We asked three Carlmont graduating seniors how their identities have changed from freshman year until now.
Audrey Gong, Senior Class President: “Freshman year, I did not win the election. I was pretty shy, and I wasn’t very confident in myself. But sophomore year, I ran again, and I won, so I think taking that step and resisting failure was something that was really important to me.”
Sachin Bulfer, Senior Class Valedictorian: “I moved across the world and transitioned schools in freshman year. I’ve grown a lot, like becoming taller and more mature, but other parts have stayed constant, like how I’ve always been motivated and curious. It’s such an honor and privilege to be valedictorian. I know so many other amazing students that I thought were far more deserving than I am, but I see it less of an ‘Oh I won’ thing and more of an opportunity to represent my graduating class.”
Jayden Lee, future Johns Hopkins University student: “I was doing way too much freshman year, just because I was figuring out who I wanted to be and trying different things. Now, I feel like I’m a little more grounded in myself and less worried about what other people think about me. I’m a lifelong learner, and I’m never going to be certain who I am, but I feel a lot more grounded.”
We then asked them what they would tell their younger selves.
Audrey Gong, Senior Class President: “Take things day by day because time truly does fly. These very last weeks, I have been trying to slow down, cherish, and maximize my time here at Carlmont. Not to be afraid of failure, because failure isn’t necessarily the opposite of success, and the stories we create in our heads seem way more catastrophic than what truly happens, even if things don’t go our way. To find a group of people who allow you to be authentic not only to yourself, but to other people.”
Sachin Bulfer, Senior Class Valedictorian: “Just be your authentic self. There’s a myriad of more special advice I could give, but I don’t think my freshman would listen to it.”
Jayden Lee, future Johns Hopkins University student: “Work really hard and find things that you’re passionate about, and find the right people to do it with. The team around you is so important, so find people that will bring you positive energy and cut anyone off who brings you negative energy.”
Congratulations to the Carlmont Class of 2026!
