Sami is a senior in her fifth semester of Journalism and is a columnist for the Wildcat Chronicle. She first joined to try something new and has since developed a passion for storytelling. Her work has been nationally recognized—she is a national award winner in feature writing and a Best of SNO recipient for her photo essay on the annual senior paper drop. Beyond journalism, Sami plays Varsity soccer at WEGO in the spring and competes year-round with her local club team. When she is not on the field or reporting, she enjoys listening to Fleetwood Mac, Zach Bryan, and Jeff Buckley. She also unwinds by watching “Pretty Little Liars.” Looking ahead, Sami hopes to pursue a career in criminal psychology, keeping her curiosity and passion for learning at the forefront of her future.

Miley Pegg is onto her final year on the Chronicle. The last four years she has grown as a writer, expanding from Taylor Swift reviews to sports writing. Her time as a Wildcat has been nothing but wild; serving as many different roles and positions on the Chronicle, writing, photographing sports, managing social media, but she is ready to take the next step. Her future will consist of studying Sports Management and Exercise Science at Judson University. Outside of Journalism, she spends her time listening to music, like Noah Kahan, Lizzy McAlpine, and The Lumineers. While listening to music, she runs on the track team as the designated 400 meter runner and only pole vaulter. Find her listening to “You’re Gonna Go Far” by Noah Kahan all of her senior year.

Ruby Guerrero Lopez is a junior at West Chicago Community High School and no stranger to journalism. Over her high school years, she’s had absolutely no idea what she wants to do after school. Right now, it’s to be a family attorney, but who knows, it could change by tomorrow. A piece she’s most proud of is her “More than grades” in-depth article. In her free time, she likes to say that she studies and works, which is mostly true, although sometimes you’ll catch her watching movies or TV shows over working any day. If you get her talking about Marvel or Harry Potter, you’ll probably never hear the end of it.

Ja’Nyah Villa is a senior in her fourth year of writing for the Chronicle! She started her journalism career during her freshman year, and her experience built up her credentials. She is one of five co-hosts for the Chronicle’s video news segment “What’s the word Wego?” Additionally, she is the co-editor-in-chief for the paper. Ja’Nyah hopes to pursue a career in book publishing or journalism.  She is very driven and dedicated to her schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Outside of Journalism, Ja’Nyah is an active member of Wego Drama and serves on the leadership team as Senior Representative. There, she spends most of her time on stage and has even been part of a state-qualifying play.  Aside from theater, Ja’Nyah is passionate about her music classes. She is a 3-year member of Wego’s Honors Acappella Chamber Choir, where she dedicates hours of her time to practice and go to gigs; She is also a member of the concert choir. Ja’Nyah’s hobbies include reading and listening to music. So far, she has read 8 books in 2025, and her favorite book is “Thunderhead,” by Neal Shusterman. She also enjoys listening to music (while she reads and otherwise)! Her top 5 artists on Spotify are Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, BoyWithUke, Conan Gray, and Lizzy McAlpine. Her favorite genres are pop, punk, rock, and musical theater!

Gabriella Castro (well known as Gaby), follows up her Senior year with the Wildcat Chronicle as she chases deadlines like no tomorrow. A Best of SNO winner and part of the 2024 Pacemaker team, she loves writing, reading, and coloring… pretty much anything to pass the time, she is up for. From writing in cheap crayons to typing on a damaged Chromebook, Gaby has always known her passion flows through documenting. The Chronicle is a community she genuinely loves being a part of (even if it may not be physically noticeable) and hopes to help make a positive change in her final year. She loves getting her hands full with all sorts of hobbies ranging from boxing and running to music and books. Always trying to be positive and directive as she learns through high school. At first glance she may seem tired, crusty, and lazy – but perhaps a second look can help.