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The class valedictorian, Peggy is graduating with a 4.9 GPA. This fall, she will attend Ivy League Princeton University to study electrical and computer engineering. A student with great interest in artificial intelligence research, Peggy aspires to earn a doctorate, address AI bias, and create STEM opportunities in underserved communities.

Throughout high school, Peggy accumulated numerous academic and athletic accolades at the state and national levels, interned with aerospace and defense manufacturer Lockheed Martin, served as president of the Mark Cuban AI Ambassadors, and as YWLA National Honors Society vice president. Peggy also participated in local and national robotics and engineer clubs and civic organizations.

The team captain of the YWLA track and field squad, Peggy made three appearances at the state finals and was named to the Academic All-State First Team for Track and Field.

WLA’s 2024 class salutatorian is headed to Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in civil engineering. She has career aspirations to specialize in environmental engineering or transportation, making a positive impact on the community in the construction industry.   

During her high school career, Karina earned numerous academic accolades, finishing as a finalist and semifinalist for prestigious national scholarship awards including QuestBridge National College Match and The Gates Scholarship, respectively. At YWLA, Karina participated in Student Council, the National Honor Society, and Yearbook Club. Her extracurricular activities included serving as a mentor, participating in community service, and robotics competitions.