Athlete and devoted student Mary Audish is enjoying her last couple of weeks here at Canyon High School. She has attended Canyon for all four years of high school, and throughout them, she has been on the school's volleyball team.
Audish explained that being in a sport teaches people how to work with others, improves commitment, and enhances effort, all of which are great skills to have for adulthood.
Up until this year, she was on Los Angeles Volleyball Academy’s (LAVA) club volleyball team, where she competed across California and in other states. She explained to me that club volleyball improved her skills as well as broadened her community.
While in high school, making memories is one of the most important parts of being a teen, but students often get caught up in the future rather than being in the moment. However, Audish has tried to make the most of her time in high school.
She shared, “High school is a time when individuals figure out who they are and… discover new experiences. In trying new things, students are able to discover what they find interest in and discover people they wish to build bonds with. Ultimately, these memories can help to build who one is as an individual and who that person will eventually become.”
Audish told me that her favorite memory from high school was beating Valencia’s volleyball team. Valencia’s team was one of Canyon’s most difficult competitors, and by beating them, they were able to advance to CIF semi finals.
After high school, she plans to attend College of the Canyons (COC) in order to study film and then possibly transfer to the University of Hawaii at Manoa or San Diego State University. After graduating, she plans to work in the film industry as a set designer, costume designer, or stunt double for fun.
Audish explained that she first became interested in film because her dad is an animator. Due to her father’s career, Audish’s upbringing was surrounded by film, the way shows and movies are produced, and all the meaning behind a plot.
When asked what her favorite film was, she stated, “One of my favorite films is ‘Peanut Butter Falcon.’ This film is not only entertaining; it goes beyond the purpose of entertainment and is ultimately inspiring. The entirety of the movie feels very raw and real, which is one of the things I love most about movies.”
In her final moments at Canyon, I asked her about what advice she would give to future freshmen and seniors. She answered, “To future freshmen, don't be afraid to try new things; join clubs, sports, and be a part of experiences because the purpose of life is to experience. To future seniors, enjoy every moment you have. To both seniors and freshmen, take care of yourself. High school can be very difficult and take a toll on one's health, but it's important to prioritize your mental and physical health.”
Audish further explained, “Do not worry too much about what to do after graduation because you have more time to worry about that. Right now, there is too much pressure put onto kids on what they’re gonna do after turning 18.”
Having known Audish since 3rd grade, I know she will continue to do amazing things, and it’s been so special seeing her grow up! I would recommend anyone to get to know her!
