Estancia High School:

Kylie Wilson

Balancing divergent expectations from separated parents was difficult for Kylie Wilson, but the Estancia High School senior came up with a solution that allowed her to continue on her path to medical school.

Kylie has wanted to be a doctor as far back as she can remember. Her dad was a ski patrol officer in Big Bear and through him she came to relish the adrenaline rush of medical emergencies and the satisfaction of healing people, she said.

Because of her dad’s knowledge of science and math, Kylie spent her high school years living with him. He encouraged her to concentrate all of her effort on her studies, while her mom was adamant that she get a job and learn about responsibility and commitment.

“I had to balance my own life with what’s expected from each household,” Kylie said.

Striking a compromise between the two, Kylie worked as a math and science tutor sophomore year.

She also has competed on the surf team each year, for which she has raised thousands of dollars by soliciting donations from car dealerships, restaurants and surf shops.

Graduating as one of Estancia’s valedictorians, Kylie is headed to UCLA as a pre-med student next year.

— Alan Blank