Ashley Bryan, an enigma among the senior class. You may have seen her around, identifiable by her stylish, sporty clothing and tendency to play music in the bathroom stalls. Or, you may know Ashley from encountering her while making one of her dubsmashes she enjoys filming at different locations throughout the school. Some of her achievements include scoring over 1000 goals throughout her 4 year career playing Varsity basketball for Magnet (unsurprising with her 12 years of basketball experience in total) , becoming a co-president of Black Student Alliance, and Varsity softball for 3 years. Personally, she is my favorite person that I have ever had the joy of sharing classes with at Magnet. Over the last 4 years, Ashley has touched the lives of many of us at Magnet, and it’s only fair to shine some light on easily the most iconic member of our community.

Describe yourself in 3 words:

“Ashley Rebecca Bryan.”

What made you start playing basketball?

“My family forced me to around when I was 6, and I hated it at the time.”

How did it feel to reach 1000 goals:

“It felt good because I had so many friends and people there to cheer me on! It also was on senior night and allowed me to see how hard I’ve worked over the years to make it to this point.”

How has your time been at Magnet these past 4 years?

“Well, I hated it the first  year. When I was freshman it was really difficult because it wasn’t my choice to come here. Sophomore year I had Ms. Novinger and she made it great. I also feel like I’ve had to restrain myself because of the lack of diversity at Magnet. Like I don’t want to be labeled as ‘that black girl’ and somehow become the spokesperson for all black people.”

Best part?

“The advantages I get by being at Magnet. We’re definitely given a lot more freedom and respect than other high schools get, and despite its ‘flaws’, our facilities are really nice.”

Worst/most frustrating part?

“For me, the sports can be really frustrating. I just wish we could be more competitive. I love my team, but I’d also love to have more drive to win every single game. It can just get annoying to care so much and feel like it’s not matched fully by the team.”

Where are you planning on attending college?

“I’m not sure yet. I’m thinking maybe a smaller school where I can play basketball like Winthrop or wherever sends the most money.”

What career do you hope to go into?  

“I’m trying to get a good check so I plan on going into the medical field. I was first thinking maybe a anesthesiologist, but now I’m leaning more towards being a nurse or something along those lines.”

If you had to describe your life in one playlist, name 5 songs that would be on it.

“‘Feeling Good’ by Nina Simone, ‘Do Re Mi’ by Blackbear, ‘In the Still of the Night’ by The 5 Satins, ‘The Parting Glass’ from the movie Evelyn, and ‘All Falls Down’ by Kanye West.”

Your hair is constantly changing. What’s been your favorite look?

“When I have my braids. It’s easier to manage and it really compliments me as a whole.”

A look you wish you could forget?

“I had a relaxer once and I really wish I had never gotten that.’

For the underclassmen reading this, what are some tips you have for surviving at Magnet?

“Don’t get caught up on one grade and respect your teachers because no one likes rude students.”

What’s your philosophy when it comes to life?

“You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take and just because there’s a goalie, doesn’t mean you can’t score.”

Who is someone you look up to?

“I look up to my mother because she’s taller than me.”

You’re well known for your flirtatious comments. What’s your best pick-up line?

“My go to method is ‘have I seen you somewhere before?’ and it works every time because it gets the conversation flowing really well.”

Iced water or room temperature?

“Room temperature! You can drink more at a time without getting a brain freeze.”

Hopefully after reading this you’ve gained some insight into the mind of truly the most interesting, funny, and kind person to ever grace the halls of Magnet, Ashley Rebecca Bryan.