Character Spotlight: HTA Senior Royce Ariola

I’ve been a student at HTA since 5th grade, and I can honestly say that HTA has made a difference in my life. During my junior year Advisory, we had these projects called “Genius Hour” projects. The point of the Genius Hour projects was to encourage students to explore their passion and interests, so for my project I decided to learn how to make a beat. When I first started, I had no idea what to do. I didn’t know where to start. However I researched and watched videos and taught myself how to make a song. I didn’t even know how to make a basic chord at the time! 

When I think of character, I think about how a person might handle certain difficult situations or how a person reacts to challenges. HTA has helped me build character by teaching me more about responsibility and perseverance through projects like the Genius Hour project. Since HTA has a lot of flexibility built in, it could be easy fall behind but it is also easy to catch up again because our teachers are committed and really want to teach students rather than just going through the motions. I can tell they care deeply for their student and hope to make an impact on their lives.

​A lot of the things that my teachers have taught me can be applied to real life.  Mr. Glasser and Mr. Carvalho have really taught me that we won’t always get second chances, so I need to do my very best on the first try. Another one of my teachers Mr. Weida taught me the importance of time management and understanding what is really important in life.

​My parents are so happy that I am an HTA student. I know they have peace of mind because they know I am growing academically and growing personally, too. After graduating from HTA, I envision myself going to college for music producing. I am a little scared going into this new part of my life but I do feel confident because I know that HTA has done a good job preparing me for college and independence.

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