Berkeley Institute’s head prefects reflect on their responsibilitiesBy Olivia RileyAs head boy and head girl at Berkeley Institute, Sidney Mello and Ariana Caines both keep themselves busy with their studies, various clubs and their head student responsibilities.As head students, the teenagers find themselves actively involved with student life, with tasks ranging from door duty, which includes performing uniform checks, to mentoring other students.The students also perform cafeteria duty to maintain a civilised eating area and they also organise many bake sales.When asked their favourite aspects of the roles, head girl Ariana said: “My favourite part is just knowing that I represent my school and my school’s rich tradition.“And just knowing that my school chose me for this honour is really amazing.”Also proud, Sidney said: “Having people look up to you is pretty important and being selected as a role model meant a lot to me. It gave me a self-confidence boost.”The students also shared their goals for the year and what they hope to accomplish in their new positions.“As far as what I want to put into the school, I would just encourage optimism and positivity because we have a lot of things at Berkeley that we should be thankful for,” said Ariana.Added Sidney: “I’d like to encourage the other students to change the school and to do the best they can.”Sidney, who’s currently studying English, advanced maths and calculus, also takes gym class, is involved in the peer helpers class and plays the violin in string ensemble.The 17-year-old also plays the violin outside of class and is an avid rugby player.Ariana is currently taking AS English, advanced maths, biology, gym and Spanish. She says that AS English is her favourite course.Outside the classroom, she participates in Youth Parliament and is also a part of the debate club at the school.“I really enjoy being a part of Youth Parliament because it gives me the opportunity to make an impact in my community, and I just enjoy debate because I like the art of arguing,” said the 18-year-old.And as an aspiring attorney, the Hamilton Parish resident has been aptly harnessing her talents for her future career.“I want to be a human rights attorney and eventually work for the United Nations, “ said Ariana.She explained that she plans to study socio-cultural anthropology and hopes to attend either Fordham University, Howard University or University of Pennsylvania in the coming year.Sidney also plans on attending university overseas.“I intend to do two years at the Bermuda College — to work and save money — and then go on to do a bachelor of fine arts, double majoring in graphic design and fine art at Full Sail University,” said the St David’s resident, explaining that he’d like to be a graphic designer.When asked what advice the students had for others, Ariana responded: “Set goals for yourself and don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do.“The only person who can stop you from succeeding is yourself.”Said Sidney: “Stay away from negative influences, avoid distractions, don’t do drugs, abide by the law and believe in yourself.”