oversee a club the second I asked him to. Additionally, Mr. Kentner is one of the most talented and empathetic teachers I know, and I would like to thank him for two incredible years in game design as well as stepping up as sponsor of my coding club. Being around Mrs. Sanders, who was not only the RRHS Student Council sponsor, but almost like a guardian to me, was genuinely the positive light to every one of my days because I felt so ready to tackle any challenge with her on my side.
Last but never least, my parents and my sister, Smera, contribute to every step of my journey and I owe all of my successes to them.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
My favorite memory about Round Rock High School was serving as Student Body President and working with a team of exceptional leaders to make a difference in our community. We worked on projects such as organizing many Homecoming activities (parade, court, etc), Spirit of Giving, where we collected and distributed presents to several children who wouldn’t otherwise have access to gifts during the holiday season, and carrying out Teacher Appreciation Met Gala to show gratitude for Round Rock teachers, the best in the world! My good memories did not come from seeing how successful we were in carrying out these events, but from the fun we had working and stressing together as a team, from the hugs I received from several adorable children and their grateful parents, and from the overall impact bringing a smile on others faces had on me. In addition to Student Council, all my DECA trips, from the district level to ICDC, have always resulted in amazing memories I will never forget!
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
1. Take things one at a time. High school might seem super daunting and overwhelming right now, but doing things in parts will make it so much more manageable. Split things up and give yourself breaks between these steps as well!
2. Remember that everything will be okay in the end. The big history test you’re studying for today will be over with in the next 24 hours, so don’t sweat the small stuff! One night you’re worrying about this big freshman year test and in the blink of an eye, you’ll be getting ready to graduate!
3. Go out of your comfort zone and try new things! High school is about finding yourself and you can’t do that without exploring everything it has in store for you! You might just find your new best friends or your new favorite hobby through these activities.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will be studying Computer Science and Business as part of the CSB dual degree honors program at the University of Texas at Austin.
Amisha Sao – No. 10
Which Round Rock ISD campuses did you attend?
Kathy Caraway Elementary, Patsy Sommer Elementary, Cedar Valley Middle School, and Round Rock High School
Who has been most influential in your school career? Why?
My third-grade teacher Mrs. Rachel Hadden has been the most influential in my school career. Even after leaving Kathy Caraway, her words of encouragement helped me transition to Patsy Sommer and carried me through middle and high school. High school had many challenges, but I have to thank Ms. Hodges and Mrs. Sarlls for being the most influential teachers in high school. Ms. Hodges would always leave her door open for me, and even when she would be teaching a class, I was always welcome to sit on her couch. Whether it was schoolwork or personal life bothering me, Ms. Hodges’ reassuring hugs never failed to make me feel better. Mrs. Sarlls taught me to admire a subject I used to be so intimidated by. From the books we read to the class discussions to the witty commentary, each class was something new to look forward to. Mrs. Sarlls’ was also willing to listen, and throughout our many discussions, she never failed to make my day brighter. From the stressed moments over academic failures to the excited personal victories, Ms. Hodges and Mrs. Sarlls have been a constant positive light throughout my later high school years.
What is a favorite memory about Round Rock High School?
My favorite memory about Round Rock was the AP Art Portfolio Gallery Showcase in junior year. Throughout last year, while working on my art portfolio, I was focused mainly on the AP submission. However, the gallery showcase allowed me to present my artwork to the public. The endless hours of working on these 15 pieces culminated in showcasing five prints that represented The Mother-Daughter Relationship. The highlight of that night was the proud expression on my mom’s face–the only reward I needed.
What is some advice you’d like to share for students starting high school next year?
You don’t have to be good at everything and nor does anyone expect you to be! High school is about finding your identity, but it can also be a challenge to know what floats your boat. So, take your time to find what you enjoy.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will be attending the Georgia Institute of Technology and studying Computer Science with People and Devices threads.
