Amaya Warren built her high school experience around creativity, communication, and music during her time at Hopkins High School. Through her involvement in band and in social media management, she developed a strong interest in public relations and storytelling.
After graduation, Amaya plans to attend Florida A&M University, where she will major in public relations and continue her involvement in music through the university’s marching band.
What sparked your interest in public relations?
I really got into it because I like making posters and things like that. I’ve led a lot of social media for clubs and my dad’s business. I was the social media manager for Women in Jazz. It was basically just making a couple posts talking about upcoming concerts and things we’ve been working on.
What are your plans after graduation?
I knew I wanted to go to an HBCU, so I chose Florida A&M. It’s the number one HBCU in the country, and they are also well known for their music program, which I also plan to participate in. I hope to join their marching band.
What impact did the Hopkins band program have on your experience?
Ms. Tycast has really made it special. She’s made me want to come to school every day, and all the clubs and classes and things that Hopkins Band has to offer—it’s really made me happy to come to school. When I first got here, I was not super involved. Over the years band made me want to get actively involved. It really helped me build my character and build my creative side.
What advice would you give to incoming high school students?
Get involved. Join way more clubs than you think you’re probably going to be with. Talk to your teachers, advocate for yourself. It’s a lot different in high school versus middle school. Make sure you choose the right friends, stay with the right people, and if you do all those things, it should be pretty cool.