A decade out of high school, the class of 2015 are living proof that ambition, flexibility, and support from teachers and peers can take you further than you ever imagined. We caught up with six grads—each following a unique path—to see where their journeys have led, what inspired them, and what advice they have for today’s students.
Anna Liu: Doctor-in-Training at Mayo Clinic
From Richwoods High School, Anna Liu charted a course straight into medicine, earning a coveted spot in the University of Illinois at Chicago’s BS/MD program. “I knew early on I wanted to be a doctor,” she recalls, crediting both family connections and supportive Richwoods teachers for helping her find opportunities to volunteer and shadow at local hospitals. Now, Anna is a neurology resident at Mayo Clinic, set to pursue a vascular neurology fellowship. She fondly remembers Mr. Urbanc, her math teacher, and his memorable Pi Day celebrations. “Peoria Public Schools gave me so many opportunities—take advantage of them. It’s okay if what you start with isn’t your final path; keep exploring until you find your passion.”
Tyler Tran: From Engineering to Business Consulting
Tyler Tran also graduated from Richwoods, heading to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign for mechanical engineering. Yet, after a stint as a design engineer, Tyler pivoted into business consulting in Chicago, where he’s now a manager helping companies implement advanced financial technologies. He credits Mr. Garrison (physics) and Mr. Baumgardner (chemistry) for sparking his love of STEM, but emphasizes the importance of relationships: “You can’t plan for everything. The people you surround yourself with will have a profound impact on your life. Don’t worry if your journey takes unexpected turns—find what you enjoy and build your network.”
Joseph Gamble: Innovating at Boeing in Seattle
Joseph Gamble’s passion for science and technology led him from Richwoods to Iowa State (electrical engineering), then to research and design at Boeing in Seattle. With a master’s from the University of Washington, he now works on ship design for space and extreme environments—a role he can’t discuss in detail due to confidentiality. Joseph says the hardest class he ever took was AP English with Ms. Mo at Richwoods, even after years of college and graduate school. He also praises AP Physics as a great foundation. “Take on challenges, even outside your comfort zone,” he urges. “And remember, where you end up might be completely different from where you planned, but that’s part of the adventure.”
Kajal Sachdev: A Global Perspective in Medicine
After Richwoods, Kajal Sachdev pursued biology and psychology at UIC, then earned a Fulbright for a master’s in legal psychology in the Netherlands before returning for medical school. Immersing herself in another culture for a year was transformative: “It taught me humility and adaptability,” she notes. Kajal credits her AP Calculus teacher, Mrs. Eden, for critical college and scholarship guidance. “High school is a time to try new things and figure out what excites you. You won’t love every subject, but challenge yourself to find something interesting about each one. That curiosity will serve you well.” Kajal also led the Richwoods flags team, learning discipline, teamwork, and leadership that still help her today.
Ashley Allen: Advocacy and Social Work
Manual High grad Ashley Allen’s path led from ICC to a social work degree at Bradley. After working with children at Family Core, she now advocates for adults with autism through Goodwill’s Beyond Barriers program. The role is a perfect fit for her passion for helping others. Ashley credits her math teacher, Ms. Wendell, for believing in her despite academic struggles: “She never gave up on me. That support made a huge difference.” Ashley’s message: “Don’t give up, even if you can’t see how things will turn out. Sometimes you have to let life unfold on its own. Stay steady, and you’ll end up where you’re meant to be.”
Words for Today’s Students
The Class of 2015 wants you to know:
Your path will change, and that’s okay.
Relationships—with teachers and peers—matter as much as academics.
Take advantage of every opportunity, and don’t fear trying new things.
Find at least one thing you enjoy in every subject; it can make all the difference.
Don’t give up, even when the future feels uncertain.
Ten years ago, these grads were sitting in your seats, unsure of what the next decade would bring. Their advice and experiences show that with curiosity, support, and persistence, you can build a future beyond your wildest dreams.