Sophia Lipov
November Senior of the Month

Whether she is acing a test in the classroom, mastering a difficult musical piece for Orchestra or defeating an opponent on the courts, you can be sure that Sophia will be doing it with a smile. Well known for her sharp intellect, competitive spirit and determined character, Sophia is also recognized for her kind heart, easy laugh and occasionally mischievous sense of humor. During her time at SHS, Sophia has made her mark through involvement in many organizations throughout the school, including: Students Helping Others, National Honors Society, WYSE/JETS Competition, Student Council, Jazz Band Ensemble Tri-M and the Girls Varsity Tennis Team. Never content to just be another face in the crowd, Sophia has risen to leadership positions such as Captain, Vice President, Treasurer, Executive Board Member and Concertmaster.
She may make success appear easy, but in her opinion, being involved at this level is “trying and a test of perseverance and dedication”. Hard work does have its rewards, and Sophia is always “happy to see hard work reach its potential”. Her recipe for success is a well balanced blend of self-discipline, careful time management and an “unrelenting conscience that keeps her diligent”.
Her teachers have no shortage of praise regarding their interactions with Sophia:
Mr. Campbell - “She is a real gem; I’d take a dozen Sophia’s in the classroom or on the courts.”
Mr. Stevens – “Sophia is the real-life Tinkerbell. Her bright personality spreads as effortlessly as pixie dust. Her smile can change the atmosphere of a room as if she has waved a magic wand. She floats through the halls as if being carried by fairy wings. She is one of a kind.”
Mrs. Lopez – “Sophia brought a spirit of inquiry into the classroom that significantly enhanced the class environment. Her enthusiasm for learning – and “Mother Russia” -were a wonderful addition to our class.”
Mr. Murmann – “Sophia is a completely unique individual. Her combination of intelligence, humor, and positive outlook in addition to the willingness to help others makes her a very noteworthy person.”
As Sophia prepares to leave Schaumburg High School she sets her sights on new experiences and challenges. Having enjoyed some coursework at Northwestern University this past summer, she would now like to return next fall to study Microbiology and Neurobiology as an undergraduate. Her passion for learning new things, curiosity about the natural world and drive to perform at the highest level will certainly ensure that she will engage and excel when pressed with new academic challenges.