For many high school students, owning a car represents more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It symbolizes both independence and responsibility while also serving as a space for meaningful experiences.
One student, Karla Enriquez (12) shared that she owns a 2021 Honda CR-V Sport, a car her parents purchased from an online seller after asking for her input. Enriquez shared that she instantly loved the car and that the decision further motivated her to get her driver’s license.
Over the summer, she added a personal touch by purchasing a parking spot at school and decorating it with a creative design. Inspired by the “Little Miss” characters, she painted her space with a creative twist, replacing the text to read “Little Miss Senior.” For Enriquez, her car has become an essential part of her daily life. It allows her to drive her siblings to school and handle errands for her parents, giving her a sense of responsibility and pride in helping her family.
Another student, Hailey Tangco (12) drives a 2023 Toyota Corolla that she named Cory. Unlike Enriquez, she didn’t get to choose her car, instead, it was a surprise. Tangco shared, “I was at home and a Toyota salesman kept coming over and I thought it was a car for my mom. When it got delivered, she told me to go take it for a test drive to the nearest park and she revealed that it was actually my car and not hers.”
Tangco explained how this surprise gift quickly became a meaningful part of her life. As she reflected on her favorite memories, she revealed how a summer road trip to San Jose with her best friend, during which they watched the sunset on a hill and had deep conversations during a late-night drive, made for unforgettable moments.
Beyond the trips, her car has also brought her comfort and convenience. “It has made daily life so much easier,” she said. “Being able to drive to school and not only that it’s also my safe space whenever I want to drown out all my problems and just listen to music.”
For students like Enriquez and Tangco, cars are more than practical tools. They make managing responsibilities easier, create cherished memories, and even serve as an escape when high school gets overwhelming.
