Dec. 6, 2023, Bailey Pellegrini (‘24) was given the Student Optimist of the Month Award. With her sunny disposition and inviting personality, it was no shock she was recognized.
“Honestly, it was entirely unexpected because I didn’t know that award existed. I was incredibly grateful though. I felt acknowledged by the faculty and I was glad to know that I leave a positive impression on people,” Bailey (‘24) explained.
However, anyone who knows Bailey wasn’t surprised by the award.
“I’ve known Bailey since eighth grade, and she’s always been a very sweet, positive person. She likes to get involved in a lot of different things, and she’s able to make friends with just about anyone. Her positive attitude never fails to cheer me up, and she always inspires me to work hard and stay positive.” Kelly Grady (’24) said.
Although senior year can be inevitably stressful, Bailey never fails to keep a positive attitude and explains her motivations behind it.
“Of course I can’t be happy all day everyday because things happen and that’s just the way life is. I try to be the joyful and inspiring person to others that I wish I had when growing up,” she said.
One way Bailey manages to create such an impact on the community is by staying involved. Around the school, you can find her participating in a broad range of activities.
“I’m an officer of the National Honor Society and the International Thespian Society. I am involved with several clubs such as Theatre, Leo Club, Environmental Club as well as past ones which were discontinued: Multicultural Club and Student Library Advisory.” Bailey said.
However, when asked about her favorite, Theatre was the immediate response.
“The theater has always been my safe space. All of my family members were involved in the arts so it was only natural that I took it up as well. They are always so welcoming of people and all their differences,” Bailey explained.
Not only is the theater community welcoming to Bailey, but she brings joy to them as well.
“Just being around her really helped me feel comfortable being in the theater department, especially because it was my first production and I was in a leadership position,” Kaitlyn Halepaska (‘25) said.
On a more personal note, Bailey gives advice to her fellow students who may be struggling to keep an uplifting outlook on things as we approach the end of the year.
“The first thing that comes to mind is the saying, ‘strangers are just friends you haven’t met yet.’ I would recommend greeting people with a smile even if you aren’t that close to them because you never know how that interaction will be remembered by them; it could be the highlight of their day because you approached them with an upbeat attitude,” Bailey noted.
Adding onto this, Bailey emphasized that optimism starts with how you treat others.
“Treating everyone with respect regardless of your connection will make people want to be around you. Surround yourself with people that build you up and celebrate your achievements,” Bailey explained.
Not only is it important to surround yourself with people that lift you up, Bailey explained that taking time for yourself is just as crucial.
“Remember that it’s always okay to take some personal time to take care of yourself. You are never expected to give 100% everyday” Bailey said.
Ending the interview, Bailey gives her final piece of advice, encouraging those to not stress over what they can’t control.
“It may not seem like it now, but the problems you are facing are only temporary. Don’t waste your time stressing over things that you won’t remember a month from now,” Bailey concluded.
