Emily Huerta, a senior at South High School, has spent all four years of her high school journey at this school. Her admiration for Andy’s Attic, a community service group, is clear in her excited answers to a series of questions about her journey.

Emily’s introduction to Andy’s Attic was unexpected. She recalls, “What got me into Andy’s Attic is a funny story. I joined because Mr. Boyle, my freshman AVID teacher, became the director of Andy’s Attic near the end of the year. He’s really the best, and he is what got me out there and more social! I was so bored in a class that did not give me that ‘I want to be there’ feel, and trust me, I did not want to be in school most days. So I ended up going down there after finishing my work in AVID with my friend Karla!”

Her commitment to Andy’s Attic has been strong. Emily explains, “I decided to rejoin every year because the feeling of just knowing you can help someone out there by doing this little thing is awesome. I’ve met so many wonderful people while working down there; it always will bring me back.”

Choosing style for those in need is Emily’s favorite part of her role. She shares, “My favorite part of Andy’s Attic is picking things out for those people in need and choosing their style from an order request.” The mixed nature of donations at Andy’s Attic has led to some surprising finds. Emily recounts, “The strangest thing I’ve found in Andy’s Attic is probably just random furniture people donate!”

When it comes to tasks, Emily prefers filling orders over folding them. She admits, “I would rather fill 20 baby orders instead of folding them—but don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind folding either. It’s fun to pick things out for the little ones out there.”

Helping others is a deep experience for Emily. She describes it as, “an indescribable feeling. Knowing you can help someone so much, one bag at a time, is crazy! It feels good to do good.”

For incoming freshmen, Emily offers wise advice: “My advice for upcoming freshmen is to just show up to school. I know it’s corny to say it goes by fast, but it truly does, so enjoy every part of it. There are so many people around to support you.”

Reflecting on her first encounter with Andy’s Attic, Emily shares a light-hearted memory: “The first time I had Andy’s Attic was so silly. Watching who was once my AVID teacher help out around in a place I didn’t know was cool! Got to help and understand what went down.”

Among her cherished memories, Emily highlights her time with Mr. Boyle. She fondly remembers, “My favorite memory has to be any memory with Mr. Boyle. He’s the funniest and greatest teacher you’ll meet. His corny dad jokes will always be a favorite.”

In closing, Emily encourages others to join the cause: “Join Andy’s Attic! Come help your community!” Her admiration and excitement serve as an inspiring example of the impact of community service.