Class of 2025 Valedictorian & Salutatorian: Legacy, Leadership & What’s Next

Congratulations! What are your next steps after graduation?

Syriana: I’ll be attending Spelman College to study biology on a pre-dental track. Right after graduation, I’m taking time to rest and celebrate with loved ones before diving into college prep–thinking about dorms, roommates, and adjusting to life in Atlanta.

Maryama: I’m heading to Brown University, likely majoring in either biomedical engineering or applied math and computer science. I’m excited for independence. Brooke has been supportive, but I’m ready to take charge of my own education, especially with Brown’s open curriculum.

What draws you to plan to study those subjects?

Syriana: I’ve always wanted meaningful work I enjoy, and dentistry stuck with me. Unlike hospitals, the dentist’s office never scared me. Growing up, my mom prioritized dental hygiene, which shaped my perspective. There’s a real lack of access and awareness in minority communities, and I want to help close that gap. Only 5% of dentists are Black women—I want to be part of that change.

Maryama: My dad was injured in the Somali Civil War and has a prosthetic leg, which piqued my interest in medical devices–not as a doctor, but as someone creating technology for patients. And after taking computer science and AP Calc at Brooke, I found I genuinely enjoyed problem-solving through code and math.

What surprised you the most about your time at Brooke? 

Syriana: I’ve been here since kindergarten. At first, I thought the structure was just strict. But now I see it came from care, Brooke prepared me for a world not made for us.

Maryama: I expected strictness, it’s what I heard from my siblings. But over time, I saw how much the teachers cared. The post-grad support especially blew me away–three counselors for 100 students.

How has your identity at Brooke shaped your high school experience?

Syriana: Brooke is intentional about being racially conscious. I’ve always felt seen—through staff, events, and representation. That kind of support isn’t common, and I’m grateful for it.

Maryama: My background made me take school seriously. My parents didn’t go to college and work hard labor jobs, so I’ve always felt the pressure to succeed—and Brooke gave me the tools to do that.

Who inspired or supported you the most in high school?

Syriana: My parents, without question. They were the first in their families to go to college and now support our family in incredible ways. Their sacrifices and successes have always motivated me.

I also think about my grandparents. My grandmother cleaned homes until she couldn’t anymore, and my grandfather worked in a candy factory. They continue to care for our family and inspire me to honor their legacy.

And I can’t forget my two aunts, Carla and Rachel. Carla showed me what it means to be strong and proud, and Rachel modeled what it looks like to be unapologetically Black. They’ve shaped how I carry myself and how I show up in the world.

Maryama: My mom. When we lived far from school, she still drove us in every day, even in freezing weather. She made sure I had time to do my homework and rest, even when it wasn’t easy. Her sacrifices are a big part of why I’m here.

Is there a teacher or mentor at Brooke who had a big impact on you?

Syriana: Ms. Moise is my “school mom.” When I was struggling sophomore year, I emailed her from class—and five minutes later, she was there for me. That moment defined our relationship. She’s supported me ever since, and I know I can always turn to her.

Mr. B, my advisor, has been a constant since freshman year. He gives the best advice—even when I pretend to roll my eyes—and really helped me feel like I could be myself at school.

Ms. Calixte is someone I connected with more recently, but deeply. We both love behind-the-scenes work, and she just gets me. She’s always there for a midday pep talk when I need it.

Maryama: Mr. Mayers. Writing was always a challenge for me, but he helped me improve and grow more confident. His class wasn’t just about academics—it was a place where I felt seen and supported.

Who else would you like to thank or shout out as you graduate?

Maryama: William, the security guard! He sees me late and half-asleep most mornings, but still hypes me up. That energy really matters.

Syriana: So many! Ms. King, I love her. Mr. Lanciault made me love chemistry, which I never expected. Ms. Kerr has been a huge support this year, I honestly think we’ll stay in touch long after graduation.

Ms. Taylor and Ms. Magelby helped me through AP Calc, and Mr. Bowen always made time for meaningful conversations. Mr. Cissi’s history class sparked a deep journey for me around Black identity. I’m so grateful to everyone who’s been part of this chapter.

What advice would you give to incoming freshmen at Brooke?

Syriana: Enjoy freshman year, it’s so special. But also take your academics seriously. That first year really does lay the foundation.

Don’t be afraid to try new things or put yourself out there. Nothing is permanent in high school, so let yourself grow. Take advantage of every opportunity, you never know what might change your life. Love Your Magic did that for me.

Maryama: Time flies. Go to events, hang out with friends, make memories. And create a routine, it helps so much with managing stress. Also: use a planner.

What are your goals beyond college, professionally or personally?

Syriana: Personally, I want to live in tune with myself–not chasing external validation, but focusing on what makes me feel whole. I want a life of freedom–freedom to rest, travel, and enjoy.

Professionally, I want to keep advocating for equity in healthcare and education, especially for Black and Brown girls. 

Maryama: I want to travel, to explore and experience the world. Professionally, I’m still figuring it out, but I want my work to have purpose and impact.

How do you stay connected to your cultural roots while planning for the future?

Syriana: It’s easy to get swept up in the “American Dream,” but I never want to lose touch with where I come from. Time with my grandparents, traditional food, and music keep me grounded. I’m Black, Cape Verdean, and Haitian—and I’m still learning what that all means for me, but I know my family is my anchor.

Maryama: Being the second-oldest of nine, I’ve always had responsibilities. That made me aware of our family’s reality and pushed me to work hard. My parents keep us rooted—my dad speaks only Somali, we go to the mosque, and our community is deeply Somali. Staying connected to our culture is just part of everyday life.