Valerie Wu, an incoming senior at Presentation High School in San Jose, is a self-proclaimed “Gossip Girl” addict. She has watched all six seasons of it three times. That led her to fall in love with New York, where “Gossip Girl” takes place, and to set her sights on attending Columbia University there. After college, Valerie plans to work as a diplomat or in politics. She sees politics as a way to give people who aren’t being heard a voice. Valerie is passionate about social justice, which led her to become an officer for a social justice club and a feminist club at her school. She has been recognized for her social justice achievements with her school’s Frederick Douglass & Susan B. Anthony Award, giving her her the opportunity to receive a $10,000 scholarship if she attends the University of Rochester.

By Anahi Del Castillo