Cedar Ridge High School
2023
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.
Vincent Tran – Valedictorian
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Blackland Prairie Elementary School, Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
Honestly I have a lot of really good memories in Round Rock ISD, but one of my top memories was during finals week a bunch of friends and I played Uno shark week edition. During the game we ended up adding an extra rule where we had to make “shark noises” when playing a card or draw. None of us knew what sharks sounded like though, so it was really funny to hear what we thought sharks sounded like.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
My most influential teacher probably is my fifth grade math teacher Mrs. Stork. She introduced me to Khan Academy, which made me realize that autodidactism is a thing. Also this was so early in my education that it probably had a huge influence on my life after.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I will be attending the University of Chicago to study Mathematics.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
Grad School then Mathematician in Academia
Lana Liang – Salutatorian
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Blackland Prairie Elementary, Ridgeview Middle School and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
The best times I had were spent with people—whether it be playing volleyball with my best friends in the senior parking lot; afterschool pizza parties with my computer science teachers, Mr. Medrano and Mr. Prado; or surprising my AP Biology teacher, Mrs. Torres, with a life-size cardboard cutout of herself. I will always look back fondly at the laughs, lasting memories, and special bonds I have made over the years.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
I am grateful for every educator I have had the privilege to learn from. Every single one has left a lasting impression on my past, present, and future. I want to give a special thanks to Mr. Jones for encouraging my passion for learning by making history entertaining. To Senor Jimenez for all the “Holas” and “Buenos Dias,” which cheered up my worst days. To Mrs. Bombardella for teaching me the power of compassion and kindness. To Mrs. Freesemann for empathy and being the most incredible and supportive UIL coach ever. To Mr. Foster for pushing me to give my all in architecture and design work. Lastly, to Ms. Gabler for listening to my silly vents, believing in my capabilities, and being my confidant. You are the most “girl boss” woman I have had the pleasure of meeting in my lifetime.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
Next year, I will attend the University of Texas at Austin to study architecture in the five-year Bachelor of Architecture professional degree program. Hook’ Em!
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After college, I hope to either attend graduate school or earn my architectural license. Architecture is unique with its basis and influence on cultural, historical, and social dimensions. I aspire to learn from and collaborate with colleagues of diverse backgrounds, who prioritize sustainability and various perspectives in their practices. I intend to mentor minority and female students and encourage their interest in architecture despite the industry’s history of exclusion. While I’m uncertain where and what I will specialize in, I’m sure whatever I do, I will design to spark discussions on society in the built environment.
Saket Kaki – No. 3
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Forest Creek Elementary School, Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
My best memories during my time at Round Rock ISD are definitely from my experiences in UIL. Participating in the various competitions helped me discover my interest in pursuing a career in the field of STEM. I made some great memories with my fellow competitors as we learned, laughed, struggled, and celebrated together. The bonds and experiences that I created with the UIL members, especially when we got 1st place in the district and advanced to regionals, are things that I will never forget.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
Of the many teachers who have positively impacted my life in Round Rock ISD, one particular teacher stands out amongst the crowd: Mr. Tim Holland. He has been my teacher for both physics and engineering. Every time Mr. Holland teaches, he does so with fiery passion and exuberance. It is clear to me that no matter how many times he has taught a subject, he always remains very excited about it. Having someone not only genuinely excited about a subject, but also able to invoke the same excitement in his students has played a formative role in my decision to pursue a major and career I truly enjoy.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to study mechanical engineering through the Engineering Honors Program.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and Ph.D. degree in robotics. After graduate school, I intend to work at a robotics company, where I can contribute to the development of robots that will enhance human safety and quality of life.
Trevor Tran – No. 4
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Blackland Prairie Elementary, Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
My best memory of my time in Round Rock ISD was advancing to HOSA state for the first time. Me, as well as my partner, Vy, competed in health career display and we created a display focusing on the profession of a histology technician. We knew we had put the work in but after looking at the other competing displays, our confidence was a little shaken to say the least. However, to our surprise, we were announced as third place at the ending award ceremony advancing us to the state competition. The rush of pure joy and adrenaline I felt after discovering we were advancing is something I will never forget.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
My most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD was my AP Chemistry teacher, Mrs. White. Her passion for chemistry was extremely inspirational and is one of the biggest factors that persuaded me to pursue a future career involving chemistry. She pushed me to my limits and taught me a powerful lesson of hard work and discipline. However, not only did she develop me academically, but she also taught me so many lessons on how to just be a better person. One of my favorite quotes from her was something she said after our first unit test being, “Comparison is the thief of all joy.”
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to study Biochemistry.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
I hope to attend dental school and pursue a career in dentistry with a focus on serving lower income communities without access or ability to oral health care.
Lucas Pizzirani – No. 5
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
Track meets, orchestra concerts, robotics competitions, and international DECA conferences! I’ve had so many amazing memories during my time in Round Rock ISD but one memory from my junior year that sticks out is playing games in Ms. Lim’s room after AP tests and final exams. I’ll never forget our Switch Sports games and facing up against Trevor’s “sports mode.” Looking back on my time in high school, I am grateful for all the friends I made along the way and the fun memories we’ve shared.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
I cannot express just how much I am thankful for each and every educator who cheered me on through my educational journey, they are the reason I am where I am today. I would like to especially thank a few teachers for their role in my life: Ms. Isokpunwu and Ms. Gabler for introducing me to the fascinating world of engineering, from trusses to robotics; Ms. Lim, Ms. Rightler, and Mr. Shultz for teaching me the value of confidence, expression, and curiosity; and Mr. Holland, for sharing with me his passion for science and always believing in me.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
After graduating, I will be serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Beira, Mozambique. I then plan on attending Rice University to study mechanical engineering and computer science.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After college, I hope to blend my passions for business and engineering in a career that allows me to pioneer solutions in robotics or consumer technology.
Kayla Hoang – No. 6
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Blackland Prairie Elementary, Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
My favorite memory from the time I spent in Round Rock ISD is the moment our marching band got 3rd place at the UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest. It was late in the evening, and we (along with the other 13 finalist bands) were lined up on the field of the Alamodome in San Antonio for the ending award ceremony. They began announcing the rankings of the band starting from 14th place, and we were all nervous because we had recently gotten 9th place at the BOA San Antonio Super Regional Championship (which was disappointing compared to our 6th place finish in 2021), and wanted redemption so badly. We became increasingly surprised as we surpassed all these amazing bands who had incredible performances. As soon as we were announced 3rd, I had the realization that we did it. We had proven ourselves— all of our blood (literally), sweat (literally), and tears (literally) had materialized into a bronze medal. Knowing that our hard work had finally paid off was a feeling like no other. And I am extremely grateful for having been able to experience that.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
On the academic side of things, my most influential teacher was hands-down Mrs. Nicole White. Never in my life have I had a teacher that cares so much about her students’ success and has done such an amazing job of showing it. Her AP Chemistry class pushed me to new extremes and took my work ethic to a whole new level. Though it was very easy to be hard on myself while persevering my way through the class, Mrs. White was always there to reassure me during the rough times. On the extracurricular side of things, Mr. Greg Horner had the biggest impact on me. From giving my 8th-grade self a private lesson, to being my sophomore self’s greatest leadership mentor, to helping my senior self with audition pieces, he has always believed in me throughout my 4 years in high school band. My growth in the program— not only as a trumpet player, but as a leader— would not have been as substantial without his constant encouragement. Mr. Horner has never failed to support me, all whilst pushing me to be my best self.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin and studying Public Health Nutrition. I also plan to double major by pursuing a BSA in Human Development & Family Sciences with a minor in Business.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After college, I plan to enter the medical field— whether that’s through medical school or healthcare administration, I’ve always had a heart for helping others. Combined with my passion for the sciences, I hope that I am able to make people’s lives easier.
Leon Nguyen – No. 7
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Blackland Prairie Elementary School, Ridgeview Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
The best memories I’ve created in Round Rock ISD were near the end of junior year, after all AP exams were finished. Whether it had been playing Switch Sports or Smash Ultimate on the Nintendo Switch, goofing off with my senior friends, or bothering our teachers, the memories I created during those times I will always cherish. Those memories reminded me to appreciate the time I had with all my friends, as some would be going off to college and others would endure the harsh senior year alongside me.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
I have had a lot of teachers that influenced me as a student, but two stood out to me as people who have greatly shaped me as a person. Mr. Prado, my computer science teacher, had been the person who spiked my interest in computer science. His passion to educate each and every one of his students cultivated an environment that allowed me to express my creativity and pursuit to study the field of computer science. Ms. Lim, my Calculus AB teacher, pushed me to reach my full potential as a student, whether it was helping me through each of the previous AP Calculus AB free response questions or answering the silly questions I had for her. I am eternally grateful for both of these teachers, as they pushed me to pursue the things I am passionate in.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I will be attending Texas A&M University to study computer science.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
I hope to pursue a job in the software industry, possibly relating to artificial intelligence.
Andrea Armendariz – No. 9
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Forest Creek Elementary School, Ridgeview Middle School and Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
One of the best memories I have of my time in Round Rock ISD is volunteering for NJHS and NHS. Volunteering for these organizations have been my favorite memories because whenever I was volunteering I would be able to hang out with my friends while also helping out the community. The volunteering opportunities that I have experienced have been very rewarding and exciting. My most memorable volunteer opportunity would be the time my friends and I helped weed out a garden at our local community center in middle school.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
Throughout my time at Round Rock ISD, I have had many great teachers who were not only amazing at their job, but were also amazing people to be taught by. One of my most influential teachers would have to be Mrs. Jennifer Harvill who is my piano teacher. I have known her for the four years that I have played piano and she has taught me and supported me throughout my high school career. She has also allowed me to challenge myself which has taught me many valuable lessons such as perseverance, patience, and responsibility. The lessons that I have learned in her class are not only applicable to piano, but also to my life. I know I will be able to carry out these lessons throughout my time in university and whenever I enter the workforce as a graduate student.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
Next year, I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin. I am enrolling as undeclared in the College of Liberal Arts, but I plan to go into Public Relations at the Moody College of Communications at UT Austin.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After college I hope to pursue a career in public relations with a specification in the music industry. My goal is to be able to promote artists to people around the world in order to help the artists spread their message and music to others who need it. I hope to be able to open a company in which we represent multiple artists who have an influential and respectable impact in the music industry.
Sufna Ghaffar – No. 10
What campuses in Round Rock ISD did you attend?
Cedar Ridge High School.
What’s the best memory you have of your time in Round Rock ISD? Why?
When I look back at my high school experience, I think about all the amazing friends I’ve met along the way. I’m going to miss talking all class with my best friends and running into familiar faces in the hallways. I also have fond memories of coming together with peers in the football student section to cheer on our fellow Raiders. The feeling of community within our school is something that has made the past four years incredibly worthwhile and fun.
Who has been your most influential teacher in Round Rock ISD? Why?
I’m very glad to say that I have met many impactful teachers throughout my time in Round Rock ISD. To Ms. Torres, Mr. Hayden, Ms. Williams, and Mr. Jimenez– Thank you for always being there for us, your students, and for your radiant passion toward your fields and subjects.
Also much, much love to my MSA and ROZVI club sponsors, Ms. Lanfear and Mr. Holland, for full-heartedly supporting me through all my crazy new ideas and ventures. You all have helped me grow so much as a student and as a person, and I am excited to take all the love you’ve spread onto me and share it with the world.
What college will you be attending next year? What will you be studying?
I plan on attending the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin to major in Business.
What do you hope to pursue after college?
After college, I hope to work within either marketing or international business, and eventually pursue a Master’s degree to further my experience.
