For Amal M. ’26, she says her understanding of teamwork has developed significantly over the years through her experience playing team sports. 

“The sports that I have played emphasize that success is not reliant on one individual; rather, everyone plays a role, regardless of how large or small,” she says. “Each person’s contribution has a meaningful impact on the team’s overall performance. Communication with teammates is also essential, as is the ability to learn from mistakes.” 

Amal added that accepting constructive criticism from teammates and coaches is also important for both personal and collective improvement. 

She has been a star player of the varsity soccer team, leading the team in goals during her freshman year, and in goals and assists during her sophomore season, in addition to being named offensive player of the year, First-Team All-Conference, and First-Team All-State. Amal also plays on the Varsity Basketball team. 

“Sports not only allow me to meet new people and form new friendships, but also provide something I look forward to after school. They serve as a valuable way for me to unwind and take my mind off academic pressures,” she says. 

Starting at Oakcrest in the sixth grade, Amal said she was drawn to the friendly and welcoming community. 

“From the start I was warmly embraced, and I knew that Oakcrest would provide me with an exceptional education and challenge me to grow academically and personally,” she said. 

Within a typical school day, one of her favorite parts of the day is lunchtime. “It provides an opportunity to connect with my friends, where we are laughing and smiling endlessly,” Amal explains. “Lunch also serves as valuable time for engaging in various clubs, allowing me to participate in activities that align with my interests and hobbies.” 

Amal is actively involved in many areas throughout campus, from serving as co-president of Student Ambassadors, a member of Science Olympiad, Photography Club, and Computer Science Club, and as Vice President of the Boosters Club. 

Her most memorable class so far has been 8th grade American History with Mrs. Andie Salerno. “I had the privilege of sharing this class with some of my closest friends and it was filled with laughter and joy,” Amal recalls. “We got to explore the lives of courageous Americans and even host the ‘Most Courageous American’ contest, which was a highlight of that year.” 

Another highlight that year was her 8th grade class’s hike up Old Rag, which served as an incredible bonding activity. 

“Once we reached the summit the beautiful view made the hike up the mountain worthwhile,” she said. “I had the opportunity to connect with classmates that I do not typically interact with during school.” 

To Amal, being an Oakie means “to foster a strong sense of sisterhood with those around your school” and to contribute to “personal growth,” which she has seen in many ways throughout her time at Oakcrest, particularly through the school’s mentoring program. 

“One of my favorite aspects of Oakcrest is the opportunity for mentoring and the ability to meet with my teachers after class,” Amal says. “Mentoring plays a crucial role in providing guidance and advice, helping me to set goals, and navigate any challenges I may encounter. It fosters a strong sense of community and communication between my mentor and I, offering reassurance that there is someone I can confide in whenever I need support or direction. Throughout the year, my mentor assists me in overcoming any difficulties I face, offering valuable tips and strategies that often have a lasting impact.”