Plano East Senior High School 2018 Valedictorian - Rahul Sanjai Hayaran 

GPA

4.6806451

Future Plans

Rahul Sanjai Hayaran plans to attend the University of California, Berkeley in the Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology (M.E.T.) program. He plans to pursue dual-degrees in electrical engineering and computer science (EECS) plus business. "In the future, I hope to effect social change as an entrepreneur."

Activities

Rahul participated in many activities: research, Whiz Quiz, computer science club/coding competitions, History Fair, Spanish Club/Pan-American Student Forum, National Honor Society, debate and MIT Launch.

Most Influential Teacher

Rahul identified Ms. Doris Kottwitz, his eleventh grade Calculus BC teacher, as his most influential teacher. "Her lectures, which incorporated food, (false) proofs and her trademark wit showed me how math can be found in the unlikeliest places. Her honesty and wealth of experience made her a fount of advice—academic or personal. Most of all, though, “Godwitz” taught me that true motivation comes from within, a trait she exemplifies in everything she does."

Advice to Students

"Pursue those things which you are interested in and don’t fret about what you can’t control. Always remember that you can only connect the dots looking backwards. Try to develop a personal connection to whatever you do. If you can find a reason for what you are doing, you will end up being happier, more committed and more successful."