Balancing a social life, school, and clubs is a difficult task for many, but for junior Sabrina Islamaj, this is not a challenging task. Islamaj is the president of two clubs, Junior Cabinet and Albanian Club, and she still finds time to do the things she loves.

“I am a first-generation Albanian American, and I have two sisters, older and younger. An ideal future for me looks like attending a school close to home. I have passions and interests in engineering and data analysis which I hope to pursue throughout my life. I hope in the near future I continue to be surrounded by family and friends who love and support me. Maybe I’ll have a Dalmatian too,” said Islamaj.

Before this year, the Albanian club never existed until Islamaj pushed for it to be created. There are many reasons for one to start a club for Islamaj she says.

“What inspired me to start Albanian Club was I really wanted a place where I could connect with people. Being able to speak a language you don’t hear every day at school with your peers is a heartwarming feeling. We are all able to bond over tradition, family, food, and connect with each other as Albanian Americans,” Islamaj said.

Running and creating a club is a challenging task and can be very time-consuming. But for Islamaj, she strives to join more clubs and looks for more leadership positions. In fact, she even ran for and won Junior Cabinet President.

“I ran for the Junior Cabinet President position this year because I believe that there is no limit you can put on yourself. I had an equal shot at winning as everyone else, so it was even more of an accomplishment when I won. Also, I always believe in trying to do something even though you may fail because it’s better than never trying in the first place. Not only that, but I am a natural leader, and I have a passion for communicating with others as well as connecting with people which was a perfect skill to have for this election. I always say, ‘there is no one better qualified than the best version of yourself,'” said Islamaj.

Islamaj is the co-president of Chemistry Club, an EXEC, board member for German Club, a homeroom mentor, and part of Seminar for Scholars. Throughout the school year, she can be found at multiple Women in STEM events at Northwestern University.

Although Islamaj is very school orientated, she expresses many interests outside of her life at school.

“Some of my favorite hobbies include swimming at the beach, reading, practicing yoga, baking, and dancing. Even though I’m not very good at it, it’s still a fun activity to do. I also love binge-watching shows, some of my favorites are Schitt’s Creek, Gilmore Girls, Gossip Girl, and You. As for movies, my current obsession is Twilight, team Edward forever,” said Islamaj.

Many people think fondly of Islamaj, and her accomplishments.

“[She is] The most hardworking and determined person you’ll ever meet. When she dreams of something she’ll make sure it becomes a reality. You would think someone with all these traits would be a mean and strict person, but she is the nicest person I’ve ever known, and she’s always willing to help even if she has her own things to do,” said junior Rayan Rahmani.

“Sabrina is such a bright soul. She is filled with humor and is such a fun person to be around. I admire how she is able to manage all her extracurriculars while also maintaining great grades,” said junior Mariella Khoshaba.