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Why MPUSD » Diana Soto: 'Don't be afraid ... the students and staff are welcoming'

Diana Soto: 'Don't be afraid ... the students and staff are welcoming'

Photo of Diana SotoDiana Soto

Graduating Class of 2024

Monterey High School

 

Even though Monterey High School graduating senior Diana Soto has turned the page on her educational journey in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, her words of wisdom are encouraging and assuring for current and future Toreadors. “Don’t be afraid … the students and staff are very welcoming. I think it’s a great place to grow and learn more about yourself. Definitely would encourage you to pick up something afterschool - the extracurriculars - immerse yourself in the different types of programs that we offer,” Diana said in a recent interview prior to graduating on May 31 from Monterey High.

 

Diana grew up in the district attending the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula in Seaside before spending four years at Monterey High School. “From the four years I’ve been here (Monterey High) I’ve really involved myself in sports. I think it is great to get into the school of community,” she says.

 

 

Extracurricular activities have significantly enriched Diana’s experience at Monterey High, particularly fostering a strong sense of community. Diana found herself participating in the orchestra ensemble, cross country, soccer and track and field. “My extracurriculars after school really made my high school experience much better. If I hadn’t put myself out and did things outside of classes it would be harder for me to feel within the community MHS has built,” she says.

 

Diana even found time to serve as a student board representative on MPUSD’s Board of Education. “I wanted to be an advocate and have a voice … do something for my school. It’s really a great way to have some student input and to raise awareness to things happening at school,” says Diana.

 

Outside of school and extracurricular activities, Diana finds time to take her dogs on morning runs or hike on the weekends. Her family owns Cultural Arts in Cannery Row and Diana has the opportunity to stay in touch with her culture through the selling of traditional Mexican art.