Musketeer Monday Part Two: Sophia Maghfour

Welcome to Musketeer Monday, a weekly series in which we feature students and staff around the Central Islip School District. If you’re interested in nominating a fellow Musketeer, please click the link below to submit your nomination:

Musketeer Monday Form

Musketeer Monday Part Two: Sophia Maghfour, 10th Grade, CIHS

Q: What is your favorite subject in school, and why?
A: My favorite subject is music because it has allowed me to meet so many new people and express my creativity in meaningful ways. It has also been a very supportive environment, as the staff involved are incredibly caring and have helped me grow not only as a musician but also as a person.

Q: Are you involved in any school activities or clubs? If so, which ones?
A: I am involved in swimming, Symphonic Band, Marching Band, Concert Choir, Sweet Adelines, Stage Crew, Action Committee, and Women2Women.

Q: Have you ever taken on a leadership role at school? Please describe your experience.
A: I served as President of the National Junior Honor Society in middle school, which taught me how to organize a group and use strong teamwork skills. I began developing leadership skills early in elementary school through Safety Patrol. I was also the middle school diving captain, which helped me build closer relationships with my team and develop better sportsmanship.

Q: Have you received any awards, honors, or special recognition?
A: I have been a Standard Scholar Award recipient every year since preschool. I also received an award for earning a score of 100 on the Algebra I Regents exam and was a recipient of the President’s Award for Educational Excellence. Additionally, I have participated in the NYSSMA Solo Festival multiple times, performing vocal and instrumental solos that are judged and awarded scores and medals.

Q: Do you participate in any activities outside of school?
A: Outside of school, I take part in community service whenever possible, especially with organizations such as Keep Islip Clean. I have also been selected for SCMEA’s All-County festivals for the past four years, performing in their select ensembles.

Q: Have you ever performed in a play or musical? If yes, what was your experience?
A: Yes. I performed in Seussical the Musical in seventh grade as the Cat in the Hat. This role pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become confident presenting in front of others. Now, I participate in stage crew and assist with the backstage technical aspects of Central Islip High School’s productions.

Q: Who are your biggest role models in school and outside of school?
A: My biggest role models in school are Ms. Brown and the students who came before me. Ms. Brown is incredibly community-oriented and thoughtful, and I aspire to be more like her. I also look up to former students because they sat in the same seats I sit in today and went on to accomplish amazing things. Outside of school, I am inspired by Mai Pham, a YouTube content creator who built a successful clothing brand through hard work and determination.

Q: What qualities make someone a good leader or role model in school?
A: I believe a good leader demonstrates patience, empathy, initiative, and confidence.

Q: How do you contribute to creating a positive environment at your school?
A: I try to create a positive school environment by complimenting and uplifting others. I also work extremely hard so that I can serve as an example for students who may doubt themselves.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member who has made a positive impact on you and explain why.
A: Mr. Ryan has made a very positive impact on me because he has always encouraged me to believe in myself and push beyond my limits. He has been someone I can trust with any issues I face and has helped me grow as a musician by teaching me how to bring music to life beyond just the notes on the page.

Q: What is your favorite part about your school?
A: My favorite part about Central Islip High School is the sense of community. Everyone fosters a welcoming environment and encourages you to become the best version of yourself.

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: Outside of school, I enjoy reading, baking, and—according to my neighbors—singing constantly.

Q: What’s your favorite book, movie, or TV show right now, and why?
A: My favorite TV show right now is Stranger Things because it played a big role in my childhood, and the release of the final season feels very sentimental to me.

Q: How would your friends describe you?
A: My friends would describe me as funny, confident, smart, and authentic.

Q: What does being a good classmate or friend mean to you?
A: To me, being a good classmate or friend means helping the people around you and being there when they need you. It also involves sacrifice and occasionally inconveniencing yourself for others when they need support.