Anna Park, 17, is a junior at Hinsdale Adventist Academy (HAA) in Hinsdale, Ill. Anna and her parents, Young Hyun and Sung Hee Park, are members of the Schaumburg Korean Church in Schaumburg, Ill.

Anna has been described as brilliant, energetic, and sociable. Her vast interests and talents enable her to be a member of HAA’s yearbook staff, HAA’s Lady Hurricanes basketball and volleyball teams, and HAA’s National Honor Society. She sings in the academy choir and plays the piano, flute, and percussion. Anna also enjoys writing poetry and reading literature.

Anna says she has learned that perseverance is the key to one’s success. She also believes that staying focused is all you need to do to accomplish your goals—no matter what anyone else says.

Richard Garey, Anna’s English teacher, states, “She is very conscientious, regularly goes beyond expectations, and is a positive influence in the school."

It is Anna’s desire to go to college, major in history, and pursue a career in law. "I want to ultimately be happy and at peace with God,” she says.

Joshua Royce Alabata, 17, is a junior at Hinsdale Adventist Academy (HAA). Joshua and his parents, Bing and Eden Alabata, attend the Hinsdale Fil-Am Church.

Joshua is a member of HAA’s National Honor Society and enjoys participating on HAA’s Hurricanes basketball team. He also draws, sings, and plays the drums. Joshua treasures reading the Bible and spending time with his friends.

When asked what the most important thing he has learned from his academy experience is, Joshua replied, “The only way to get through life is by keeping God first and putting Christ in the center, then life will have true meaning.”

It’s no surprise that Joshua’s favorite class is Bible. His teacher, Danaran Frederick, says, “It is Joshua’s desire to do the right thing always. He is humble, patient, and a student of the Word. He understands the meaning of service and is not ashamed or afraid to serve.”

Joshua says his future ambition is “to serve God with the talents He gave me.”