As the final months of senior year unfold, we take the time to recognize the accomplishments and experiences of Lakeview’s graduating class. This Top Dog features Aanna Athey, a student whose journey at Lakeview High School has been filled with personal growth, unforgettable memories, and valuable lessons.
Athey moved to Lakeview as a freshman, a change that initially brought uncertainty. “At the time, I was worried I would not like Lakeview or the people that went here,” she recalls. “Lakeview changed me by opening my eyes to not be scared to try new places or things. Now that it is senior year, I realized the people at Lakeview made me who I am today.”
Reflecting on her time as a Bulldog, Athey recognizes the importance of academics. Looking back on her freshman year, she wishes she had pushed herself even harder. “A lot of people have the common misconception that your grades freshman year don’t matter, but they do,” she explains. “I did a lot of work freshman year, but I know I didn’t do it to my fullest potential. If I could go back, I would put more time and effort into my work.”
Beyond academics, Athey has enjoyed many of the traditions that make high school special. She eagerly anticipated events like homecoming and prom, saying, “I always love shopping with my friends, dressing up, taking pictures, and dancing.”
When asked about her favorite memory from senior year so far, she instantly recalls an electric moment from football season. “Winning the senior night football game was amazing. The score was very close towards the end, and the entire student section was yelling and stomping. When we won, we even tried to storm the field. It was a great way to end our season.”
The excitement of senior year is also met with the bittersweet reality of moving on. “The most difficult part about senior year is the realization we are graduating and going our separate ways soon,” Athey admits. “It’s hard to think that in a few months we will all be going on different paths after being together for so long.”
Throughout her time at Lakeview, certain teachers and mentors have left a lasting impact. “Mr. Romano has influenced me the most because he has always made sure to teach everyone about the real world, be realistic about financial responsibilities, and prepare all of his students to be able to responsibly navigate their finances,” she says. “I feel like it is really important to have a teacher to teach real-life skills that will benefit us after graduation, and Mr. Romano did exactly that.”
When asked who or what has inspired her the most, Athey credits her family—especially her dad—as well as her close friends. “They have given me the courage to go out and try new things and remind me to always be myself.”
One of her favorite memories with her best friend, Arianna Powell, took place far beyond the walls of Lakeview. “Arianna and I had to hide in a Subway bathroom from a tornado, but then when the sirens stopped going off, the sun was shining and there was a double rainbow. We drove back to my house and danced in my driveway to ‘Unwritten’ by Natasha Bedingfield.”
Athey’s advice to underclassmen is simple yet meaningful: “Prioritize your work, but also go out and make memories, take pictures, and go on adventures with your friends because you will appreciate it a lot in the future.” Some of her most cherished moments are the little ones—laughing with friends in class, experiencing the last run of ski club, and making memories during lunch and after school.
Athey’s best friend, Arianna Powell, shared what makes her so special: “Aanna is one of the most caring and fun people I know. She always knows how to make people laugh, and she is the kind of person you can always count on. Whether it’s going on random adventures or just talking about life, she has always been there for me. I know she’s going to do great things in the future, and I’m so lucky to have her as a best friend.”
As graduation approaches, Athey is ready to embrace whatever comes next. “As of right now, I don’t know what my next step in life is,” she says. “All I know is that I am looking forward to the next chapter of my life, whatever it may be.”
Aanna Athey’s time at Lakeview has been filled with growth, adventure, and lasting friendships. As she moves forward, she will undoubtedly carry the lessons and memories from her high school years with her. Best of luck, Aanna, in all your future endeavors!
