Lauren Cecconello

[vc_row content_placement=”bottom” css=”.vc_custom_1646435398381{padding-top: 300px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”7596″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][stm_title sep_enable=”true” title=”Interview with Lauren Cecconello ’16” title_font_size=”18″][/stm_title][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1612292644608{padding-bottom: 50px !important;}”][vc_column_text]What grades did you attend Saint Mark’s?
Kindergarten through 6th grade (2009-2016)

What plans do you have for after graduation?
I’m going to take lo-o-o-o-ng naps this summer and spend lots of time on the beach.
I’m excited about going to Connecticut College in the fall. I plan to be a Pre-Health/Chemistry major, then on to Veterinary School.

What have been some highlights of your middle and high school experiences (extracurricular activities, clubs you’ve been part of, travel, favorite classes etc)?
Some of the highlights of middle school were: Being selected to attend the pre-Veterinary summer program at Purdue University in Indiana, performing with the Soul Sisters Line Dancers, and competing at the Southern California Swimming’s Junior Olympics. In high school, I got to intern at a veterinary clinic, train with L.A. County Fire Department’s Junior Lifeguard Program, MVP Westridge Swim Team, and start my own hip-hop line dance group. I was surprised and honored to receive the 2021 Certificate of Appreciation from Altadena Town Council for community service, and now I’m looking forward to being a Circle Group Leader to the juniors at my school to prepare them for their college process. As far as favorite classes, you guessed it, science. This year I happen to be taking my favorite classes of all school years – Anatomy & Physiology, and Research in Science at CalTech.

What are some of your dreams, hopes, or aspirations for the future (this could be personally, in your life, or more broadly for your community, society at large)?
My dream is to become a veterinarian, and start a private practice. I also want to spend time in other countries to experience different ways of life and cultures.

What is your favorite Saint Mark’s memory?
The 6th grade trip to Olympic Park!

When you think back on your time at Saint Mark’s, what lessons did you learn that are with you today? Or experiences shaped who you are today?
My love for science started at Saint Mark’s. Mrs. Kim was the lower school science teacher. It was pretty cool to watch the small animals in class, and especially being able to take the class hamster home for a weekend. Ms. Baten’s 5th grade class really opened up the world of science for me. Her class is where I first felt confident to dig in and explore my fascination with science.

Who are the role models in your life?
My mother, Traci Cecconello, because she is smart, my biggest supporter, and makes me laugh, even when I’m not in the best mood. Dr. Raynald Samoa, a family friend that is well respected in his work, but always has time to serve his community and be present with his family. Juanita Jiminez, Westridge Ceramics teacher for 50 years that taught me how to make ceramics while sharing her wisdom about life. I am also inspired by some TV veterinarians: Dr. Pol from The Incredible Dr. Pol, and Dr. Diarra Blue, Dr. Aubrey Ross, and Dr. Michael Lavigne from The Vet Life.

What is the best advice you have received that you would pass on to this year’s Saint Mark’s graduates?
”Trust your power” – Colin Kaepernick
”You can do it!” – Dr. Zanita Kelly

Who would you like to read about in the Saint Mark’s Alumni Newsletter
It’s always cool to read about what’s happening with any Saint Mark’s alumni.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]