My name is Juliana Gamboa, and I belong to the graduating class of 2027. I attend Fenwick High School in Oak Park, Illinois, where I am a member of Student Council and serve as a Shield Leader. Over the course of the past three years, I have been a two time all-state cross country runner, where I placed 21st in 2024 and 14th in 2023, both in the 2A division. This past cross country season, Fenwick moved up to 3A and I ran a PR, placing 42nd overall. I also was honored to be named as the first junior cross country captain in school history. 
 
In track, I traveled downstate both in my freshman and sophomore year. In 2024, I competed in the 4×800 and 4×400. In 2025, I raced the 3200, placing 13th, and the 4×400. My PRs are 17:32.00 for 3 miles, 11:25.09 for the 3200, and 5:23 for the 1600. My goals for this track season are to run a sub 11:20 in the 3200 (ideally closer to 11:10), to lower my 1600 time, and to place top-10 at State in the 3200. 
 
Outside of running, I dedicate my time to community service and to my studies. Over the summer, I served more than 30 hours at Centre, a local physical therapy business. In college, I plan on pursuing a major in Health Sciences, so the hours I spent at Centre were really eye opening. I also worked as a lifeguard at my local pool. 
 
In the classroom, I hold a cumulative 4.5 GPA, received a 4.8 GPA for this fall semester, and have completed numerous AP and Honors courses. I take the time spent in the classroom just as seriously as my time spent training. Out of all my years at Fenwick, I have never received anything less than an A. 
 
Running is one of my greatest passions. I have met so many new people—some of who are my closest friends—through cross country and track. I am really looking forward to running and making these same friendships at the collegiate level. I am determined to pursue my dreams, and am committed to doing everything at 110%. For more information, please email me at julianagamboa2027@gmail.com.