My name is Kayla Williams and here are a few things you should know about me. I was born and raised in Stockton, California and my favorite color is pink. Growing up I played nearly ever sport you could think of but always had a passion for dance. I love the outdoors and from the time I was a little girl I knew I wanted to study marine biology. I want to focus my school memory book on my last few years of high school and college, because they were some of the most influential years of my life. This time period and the people around me made me who I am today. Hope you all enjoy!

I attended Lincoln High School in Stockton, California. My high school years were some of the best years of my life however they were also the most life changing. Freshman year was very difficult for me because it was hard for me to figure out just where I belonged on a campus of over 2,000 students. I was more focused on making friends then I was focused on my academics. This was the first time throughout my education that I did not make the honor roll list and started failing classes.

One day I met with my academic advisor to discuss my plans for college. She told me that based on my freshman year grades, I was not on track to attend college unless I really pushed and did summer school. She was the first person to really open my eyes about the path I was taking and what I could do to change it. She enrolled me in summer school and made a full proof plan for me to succeed and head off to a 4 year university like I had always dreamed of.

The following months I was more motivated then ever. I became vice president of the science club, attended science camp as a counselor, and made the honor roll list.

Other than my academic advsior and teachers, I think one of the most influential aspects of my high school journey was my friend group. Over the years I made life-long friends who were encouraging, supportive, and academically driven.

May 1st, otherwise known as commitment day was one of the best days of my high school career. With the support of my family, teachers, advisors, and friends, I committed to Oregon State University to study marine biology. My dream.

Graduation day. I was a senior scholar and awarded for more than 200 hours of community service