-Name, age, grade, city of residence
Zoe Kelly, 17 years old, 12th, Santa Cruz
-What inspires you?
Ever since I was a little kid, I have had a passion for justice. If I perceive something as being unjust, I will do whatever I can to remedy that.
-What is your favorite subject in school, and why?
My favorite subject in school is history. I believe it is important to have a clear understanding of the past in order to effectively make a difference in the future.
-If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would give everyone the power to listen without being reactionary or judgmental. Imagine how much would get accomplished if we truly listened to one another!
-If you could go anywhere, where would you go?
Since this question doesn’t specify whether or not I’m allowed to time travel, I’m going to say 6th to 4th century BCE Nepal. This was when and where historians agree Buddha lived and I have quite a few questions that I would love to ask him.
-Name one big challenge in your life right now:
The biggest challenge in my life is balancing the tricky duality that senior year presents. I am trying to think about my future while also cherishing the time I have left at home with my family and friends,
-What is your dream job?
Being the White House Press Secretary, like C.J. Cregg from The West Wing (Claudia Jean “C. J.” Cregg is a character played by Allison Janney on the television serial drama The West Wing).
-What are your three favorite things?
In no particular order: my record player, watching the sky turn an angry grey right before it storms and having candid conversations with unexpected people. 
-Favorite books:
The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
-What do you want to do after high school?
Right now, my plan is to go to college and then law school. I would also like to run for office someday.
-Something that makes you smile:
Realizing when I’m living a moment that will become a good memory.
-A favorite MMS memory – and why?
The entire Learning Journey to Washington, D.C. was a highlight for me. Every day, we would go and interview inspirational people who had accomplished amazing things, but I was always struck by what I learned when we got back to our hostel each day. After most people were asleep, a group of us would stay up and prep questions for the following day’s interview. The exhaustion of the day, mixed with the delirium that comes with staying up as late as we were, created a raw and organic atmosphere. In that atmosphere, all walls were down — teacher to student, kid to adult, senior to junior, etc. Everyone was talking, laughing, debating, and contributing. I learned so much about the people I spend every day with and made so wonderful memories. I will treasure that trip for as long as I live.
-Top Three most played songs on your iTunes or iPod:
In My Life by The Beatles
Last Nite by The Strokes
Brain Damage/Eclipse by Pink Floyd
