Deepti Panguluri: Buckeye Bound

Deepti Panguluri is currently a senior here at AHS who will be attending The Ohio State University, while there, she plans on majoring in either biology or psychology while following the pre-med track.

Panguluri has big plans for her bright future, and she shares, “I hope to finish my senior year strong and prepare myself for success in college. My long-term goal is to become a pediatrician, possibly specializing within the field. I also want to continue volunteering inside and outside the hospital and maintain a balance between academics and my social life.”

With the biggest heart from Aurora, Panguluri’s passion for medicine is steamed from the want to help others, “Medicine has always been a passion of mine because it allows me to help others. I want to enter the field with passion and empathy, as they are the reasons I want to pursue this career.”

Full of mixed emotions of graduation, Panguluri is reminiscent of her time here but excited for her next journey of life, “I have mixed emotions. I’m beyond excited to start this new chapter, especially at a school as big and diverse as Ohio State, where I’ll be surrounded by people who share my passions and goals. At the same time, leaving Aurora is bittersweet. I’ve been here since third grade, and this community has shaped me into the person I am today. I’ll especially miss the memories I’ve made through volleyball and all the leadership opportunities I’ve had, from being Student Senate leader and class treasurer to volleyball varsity captain. Aurora has always been a safe and supportive place for me, and saying goodbye will be difficult.”

Panguluri has made many great memories here at AHS, from athlete to friend she’s made them all, “One of my favorite memories is our five-set win against Hudson. It was the best volleyball I’ve ever played, but what made it even more special was the love and support from my teammates. Every time I scored, they were up on their feet, cheering with so much joy—it was an unforgettable moment. Another favorite memory is Senior Beach Day. The entire day was perfect from start to finish. The warm weather, the time spent with friends, and the chance to reflect on how close-knit our class is made it truly special.”

Panguluri is beyond grateful for the teachers who have helped her throughout her high school experience, “Mrs. Simmerman and Doc Munson have had the greatest impact on me. Over the past two years, Mrs. Simmerman has shown me so much love and support. She has always believed in me, giving me the confidence to pursue anything I set my mind to. Her encouragement has meant the world to me.”

Doc Munson has taught me that learning matters more than grades. He always says, "I have an opportunity for learning," which, while sometimes frustrating to hear, was a constant reminder to focus on growth. From staying after school for hours to supporting me in my extracurriculars, both of them have shown me how much they truly care.

Panguluri wants to share with the underclassman, “Put yourself out there. Stop worrying about popularity or what others might think—just try new things. The more you step outside your comfort zone, the closer you’ll get to finding what you truly love. Join clubs, take on leadership roles, and have fun. High school flies by faster than you think.”

In 2035, Panguluri will still be continuing her medical track to have a successful future, “I hope to have finished medical school and match into a residency program, depending on whether I take any gap years. Ideally, I’d love to match somewhere close to home, but I’m also open to new opportunities and starting a life somewhere new.”