By: Ainsley Northrop and Nelson Kramer

People and Local News Editor

An artsy and creative individual, senior Kathy Cao is an integral part of the Los Gatos High School community. Whether singing in choir, expressing herself through art and fashion, delving into philosophy, or excelling in her classes, Cao brings a unique energy and dedication to whatever she does.

Cao joined LGHS choir her sophomore year and explained, “I’ve loved singing since I was literally three or four years old…That’s why I am in choir so I can actually sing, but I don’t have to take time out of school or spend money on vocal lessons.” Through choir, Cao has proved her leadership skills, running sectionals for the altos while simultaneously serving as the president of LGHS’ LeGatos Acapella Club. Cao particularly loves tackling unique pieces, referencing her favorite style as “the gothic little church choir music.” 

Outside of choir, Cao expresses herself through art and fashion. Cao prides herself on sporting a stylish, unique outfit every day. She reasoned, “It’s just something I really love and I love exploring different styles…nothing is too unconventional or crazy in terms of fashion for me.” And when it comes to art, Cao refers to her style as “flowy and organic,” consisting mostly of sketches. For Cao, art is a way she can break free from the rigid rules of life and be herself. She added, “I have such rigid expectations [for myself] in other areas of my life…I’m kind of a perfectionist. [But], for art, it’s like I am the opposite…It’s a space where I can actually not follow rules and have high expectations.”

Cao also finds herself having a genuine interest in philosophy. She is currently taking the school’s philosophy course and even lists it as one of her favorite classes. Along with being enrolled in the class, Cao heads the Philosophy club. Despite being less active in the club recently due to the stresses of senior year, Cao is still devoted to the subject as she debates pursuing some level of philosophy in college. When asked about her favorite philosophical topic, Cao responded, “I like talking about existentialism; like [the philosopher] Camus. I feel like I agree with his ideas, and obviously the more classic philosophers like Aristotle. He has a lot of great teachings that I learned a lot from.”

Cao aspires to be a journalist one day; She is going to be attending Barnard College in the fall where she will be surrounded by the culture of New York City, giving her a great opportunity to explore any type of journalism. Currently, Cao has decided to major in psychology and comments on how it’s a broad topic, leaving plenty of room for self discovery. When asked about her interest in journalism Cao commented, “I think I want to be able to interview people, and do something that relates to connecting with other people.”