MCHS Valedictorians: Jay Muller

Jay Muller prepares to study business administration in paradise. He remembers years spent in the Friendship Circle and his favorite teacher, Mr. Brown.

Patch: What college are you going to and why did you choose it?

JM: The University of San Diego. USD's strong business administration program was very appealing, along with the beautiful campus, which brings a relaxing vibe to all students. Classes are small so individual attention is prevalent, which better suits my style of learning.

Patch: Where did your passion for business administration come from?

JM: It came from an interest in seeing how the human mind operates in the business world and the manipulation that can occur to benefit the business.

Patch: What are you looking forward to in college?

JM: An amazing education in paradise, along with relaxation and grand opportunities post-graduation.

Patch: What activities were you involved in at Mira Costa?

JM: I played volleyball for all four years and was involved in Friendship Circle since freshman year. I was in PACE since junior year, played freshman football, was in national honors society and the California scholarship federation.

Patch: Which one was your favorite?

JM: Friendship Circle.

Patch: Tell me about the awards and honors you've received.

JM: Two congressional accommodations for service in Friendship Circle, student of the year in 2010, valedictorian, president of friendship circle in 11th and 12th grade, outstanding scholastic achievement award in 9th and 12th grade, and scholar athlete.

Patch: Looking back on your high school years, what was the best thing about Mira Costa? Do you have a favorite memory?

JM: The opportunity to constantly come in contact with friendly, smart, and enjoyable people at Costa each and every day. I will always remember the last day of school sophomore year when Mr. Brown announced he was leaving to move to China to help out in the earthquake recovery operation. He sang "tears in heaven" as his eyes began to swell up.

Patch: What will you be glad to leave behind, either about Costa or about high school in general?

JM: Drama, (being when) people making things way bigger than they are.

Patch: Any advice for students at Mira Costa, especially incoming seniors?

JM: Be yourself, don't try and conform to fit the typical high school stereotype.

Patch: Anyone who inspired you or mentored you during high school? What did they teach you?

JM: Mr. Brown, (he taught me) every day life lessons dealing with respect and mannerism.

Patch: What will you miss most about your community?

JM: The vibe around town. It's a relaxed, very affluent, and beach-ey lifestyle that I truly enjoy. It is safe to walk through the streets no matter what time, and the sun shines 325-plus days a year.

Patch: Any last thoughts before you leave for college?

JM: This is where life, the journey, begins.