Pooja K.
About Me
Hi! My name is Pooja and I am a Senior at Stanford OHS. I am a Team USA figure skater, a two-time USFS National medalist (Novice Bronze and Junior Silver), and I have represented the US at various international figure skating events. I love traveling and exploring new places, and being a Team USA figure skater has allowed me to do that. I have gotten the opportunity to compete in countries such as Finland, Croatia, Germany, and Slovakia and not only meet figure skaters from around the globe, but also become immersed in the cultures of the places I’ve traveled. My other passions include baking, reading/writing, biking, and entrepreneurship (I have co-created two products: a unique, easy access binder/notebook holding bag and an innovative paper plate which allows the user to hold both their food and drink in one hand). I try to stay involved with Stanford OHS by being a TA for AP Chemistry, serving as Senior Class Vice President, and engaging with Stanford OHS’s numerous student organizations-- my favorites being UNHCR Club, The Pixel Journal, and Pixel Chefs!
Why I Chose Stanford OHS
I chose to attend Stanford OHS because as a Team USA athlete and competitive figure skater, I am frequently traveling to training sites and competitions across the country and around the world. I discovered Stanford OHS in 2018 while trying to find an online substitute for my brick and mortar school, and after researching it further, I found that Stanford OHS was exactly what I was looking for- an academically rigorous school that encourages students to pursue their passions while offering them the best education possible. Stanford OHS also stood out to me because student’s classroom schedules are specifically designed to meet their needs: I have skating practice throughout the day, so I requested that my classes be early in the morning and later in the evening, allowing me to focus on my classes and my skating when I need to. At my brick and mortar school, I would miss weeks of school for training and competitions, making it difficult for me to learn all the information taught in class and engage with my classmates and teachers. But, at Stanford OHS, I can attend my classes wherever I am and be fully engaged with other students and instructors through the virtual classrooms.
What I Love About Stanford OHS
On top of my love for Stanford OHS’s challenging curriculum and flexible class schedule, I love the students and instructors! Before joining Stanford OHS, I didn’t know that so many talented and passionate students could all exist in one place! Discovering students’ passions through student organizations and learning about their perspectives through immersive class discussions have broadened my worldview and exposed me to so many new ideas. Not only are the students at Stanford OHS interested in learning, but the instructors are passionate about teaching us too! My instructors get me excited about learning and encourage me to expand on my thoughts, and because of this, I have discovered how to think deeply and critically.