Valedictorian: Prisha Khuchanmandi

RACHEL DEANDREA, Contributing Writer

What advice would you give to younger students that you wish someone gave to you?

Live life to the fullest. It means different things for different people, but I honestly believe that you should take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, whether it be socially, educationally, [or some other way]. Do not put any limits on what you can accomplish or what experiences you can have, just enjoy every moment and put your full effort into anything you love.

Who inspired/encouraged/guided you throughout your journey at NBTHS? How

The Model United Nations Co-Adviser, Mrs. Johnson. Not only does she work tirelessly to run the club (from taking us to Spain to planning for our annual conference), but she genuinely cares about each and every one of the club members. I can’t remember how many times I’ve visited her room throughout this year when I needed someone to talk to. Also, Ojal Khubchandani, Rhea Palliath, Anne Chedid, Saloni Agshiker, and Naina Choudhari were some of my biggest supporters throughout my high school journey. They motivated me along every step of the way, and I credit many of my accomplishments to their unconditional support. I’m so grateful to have met some of my closest friends and mentors at NBTHS.

What college are you planning to attend and what will be your major? Why did you choose this school/major?

I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin, and double majoring in the Canfield Business Honors Program and Mathematics. I’m incredibly excited to be attending my dream school in the fall, and wholeheartedly believe that the program, the environment, and everything in between is the right fit for me. Additionally, I’m passionate about a wide variety of subjects, and I know a double major will allow me to glide seamlessly between my diverse interests from business and law to mathematics, exploring their interconnected nature in the process. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

[I will] most likely working abroad in consulting. I may even pursue a JD/MBA after working for a few years, or explore my interest in mathematics further.

What was your favorite memory from your time at NBTHS?

Definitely Model UN’s trip to Berlin and Prague last year. It was truly the highlight of my high school career, getting to travel to culturally diverse countries with my best friends and debating with people from all over the world. I gained so many new perspectives and experiences from this amazing opportunity. 

How do you feel about graduating?

Bittersweet. As senior year comes to an end, I keep reminiscing about the memories I’ve made these past few years. However, as amazing as these four years have been, I’m so excited to see what comes next and be an entirely new environment. I can’t wait to move on to the next chapter of my life at UT Austin and take advantage of the opportunities there.

What has been the biggest challenge throughout your high school career?

Managing a wide variety of commitments. It can be very difficult to balance several activities and simultaneously prioritize your personal life, without knowing if you’re choosing the correct path. 

What advice would you give to anyone hoping to become Valedictorian?

I promise you that the studying (or cramming), organizing, scheduling, and everything in between is worth it. The journey to becoming Valedictorian is definitely not easy, but it is incredibly rewarding. My advice to you is to set high goals for yourself and put your full effort into achieving them. Even if it doesn’t seem like it right now, it will all work out in the end.

Were you involved in any clubs or sports? If so, how did you manage to maintain good grades throughout the year?

I was involved in a wide variety of commitments both inside and outside of school at NBTHS, most notably Model United Nations and DECA. Balancing commitments is all about organization; for me, I used my planner and a to-do list religiously. Writing down every single one of my tasks, breaking them into smaller, more approachable parts, and scheduling all my activities in a calendar is the sole reason I was able to manage my time. 

What do you think the biggest challenge students will face in the future?

I think a lack of motivation or commitment is my biggest concern for students in the future. Being involved in clubs and sports, while also managing your classes, can be overwhelming at times, and it’s easy to lose motivation or the willingness to work along the way. 

What is your favorite memory from the 2024-2025 school year?

The end of Senior Prom: All of my friends were in a circle, dancing and screaming the lyrics of "Party in the USA," "Starships," etc. I kept on looking around me to take the moment in, and I think that was the moment when I finally processed that I’m graduating high school and leaving these incredible memories and people.