Maria “Anny” Rivas is a 17-year-old senior at SBHS, who is a first-time journalism student. Rivas grew up in Venezuela and moved to Florida because of the situation there. Her hobbies are drawing and playing video games. She also likes photography.

 “I took this class because I like to take photos,” said Rivas.

When Rivas was younger, she had been washing her hands when the bathroom sink caved in leaving her with some scars that are still with her today.

"It's actually a pretty funny story to tell now," she said.

Some common misconceptions about Rivas is that many people may mistake her for a male because of the articles of clothing she chooses. Some may mistake her nationality for Mexican when she in fact is not.

"Someone once mistook me for my dad's sister," said Rivas.

Rivas’s favorite toy growing up was a red dinosaur that was gifted to her from her grandfather. She claims it resembles barney. 

“When I was a child I used to play with a red dinosaur that my grandpa gifted to me for my first birthday,” said Rivas.

Maria's favorite motto would be,  “Never back down, Keep moving forward.”

“I live by this motto because it reminds me not to give up, keep on going even when things go wrong,” said Rivas.

The Lion King is her favorite movie because of the story of how Simba gains freedom and respect, and she enjoys the lesson that was taught during the movie.

“I hated it when I was little, found it boring. But I grew to like it when I grew a little older,” said the senior.