NWN: What is your favorite part about homecoming week?
Lucas: My favorite part of homecoming week is the spirit days, the football game and the actual dance. So honestly, I love it all. It’s one of the best times of the year.
Mercedes: I love seeing everyone show school spirit with their grades at the pep assembly. It’s awesome to see how much everyone appreciates their own grade.
NWN: How did you feel when you won?
Lucas: I was at a loss for words. I gave a terrible answer to the question on stage and I was so embarrassed, but happy to find out that I won.
Mercedes: It was awesome! I wasn’t really expecting it. This is definitely something I will remember my whole life!
NWN: What extra curricular activities are you involved in?
Lucas: I am the co-captain of the varsity boys swimming and water polo teams. I am also in National Honors Society as well as German Honors Society.
Mercedes: Throughout my 4 years years here I think I got involved in almost everything. Sports, theater, charity organizations, academic clubs, you name it!
NWN: What about activities that you’re involved in outside of school?
Lucas: Out of school I work as a lifeguard/swim instructor at Saddle & Cycle Club in the city. I hang out with my friends (usually getting food), and I love watching football.
Mercedes: Even though I recently tore my ACL I still support my FC United club soccer team and will get back into kickboxing as soon as I’m cleared to!
NWN: What are your hobbies?
Lucas: My hobbies include playing video games, participating in fantasy football leagues, and obviously eating.
Mercedes: My favorite hobbies would have to be traveling, drawing, and spending time with my family and friends.
NWN: What makes you fit to be the homecoming king/queen?
Lucas: I think that I’m fit to be king because I have a ton of school spirit and I have plenty of support from my peers.
Mercedes: I think I represent the awesome students here at West. With an upbeat attitude and pride in West always!
NWN: How did you feel while waiting for the winners to be announced?
Lucas: I was pretty nervous on stage but I wasn’t too worried about winning or not winning. Generally, I just enjoyed being up there with a ton of great people.
Mercedes: Both nervous and excited! But happy with whatever outcome.
NWN: Who is your role model at Niles West?
Lucas: My role model at Niles West is my homeroom teacher Mr. Bartista just because he’s a fun guy and sort of reminds me of myself.
Mercedes: Mrs.Bohigian!! She’s SO understanding, basically a GENIUS, and makes the class period FLY BY!
NWN: What advice do you have for the people running next year?
Lucas: My advice would be to just have fun with it. Don’t take it all too seriously, and winning isn’t everything.
Mercedes: Be yourself and have a good time with it!
