4-16-2025 4:05am

FOLLOWING IN HER

Graduating senior profile: Piper Citino, Online Learning Program

BCPS schools attended: Mays Chapel Elementary School, Ridgely Middle School, Dulaney High School, and Online Learning Program

Piper Citino

Tell us about a teacher, assignment, field trip, or extracurricular activity that had a significant impact on you?

Starting my senior year, I began to have doubts about my future, unsure if nursing would be the right fit or even a possibility. It was then when I was blessed with the opportunity to join Mrs. Whitehead’s anatomy class. Within a class or two, my interest in the medical field reignited, brighter than ever.

Mrs. Whitehead's passion for teaching and the way in which she brought the information to life made everything click.

Her encouragement and the way she believed in me gave me the final push I needed. Thanks to her, I’m not only sure of what I want to do, but I’m thrilled to chase that dream. Mrs. Whitehead reminded me why I wanted to become a nurse in the first place, to learn, to help, and to make a difference.

What did you accomplish that you are most proud of?

What I am most proud of is my resilience and dedication to my future. Despite battling academic and mental health challenges, I have remained hopeful and confident for what's to come. Although my high school experience may not have looked like the "typical" one, I couldn't be happier with the way it all worked out.

What’s next for you?

Next year, I will be attending Towson University, where I will be majoring in nursing!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I like to imagine that I will be working in a hospital, whether it's in Pediatrics, Labor & Delivery, or the Emergency Room, I know my passion for helping others will exert itself just the same.

I hope that I have explored the world and traveled to a few of my bucket-list destinations. Above all else, I hope to feel happy and fulfilled with my journey and all the stops I made along the way.

Favorite quote

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” – Ferris Bueller (lead character in “Ferris Bueller's Day Off” movie, 1986)

Favorite book

“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz

Favorite movie

“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004)

About Piper

“The Online Learning Program’s Class of 2025 is filled with determined and inspiring students, and among them is senior Piper Citino. Piper’s journey has been one of resilience and self-discovery. After realizing that a traditional school setting wasn’t the best fit for her, she embraced the flexibility of the OLP. By minimizing outside distractions and creating a structured approach to her learning, Piper found a balance between academics, mental health, and other responsibilities.

“In addition to excelling in her coursework, Piper manages a demanding schedule, working after school and on weekends, while prioritizing her well-being. Piper’s self-awareness and outgoing personality shine through in the way she advocates for herself, connects meaningfully with her peers and teachers, and demonstrates empathy toward others.

“With a lifelong passion for the medical field, inspired by her biggest role model, her grandmother, a nurse for over 40 years, Piper is taking the next step in her journey at Towson University, where she will major in nursing. Her determination and heart for helping others will undoubtedly make her a compassionate and dedicated healthcare professional.

“Piper Citino is a remarkable example of perseverance and ambition, and we have no doubt she will make a lasting impact in the medical field and beyond. Congratulations, Piper!”

Kristine Harrison, English 12 teacher