NILES — With high school graduation on the horizon for area schools, the top students of their graduating class were announced recently. To showcase these students and their hard work and talent, they completed a questionnaire and offered some advice to incoming freshman. Starting with Niles High School students, the following students are the first to be featured.

Kimberly West

Age: 17

GPA: 4.0667

City of residency: Niles

1. How does it feel to be listed as one of Niles Top 10?

Ever since I was a freshman, it was my dream to graduate in the Top 10, so actually achieving that feels like a dream come true.

2. How do you feel you earned the title?

Earning this title was everything but easy. I had to stay diligent with my work and put forth consistent effort in each subject.

3. What college, trade school or future endeavor do you plan on pursuing after you graduate? If you will attend a college or trade school what do you plan on studying and why?

I am currently planning on attending Michigan State University where I will be studying to become a Civil Rights lawyer. I chose this area of law because it’s my goal to evoke positive change in any way I can.

4. What’s your advice to next year’s freshman?

My advice to them would be to remember to have fun, but also keep in mind that the purpose of high school is for you to graduate and make your mark on the world, so make these four years count.

5. What was your favorite part of your high school career?

My favorite part of high school is all of the great memories I’ve made and great people I’ve met through being involved in the band.

6. Outside of school what are some other accomplishments you are proud of achieving?

I am very honored to say that I am able to represent the city of Niles as Miss Niles 2018.

Accomplishing this has made me even more appreciative of the place I call home.