Ashes & Sparks recently landed an exclusive interview with Trinity freshman Tyler C., 7HS class of 2024. He discusses the Unknown Prophecies, his transition to high school, and more…

A&S: First things first, Tyler. You played an integral role in the Unknown Prophecies’ dominant 2023-2024 House Cup campaign. How does it feel to have left that kind of legacy?

Tyler: It feels great! During my last year at Seven Hills, I knew I had to make an impact, and dominating the House Cup was the best way to cement my legacy. Looking back, I’m proud that I contributed to such a major victory for the Prophecies. It’s a constant reminder that the Prophecies are the superior house—none of the others even come close.

A&S: Indeed, the echoes of that victory are still reverberating. Full disclosure, however:  the House Cup is currently very close, as tight as it’s ever been this late in the year, and the Prophecies aren’t in first. Any advice for those seeking to separate themselves from the pack?

Tyler: The best advice I can give is to step up and take advantage of leadership opportunities. If you want to stand out, become a leader. It might seem like a big responsibility at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Those who want to make an impact should volunteer often and compete in as many events as possible… This advice, of course, is only for the Prophecies.

A&S: You’re a semester into high school. How’s that going? 

Tyler: Honestly, high school is going really well. A lot of my classmates from Seven Hills also came to Trinity, which made the transition easier—I already had friends I could trust and rely on. High school gives me more freedom and responsibility, which makes it different from my time at Seven Hills. But the biggest difference? The teachers. The faculty at Trinity are great at what they do, but the teachers at Seven Hills are on a whole different level.

A&S: You spent many Friday mornings at 7HS in High School Prep. How does the reality of high school compare to what you expected high school to be? 

Tyler: I did spend MANY Friday mornings in High School Prep, and even though I didn’t always love it at the time, I have to admit—it helped. I’m not sure if it was the countless practice exams, the mock essays, or learning about different schools, but I know that Mr. Stack and Mr. Murphy’s ComPS paper played a major role in preparing me for high school. It was daunting at first, but the entire writing process turned out to be one of the most valuable learning experiences I had.

A&S: When you think back on your time at Seven Hills, what kinds of memories stand out?

Tyler: The eighth-grade DC trip stands out the most. That trip was incredible—I’m pretty sure everyone who went had a great time. We got to be more independent, explore museums and monuments, and just experience the city in a way we hadn’t before. But honestly, the best part? The night in the hotel room. I won’t go into too much detail, but let’s just say it was an unforgettable night.

Another big moment for me was my graduation speech. It was an amazing opportunity to express my love for Seven Hills and address everyone one last time. It was bittersweet—my final goodbye to the school—but it allowed me to leave my mark and show just how much Seven Hills meant to me.

A&S: If you could go back and change one or two things about your experience at 7HS, what would you change? 

Tyler: I could say nothing and take the easy way out, but the truth is, there are a few things I wish I had done differently. First, I wish I had joined more of the Seven Hills sports teams. I didn’t participate in many competitive sports, and I truly regret it. The sports programs at Seven Hills were both fun and competitive, and I missed out on that experience.

A&S: Anything else?

Tyler: I also wish I had taken more time to appreciate the little moments. It’s easy to get caught up in schoolwork and daily routines, but looking back, it’s the small things—random laughs in class, inside jokes with friends, just walking the halls—that really made my time at Seven Hills special. If I could go back, I’d make sure to be more present and soak it all in.