Derin Creates: Meet the First Member of our Prep Elite Class of 2019

As part of our annual Prep Elite feature, we chatted with nine local high school seniors about their hopes, dreams and favorite high school memories. Here, check out our convo with Woodbury High School senior Derin Badewa, whose combination of creativity and analytical thinking will take him far.

Derin Badewa
Woodbury High School

If you were running for  president, who would you choose as your running mate?
I would want Tyler, the Creator as my running mate, because he will never fail to make me laugh. We can make great music together and we can craft our own brand.

What sets you apart from your peers?
I think my distinctive culture sets me apart. It’s shaped my intentions and the outlook I have on life every day.

If you could create one mandatory class for future seniors, what would it be?
I’d make coding mandatory for future seniors—it’s the language of the future.

What are your plans after high school?
My dream job is to become a cardiologist. My plans after high school are to attend Johns Hopkins, attend their medical school program ... and finally become a working cardiologist, preferably in California.

Which teacher has made the biggest impact on you?
Mrs. Schumacher, because of her ability to teach material in a caring and understanding manner. 

Read about the rest of this year’s Prep Elite students here.