May 14, 2026 - Smithson Valley High School Valedictorian Summer Williams is celebrating four years of hard work and dedication this graduation season. From reminiscing high school memories to the anticipation of new beginnings, read on to learn more about Summer’s Path to Success.
Q) How did you find out you were Valedictorian?
A) It was kind of weird. They pulled me into an office where I was surrounded by all the counselors and administrators. I had an idea of what it was for but I was still anxious, so when I found out I was officially the valedictorian, I was relieved.
Q) How did you celebrate this accomplishment?
A) My dad and I went out for sushi! They were really excited, but they were also not surprised.
Q) Describe the entirety of your high school experience in one word.
A) Eventful.
Q) What is your favorite high school memory?
A) Probably my memories with the wrestling team. We had so much fun at the hotels during competitions, like going to the pool and eating together.
Q) What is one thing you would change about your high school experience?
A) I would have liked to be aware of rank at the start of school. A lot of the choices I made in eighth grade and freshman year to try and experience new things, ended up hurting my gpa. On the flipside, I also would’ve reduced the amount of things I did throughout high school and only focus on the things that made me happy. I definitely overworked myself for no reason.
Q) If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
A) Leonardo Davinci. He was so multifaceted and I feel like I could learn a lot from him. He was also quirky and weird, so it would be entertaining.
Q) What song would you use to describe your high school experience?
A) “Goodmorning,” by Kanye West. The line that stands out to me is “Look at the valedictorian, scared of the future.” I kind of like it because it conveys that there is so much more to life than education, and you need to experience more to be a well rounded person.
Q) Which university will you be attending, and why?
A)I will be attending the University of Texas at Austin for Mechanical Engineering. I recently was accepted into Harvard, but the engineering program is stronger at UT.
Q) What are your plans after graduation?
A) I would like to take a week-long solo vacation to destress. Besides that, I would like to spend time with my friends, enjoy the outdoors, and work on getting my tattoo license!
Q) What's a piece of advice you'd give your younger self?
A) Focus more on what you want and find your worth from within instead of through others.
Thank you Summer Williams for Growing Greatness on your Path to Success!
Photo Descriptions
- Smithson Valley High School Valedictorian Summer Williams graduation photo.
- Smithson Valley High School Valedictorian Summer Williams senior photo.