Sejal Malhi and Andrew Sanchez were both recognized for volunteering to serve as student representatives on the Ceres School Board during the 2021-22 academic year.

Malhi (Central Valley) and Sanchez (Ceres High) both learned firsthand how Ceres Unified School District operates.

“Sitting on the board opened my eyes to how much larger it is,” Malhi said. “It’s been an amazing experience. I really enjoyed representing the student body at Central Valley. I respect the board members so much and the people behind the scenes. Not to sound biased but I think we’re one of the best districts ever. I’ve seen how much work and effort have been put into students.”

“I became aware of the position the beginning of my junior year,” said Sanchez. “When I got the opportunity to be the student rep senior year, I was excited to do it. I learned how to process information differently, have patience and be a really good public speaker. Seeing how the school district was run was very interesting. I saw how each and every person was important to making the school district very successful.”

Malhi graduated from Central Valley on June 3 as one of the school’s salutatorians. She served as president of the Sikh Honors Service Society, was a member of National Honors Society and California Scholastic Federation and also played volleyball.

 “Education has always been a huge priority in my life,” said Malhi, who earned a cumulative GPA of 4.7. “I’ve always been involved in things like civic engagement. I’ve thrown myself into extra-curricular (activities) that interest me. I’ve made friendships that will be there forever. I’ve been able to find my place in life.”

Malhi plans to major in political science at UCLA with the goal of becoming a lawyer.

“It’s been a dream school of mine since seventh or eighth grade,” she said. “I always thought it was unrealistic. Me getting in is the best experience in my life.”

Sanchez graduated from Ceres High last month where he was president of the Future Medical Professionals Club and vice president of the Interact Club senior year.

“I was involved in eight clubs during my four years,” said Sanchez, who left CHS with a cumulative GPA of 4.0.

Sanchez will attend UC San Diego where he wants to major in business economics.

“I want to get into the luxury, real estate business.”