Back in early September of 2014, the year began with hushed murmurs and discreet whispers about a new kid in town—well, not exactly. Word on the street filled itself with Andrew Nguyen’s name, a transfer student from Rancho Alamitos High School, and the amusing circumstance that he would be attending Bolsa Grande High School. Before anything, his name sparked our interests and guided our pointing fingers. Now, seven months later, Andrew Nguyen has become one of the most involved and well-loved students here on campus.
Prior to his transfer here, Andrew remained doubtful to the idea of coming to our school, “I honestly didn’t know what else to expect and I was scared. I expected to feel lonely and Rancho-sick.”
Although his skeptical perception of attending a new high school, Andrew did not cease to grasp the numerous opportunities that were placed in his hands. The notorious stereotype of shy and reluctant transfer students slowly crumbled under Andrew’s heel as he stepped foot into Choir, Key Club, Lip Dub, and even Mr. Bolsa. As the year progressed, he impressively took it one step further with his role in Concert Choir, as Key Club’s Spirit Chair, and as our one and only Gluteus Maximus at Mr. Bolsa.
For being a new Rancho-species, he has certainly found his niche among our Matadors. Seemingly, with a little smile and some Yo-yo tricks, one can eliminate all the barriers of expectation for transfer students. His karate kicks, WHACHA! noises, “Mr. Avichest” references to Mr. Aviles, and crop top outfit-of-the-days have all made it to the bottom of our hearts.
One final message from Andrew Nguyen himself: “If you don’t treat eggs with care, they might just crack and yolk may spill all over your shoes. Like eggs, people need to be treated with care. I met a lot of amazing people at Bolsa. Thanks for accepting me, guys, and thanks to the teachers for showing me mercy.”
When viewed in retrospection, Andrew’s ease-of-heart within the transferring process is a proclamation. Transfer students don’t always have to be the invading species. Furthermore, Andrew has decided to stay one more year as a senior at Bolsa Grande High School for the upcoming 2015 school year. Being the new kid isn’t so bad after all.
So be gracious, put on that florescent grin, and adapt to your new environment. Everything will be fine.