For senior Emlee Yonga, high school has been a journey of growth, marked by leadership, service and the pursuit of ambitious goals. Transferring to CPHS as a sophomore, she faced new challenges, but quickly found her footing through both academics and extracurricular involvement.

Emlee currently serves as Secretary of HOSA and Preseason Captain of the girls’ soccer team. She is also a member of National Honor Society, Science NHS, No Place for Hate, UIL English Spelling, the Investment Club, Hope Squad, track and cross country. But Emlee’s story didn’t begin at CPHS. She recalls that moving to Texas was a huge shift—not just in scenery, but in culture, routine and expectations.

“I’ve learned the importance of balance,” Yonga said. “Being involved in so many different activities taught me how to manage my time but also how to be present in each moment. I didn’t want to just show up—I wanted to give my best.”

According to Yonga, the size of CPHS felt overwhelming at first and her naturally reserved personality made things more challenging. Over time, she had said that she leaned into the process, building friendships and discovering that vulnerability can be a doorway to connection.

“I’ve always been a shy person and Texas was a complete switch for me and my family,” Yonga said. “It took some getting used to, but I’m really thankful for all the friends I’ve made here.”

Yonga has been a three-year member of the girls’ soccer team, earning the role of JV Captain as a junior and leading in her senior season. She’s also competed in track throughout all three years and cross country for the first time this year.

“My favorite memory was our girls soccer team winning state for the first time in school history,” Yonga said. “The entire season was a blast growing closer with the underclassmen and my fellow seniors. It was a truly unmatched way to end the season.”

Outside of sports, one project stood out to her: the HOSA MRC Partnership. Through the project, she helped organize seminars at elementary schools, packed emergency city trailers and created cards for first responders. Her team placed fifth in the competition.

“We ended up placing fifth in our competition, which was amazing,” she said. “But more than that, it showed me how much I enjoy serving my community. It’s something I want to keep doing in the future.”

Throughout her high school experience, Yonga said her biggest motivation has been her family. She hopes to set an example for her siblings and honor the sacrifices her parents have made.

“I want to set an example for my siblings and take advantage of all the opportunities my parents have afforded me,” Yonga said. “I couldn’t thank them enough for their impact in my life.”

Academically, Yonga said she has always been drawn to English, but this year, science has taken the lead.

“AP Biology and Anatomy have been my favorite classes,” Yonga said. “I’ve explored aspects of the world and these topics that I’ve grown very interested in. Questions that I’ve acquired that are left unanswered in my high school classes are now stimulating my desire to pursue these topics in college.”

After graduation, Yonga plans to attend ACC for a year before transferring to either the University of Texas at Austin or Texas A&M to study pre-med. Her long-term goal is to become an oncologist or radiologist.

“I’ll probably still be in school in 10 years,” she said. “but hopefully on the home stretch and graduating with a PhD. I’m excited to pursue more than just a bachelor’s in college. I have high goals for myself and I know that I can reach these goals.”

As she leaves CPHS, Yonga hopes others will remember that leadership can take many forms. For her, it looked like stepping outside her comfort zone, growing through new experiences and staying committed to her purpose.

“Don’t just collect experiences,” Yonga said. “Tailor them to be impactful to you. It’s okay to say no. Always choose quality over quantity in friendships, activities and even your classes. The most memorable moments are the ones you truly enjoy.”