Gabriella '23

When Gabriella C. ’23 began at Oakcrest her junior year after moving from New York, she said her family chose Oakcrest “because of the smaller size and welcoming atmosphere.” And as she prepares to graduate in the spring, she added that Oakcrest has provided her with “amazing opportunities, friends, and lessons” over the past year and a half.

Gabriella participates in Oakcrest activities in a wide variety of ways, from theatre and choir to Mathematics Honor Society and Guitar Club. “Doing theatre, guitar, and choir also help me express my love of music while at school. Having a creative outlet is very important to me, so I’m happy to have a school that provides a space where I can do that,” she explained. 

One particular class that Gabriella enjoyed last year was Art Portfolio Prep. “It was a class that helped us grow in many different art skills and build a portfolio that we presented at the end of the year,” she said. “I loved the relaxing atmosphere, the small class size, and the material that was taught. I received a lot of constructive feedback, so by the end of the year, I not only improved in art, but also made many good memories.” 

Gabriella also serves as President of the American Sign Language Club. “Being president of the ASL club has given me an amazing opportunity to share my love of ASL and the deaf community,” she said. “As a CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult), bringing my culture and experience to Oakcrest has been a wonderful experience.” 

Among senior class privileges is the opportunity to study in the Senior Loft, which is something Gabriella said she enjoys often. Enrichment time each day she has found to be important. “As high school students, we can get overwhelmed very easily, so having a place that prioritizes our mental health and stability by giving us a time to breathe and take a break, whether that be by going to Mass or taking a quiet period to read, is very helpful and something I do not take for granted,” she said.

When Gabriella leaves Oakcrest, one top memory she is taking with her is performing in the school’s production of Mary Poppins as Miss Andrews. “The cast was amazing, and my role was so fun to play around with, so it was definitely a highlight of the year for me,” she said. “I got to know so many people from all grades whom I had not previously known before, and working together to put on a great show brought us all closer together, so it was an experience I greatly treasure.”

Outside of Oakcrest, Gabriella works a part-time job, takes piano lessons, writes and produces her own music, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.