An author-in-the-making and aspiring filmmaker, William has filled his high school years with creativity and self-driven projects. He’s also brought that same creative energy to The Axe, where he’s worked as a reporter and now a copy editor since junior year. 

“I really enjoy writing pieces that I get to do research for and educate myself while writing,” he shared.

“I love that William follows his curiosity and interests and intellect, and everything he does is rooted in this very strong, joyful work ethic.” – Bobbie Willis

Outside of the press, William has pursued storytelling in other forms. He’s currently writing several novels, one of which has grown into a 60,000-word manuscript — about the length of a 200-page book. It’s a fantasy novel set in a modern-era world filled with “cars, skyscrapers, and stuff.”

“For me, I actually am just writing it for the sake of writing it,” he noted. “I couldn’t care less whether it gets published. I’m writing it for my own enjoyment.”

His interest in films and film-making also came into focus this year through the Film Literature class at South. For the end-of-the-term project, he co-wrote and co-directed a 12 minute film with a group of peers – well over their original 4-7 minute goal – receiving numerous accolades at the class Film Festival.

“We won Best Picture, we won Best Original Screenplay, and the lead actor Elias, who was also the co-writer, won Best Actor.”

“William is super thoughtful, philosophical, always up for a good debate or discussion. Really creative, really wrote some cool fantasy stories and poetry.” – Tom Cantwell

That thoughtfulness extends to his approach to school itself. William’s advice to younger students reflects his philosophical nature. He says that stressing about projects doesn’t really help you get them done. If you’re lying in bed, there’s nothing you can do about it, so there’s no point in thinking about it. “Compartmentalization,” he adds, “is the name of the game.”

“Will is one of the most inquisitive and thoughtful students I’ve taught. Very rarely does Will not express himself without thinking deeply about what he wants to say, and how he wants to say it.” – Jacob Clark

Among his other high school achievements, William mentions his SAT and PSAT scores with a slight smile. They feel more like academic milestones than personal victories. What he’s genuinely proud of, however, are his final projects in his AP US Government and Politics and art classes, and simply being proud of his classes by their own virtue.

“William is super chill and almost always has a smile on his face. He’s an amazing chem student both in terms of being so good at chemistry, but also having this curious mind and strong desire to learn. So, he’s awesome.” – Sarah Hocken

There are some people whose presence speaks louder than their words. In class, William is quiet, hardworking, and often focused on his own creative endeavors. But just a few minutes of conversation, and you’ll find that he is introspective, kind, and funny as well.

Looking ahead, William will attend the University of Oregon in the fall. He is planning to study chemistry while also keeping his options open for the future. Though he’s enjoyed his work at The Axe, he sees writing as something broader: “I think everyone should try to write—it makes you more eloquent, helps with everyday writing, and gets ideas on paper.” For him, it’s about personal growth rather than career ambitions.

When asked what kind of person he hopes to become, William’s answer is refreshingly grounded: “I’d like to get to a point where I can find a healthy work-life balance and focus on the life part—become part of a community that is welcoming and open.”

William, we here at the Axe staff wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

Article by Lily Yao