“I studied a lot, learned to allocate my time well, and got a good understanding of my own limits and abilities,” said Iniyazh Hariharan. “It took a lot of self-awareness and strategy.”
For these top-of-the-class seniors, success didn’t just come from intelligence. It came from time management, strong support, and intentional efforts.
“The biggest thing is having personal drive,” Tannishtha Mondal explained. “And I always asked for help from my teachers. If I struggled in any class, I made sure that I focused most of my attention on that class. I’m a sucker for to-do lists, too.”
With both these students having weighted GPAs soaring over 4.7, Mondal and Hariharan both agreed their toughest course was IB History of the Americas.
“I’m really excited to speak at graduation,” Hariharan said. “After spending so much time at Oakmont, I have a lot to say. Plus, I like public speaking.”
“I’m so honored and excited,” Mondal said. “I actually gave speeches at my elementary and middle school graduations, and even did a TEDx talk. So, suffice to say, I’m ready.”
They also offered their expert advice to peers and underclassmen, especially to those just beginning their academic journeys.
“Try to figure out your goal as soon as you can—join clubs, take placement quizzes online, talk to people around you,” Iniyazh Hariharan said. “And if things feel like too much, that’s okay. It just means your goal might need to change. Be honest with yourself, and work toward what you genuinely want.”
“Don’t procrastinate—it’s a killer,” Hariharan said. “Get it done now so your task load is lighter later. Take it from someone who did the IB Diploma, had a job, and did other extracurriculars.”
Both of these academic champions are headed to UCLA after graduation.
While Hariharan is studying economics on a pre-law track, Mondal is studying business economics and hoping to major in an additional STEM field.
From middle school, to Oakmont, to UCLA and beyond, these graduates have proven that motivation, discipline, and knowing yourself can help you be successful.
