Marisa Busquets, Class of 2018
Marisa Busquets, Class of 2018, joined the Ellis community for her senior year and was welcomed into the Ellis fold immediately upon her arrival. During her time at Ellis, Marisa tapped into her creative side and tried her hand at ceramics—making, creating, and throwing alongside her classmates in the studio and at Raku, the annual clay firing celebration at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. After graduation, Marisa will attend Wake Forest University in North Carolina where she plans to study psychology and Spanish.
How has your Ellis education impacted you? What do you think is special about attending a school like Ellis?
I’ve been to three schools in my life. I feel that I have learned more in this one year at Ellis than I have in any other year in a different school. I am truly grateful to have had an Ellis education this year. Ellis is special because you learn so much while making such amazing connections with your teachers and peers.
Is there a teacher or teachers at Ellis who have had a particularly strong influence on you?
My advisors, Ms. Holtgraver and Mr. Svensson, really helped with my transition. I had known Mr. Svensson for a number of years prior to going to Ellis, so it was great to see a friendly face those first couple weeks when everything was so new. Ms. Holtgraver also helped with my transition because she always made herself available to meet and sort things out.
What is your favorite Ellis tradition?
This year I have been exposed to so many Ellis traditions that have been pleasantly surprising. However, my favorite one is Ellis Idol. I love that Ellis knows how to balance work and fun. I have never been to a school that values such amazing, fun traditions.
What is your best Ellis memory?
My best Ellis memory was my first day. Everyone was so welcoming to me even though I was a brand new senior. I’ve never been in such a warm, welcoming environment.
How do you think your Ellis education has prepared you for your next chapter?
Although I have only been here for one year, my education at Ellis has taught me that even when things are difficult, everything can work out if you are determined and willing to work through changes. Ellis is truly a unique place with some of the most amazing people I have ever met.
What do you plan to study in college? Why?
I am planning to study Psychology and Spanish in college. My dad is from Puerto Rico, so the Spanish language and culture has been a large part of my life. I want to continue exploring it in college. I also am very interested in promoting mental health awareness and believe that those with mental disorders need to be treated. I have always been interested in the brain and how it works. I hope to continue my studies of these two topics in college.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself as a psychologist utilizing both English and Spanish to see more people who are in need of behavioral health care.
I see myself as a psychologist utilizing both English and Spanish to see more people who are in need of behavioral health care.
What are you involved with outside of Ellis?
Outside of Ellis, I row on a crew team which has been really amazing. I also volunteer at Animals Friends with cats and rabbits, which I love.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Intelligent. Kind. Determined.
What is the last book you read?
The last book I read was It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini, which is an interesting combination of humorous, heartbreaking, and uplifting themes. It’s a great read.
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