If you spend time with a high school student, it’s easy to see how good they are at doing their own thing, focusing on reaching their goals, and acting friendly and respectful to others. Most are easy to get along with. Paint Branch junior Macoura Niambele is a nice person who's all about family. She's kind, dedicated, hardworking, and knows exactly where she's headed. A kind person who always has a smile, Macoura doesn't see herself getting any tattoos because “of the pain”. Macoura's favorite memory is "going to the pool with her cousins," which shows just how much she loves her family. She's really into her culture and being close with her family is part of that. Her family is so important to her that she cherishes the moments she spends with her relatives in Mali every summer, which helps her stay close to her roots. You might think Macoura loves winter because gift-giving is her love language she loves making people happy with gifts, But it turns out, fall is her favorite season. One aspect of fall that she enjoys is the “perfect weather and the stylish outfits.” Macoura exudes a confident vibe, always staying positive with her peers and teachers while staying true to herself. In terms of the future, Macoura hopes her first dance song at her wedding will be to the song "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran, fitting into the wedding vibe perfectly and it ” has been a favorite since she was younger.” As for her favorite thing about herself, she mentions her "complexion and work ethic." In five years, Macoura hopes to be in her last year of college and to have her career plans figured out. Even though she doesn't know what major she wants to study, she is certain that, most of all, she wants to be happy. Overall, Macoura is a sweet and kind girl who now wants to prioritize herself and her education, because she's always putting others first. By: Amina Jalloh

As junior year approaches one question seems to be on everyone’s mind: are you studying for the SAT? The answer to that question varies, as some students spend hours every day studying and some do nothing to prepare. Paint Branch junior Samantha Tewodros, a resilient and kind-hearted individual, studies day after day preparing for the SATs. After getting a not-so-desirable PSAT score last year, she dedicated herself to her studies and has set goals for herself as she strives to get a strong SAT score. This kind of work ethic is fitting for Samantha, who once said of herself: “I'm small but mighty”-- and that is nothing but true. Seeking to move from the city to tropical life in the future, Samantha dreams of moving to Florida. With the warmer environment and different people, Samantha says that she will be ready for fun-filled days. “It always feels like summer when you’re there,” she notes. While she sees herself living in a perfect dream home, outside the house, Samantha dreads the reptiles and insects Florida has to offer.  Staying out, enjoying Ethiopian cuisine, and listening to Bryson Tiller's songs sums up her perfect day. Bryson’s “Let Me Explain” is one of Samantha’s favorite songs, right before “Years Go By.” Samantha’s interest in journalism was sparked by her love for creative writing. Curious about writing styles, she joined journalism to “seek new opportunities in order to improve her writing skills.” She aspires to use her background to grow into an honest and reliable journalist.    By: Minh Nguyen