A girl in tenth grade at Pasco High fits mariachi music into her days, steps onto theater stages, yet still finds time to lead in FFA. Even with so much on her plate, one thought sticks – more classmates could join something after class.
Most tenth graders are just getting used to high school. Yet Hermione Jaimes dives straight into three busy groups on campus. Music pulls her toward the Mariachi band. Stage lights draw her into theater shows. Leadership keeps her working as an FFA officer. Because of this mix, she stands out at Pasco High.
“I’m in Mariachi, Theater, and I’m an officer in FFA,” Hermione said.
Most days, juggling three after-school groups while keeping up with lessons feels too much. Still, Hermione works out ways to stay on track. During quiet moments in class, she focuses on assignments early. If time runs short later, small changes help balance everything.
“I try to get it all done in class, but sometimes I have to do it late at night or I sign up for EI,” Hermione said.
Curiosity pulled her in before plans could form. What started as a maybe turned into something more, just by showing up. Each thing she tried caught her attention for its own odd reason. Interesting was enough to get her through the door. Sticking around became natural once she saw what happened next.
“They’re really fun to do and they give me something to do,” Hermione said. “They’re an easy chance to make friends, got me out of the house, and sounded interesting.”
Most never think about friendship when picking after-school stuff. Yet being around others who like what you do helps bonds grow. Three groups meant three times the chances for Hermione.
Hermione has clear words for those unsure about diving into club life.
“If you’re going to join, make sure you are there, do your work, and be willing to learn,” Hermione said. “You have to be open-minded.”
Anyone joining a club with her attitude might just discover the same thing: an effort that feels meaningful right away.
Most kids at Pasco High find their spot through activities outside regular classes, even if they’re not into what Hermione does. Music pulls some; farming grabs others, while stages draw those who like attention. Showing up matters most that quiet step leads to surprises later. Belonging grows where effort lands, no matter the group. What sticks isn’t just skill gained, but how much shows up when you do.
Asked about her top pastime, she wouldn’t settle on a single choice.
“I love them all, so I don’t have one,” Hermione said. “They all add something different to my life and are all fun.”
At Pasco High, life goes beyond the trio of clubs Hermione joins. Check out the Gaming Club, Skills USA, and ASL (American Sign Language) are just a few options among dozens scattered around school grounds. Interest in building things? Performing? Facing off in competition? Or just connecting with people who geek out over the same stuff? There’s likely a match. Walk through the door one time and see where you land. Many groups open their doors whenever someone shows up. Hermione found her path by trying just once. Turns out small choices can grow without warning.
