Mayfield senior Paloma Murga is a finalist for this year’s Pasadena Tournament of Roses Royal Court. Out of 28 young women, only seven are selected to represent Pasadena during the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. The journey has been both exciting and surreal, said Murga. She credits interview practice, leadership skills, and community service for helping her reach her point in the court selection. 

“Learning how to respond to questions being thrown at you, it’s honestly kind of fun,” she said. “It keeps you on your toes, like what’s next.” For Murga, participating feels like a rite of passage for senior year in Pasadena, 

“Growing up in the area, I’ve always known I wanted to do it. Even though there’s so much going on with college applications, I thought: why not just try it?” The experience of applying her public speaking skills and leadership qualities, says Murga, has not only prepared her for the Rose Court, but also shaped her personal growth as a senior.