Unlike most new students, freshman Nikoleta Baxevanakis wasn’t nervous walking into Niles West High School. She knew that she had friends in most of her classes, and was not only excited, but confident. Baxevanakis works very hard in order to keep up with her honors and AP classes, along with her favorite sports: soccer and basketball. She is also planning on playing in the Homecoming Powder Puff football game.

“I am kind of nervous for powder puff because I don’t really know what the expectations are, but I guess I’ll find out,” Baxevanakis said .

Not only does she plan on trying out for soccer and basketball here at West, but she also plays sports out of school. Baxevanakis has played travel soccer for 6 years, starting as a forward. She also played basketball in middle school at Park View. Sometimes it is hard to manage her time with sports and homework, but she is getting the hang of it.

“Nikoleta is a great friend, and has such an outgoing personality. I don’t know one person who doesn’t like her, because she is truly nice to everyone. Niko is known for having a positive attitude, and her athleticism of course. Overall, she is just a great person,” said good friend, and fellow freshman, Sophia George.

So far, Baxevanakis’ favorite class is AP World History, because her teacher, Angela Tzortzis, is Greek like her.

“From the few days I’ve been to the class, I can tell that it’s going to be difficult, but still fun.”

At home, Baxevanakis speaks Greek, and she also is planning on joining Greek club.

“I’m really excited about it because my sister and cousin are in the club as well,” Baxevanakis said.

One quote that she tries to live by is, “hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.”

“I like this quote because even though I have the talent, I need to put the work in. Without all the work, I won’t be successful,” Baxevanakis said.