Andrew Nguyen (12) is a senior at Yorba Linda High School who goes above and beyond inside as well as outside of school. With a driven attitude, friendly personality, and will to learn, Andrew has proven to be an excellent student at our school. In fact, he has been part of our school’s sinfonia, the highest level of orchestra, since freshman year as well as our business program.

Being a part of YLHS’s sinfonia is a huge responsibility, something that requires Andrew to be at school at 6am everyday. This year he has earned first chair, meaning that he is the most elite violin player in the sinfonia, therefore giving him the right to lead his section. Andrew spends between 15-20 hours of his time per week solely dedicated to practicing violin in order to continue his talent and skill. Ever since he was in 3rd grade Andrew has expressed his love for the violin through performances in venues such as Disneyland, Richard Nixon Library, and The Walter Pyramid at Long Beach State University. Andrew says that “playing the violin gives me a sense of relaxation and when you play the right notes, everything just comes together to make a beautiful tune. It also helps me take my mind off the stressful things life brings.” 

As well as playing the violin, Andrew has also been a part of our school’s well known business program. He recently earned Employee of the Month by spending countless hours both in and outside of school, to help better the Mustang Market. Following the footsteps of his brother, Andrew hopes one day to pursue a career focused on business.

Andrew is also very academically driven as he has been enrolled in various honors and AP classes throughout his high school career thus far. One class in particular, that is deemed to be difficult and challenging for many students, that Andrew excelled in was AP Lang. Andrew’s determination has kept him with impressive grades and a great GPA.  He finds a balance for school through his friends which he says are “an amazing support system and make me want to strive to do better.” 

When he’s not busy with school and violin practice, Andrew loves hanging out with friends or family as a way to de-stress. He also takes pleasure in going to the movies, watching tennis matches, and volunteering at the hospital. Andrew also volunteers in his church’s orchestra at St. Martin de Porres, which he has attended ever since he was born and enjoys participating in the annual Oktoberfest.  

As he approaches his senior year he hopes to build even stronger relationships, excel in his academics, and start applying to colleges where he can have the opportunity to grow as a student.