By Cameron Douglas
In the summer before her seventh grade, Jeehee Cho moved from Pleasant Grove, Utah, to Pacific Grove, California. Since then, her academic and athletic achievements have accelerated to the honor of class Valedictorian for 2009. Jeehee took time out from her busy schedule to stop in and chat with Cedar Street Times.
CST: What motivates you?
CHO: Education is a big part of the Korean culture. My dad came to the U.S. to go to graduate school at Brigham Young University, and decided to stay because there are so many educational opportunities in this country. He wanted his children to have that. Education has been a really big part of our family. My parents have always supported me through it. They’ve never pressured me. They just told me to do my best. Going off to college, I take that same idea. I want to gain a better understanding of everything that’s going on. I want to have enough education to educate my children as well.
CST: Are you thinking of home schooling at some point?
CHO: Not necessarily. A lot of people don’t value the occupation of stay-at-home mom. When I was young, my mom did that, and I think it really helped my education. I’m not saying I don’t want a career. After I pursue a career and get married, if I have kids, then I plan on becoming a stay-at-home mom. As a parent, I should be able to help my kids with their education.
CST: What teachers have made the most positive impressions on you, and why?
CHO: I would have to say, Mrs. Coulter. She was my honors English teacher in my freshman year. She’s the one who taught me how to write. Even after she retired, she took more English classes, more poetry classes, always seeking to broaden her knowledge. That’s something I admire.
In seventh and eighth grade, I had a science teacher named Mr. Osborne. He made science fun. Another one would have to be my history teacher, Mr. Powers. He really helped me learn the material thoroughly.
CST: Tell us about Hot Chocolate Party Productions.
CHO: Michael Yanoska is one of my really good friends, and he’s the founder of that group. We make YouTube videos showing the PGHS version of the TV show, “The Office.” Michael does all the script writing. It’s a lot of fun! I play the role of Kelly. She’s kind of a side character.
CST: What changes would you like to see in Pacific Grove?
CHO: I feel that young people here – myself included – don’t really know what’s going on in the world. If we can all open our eyes and see what’s happening around us and become more involved, I think we’ll make Pacific Grove a little better.
Jeehee Cho will be going on to Brigham Young University, where her older sister is a student. Jeehee, a four-year varsity cheerleader, will begin her studies in Exercise Science. Congratulations, and best of luck to this year’s Valedictorian!
