Hi, I’m Anika

Passionate storyteller, community advocate and endurance athlete, I connect people through journalism, civic engagement, and shared experiences. At Palo Alto High School I pursue the diverse AP Capstone, Social Justice, and Design, Visual & Media Arts Pathways while maintaining a 4.0/4.33 GPA.

As a teen advisor to local government, I help adults in our community understand how my generation views political divides, climate change, rising mental and physical health issues, social and economic inequalities, and evolving social norms. I am committed to promoting teen access to quick, easy, and reliable news sources so that we can grow into active and engaged voters.

In my free time, you can find me cycling or rowing, writing an article or poem, or enjoying a book with my three cats.

Journalism & Storytelling

I lead our award-winning Arts and Culture magazine, cultivating a crossroad for diverse perspectives on controversial and unheard cultural topics. As a leader and writer, I have helped the magazine earn top honors, including NSPA Best of Show and CSPA Gold Crown, as well as winning multiple individual story awards, including first place for CSPA N12 Personality Profile. My investigative stories explore social justice and cultural identity, and I mentor emerging writers and designers with a collaborative approach that nurtures individual growth and collective creativity.

Exploring the human experience through verse, featured in Auroras and Blossoms PoArtMo Anthology (2023) and A Celebration of Poets (2021, 2018).

Civic Engagement & Leadership

I spearheaded a 380-mile charity bike ride and raised $6,500 from 70+ supporters to fund college dreams for low-income students at my high school. I also advise the Board on youth perspectives and lead PR efforts to bridge educational equity gaps.

Conceptualized and developed a web app combating single-issue voting, helping 1,200+ users align candidates with policy priorities. Crafted nuanced questions on complex political issues, demonstrating skills in research, data interpretation, and clear communication. Secured pro-bono support, presented findings to political activists and published data for researchers.

Amplifying youth voices in our local government, I plan and facilitate community outreach events to connect local teens with the community and get my peers more interested and involved in local government.

Ignited passion for journalism & speech and debate amongst local middle schoolers.

Athletics

Finding rhythm in teamwork, I helped my teams reach Youth Nationals in 2022, 2023, and 2024. I dedicate 20+ hours weekly to training, finding rhythm with my teammates while enjoying focus and discipline. Awarded Coaches Choice, 2021.

I find inner strength on long-distance rides, summiting mountain passes and exploring California’s coastal backroads.

Academic Awards

Palo Alto High School​

Physics Department Award

Rachel Austin Award for Academic Excellence, Honors Physics, 2024

Palo Alto High School​

AP Seminar

Spirit of AP Seminar, 2024

Palo Alto High School​

Chemistry Department Award

Rachel Austin Award for Academic Excellence, Honors Chemistry, 2024

Palo Alto High School​

Speech & Debate Team

Energizer Bunny, 2023

Devil’s Advocate, 2022