April 20, 2021 by Laura Winters
When asked if there were any stand-out HHS students that we should keep our eye on, Principal Rick Swanson didn't miss a beat before recommending that we get to know Pria Parker a bit better. And it's easy to see why. Pria is not only a standout athlete in track and field, she is also a four-year veteran of the High School's Chamber Orchestra and a dedicated member of many of the school's social justice clubs. Read below to learn more about this outstanding student and how she is making strides to enrich a culture of respect, inclusion and equity at Hingham High School and beyond.
Hingham, meet Pria.
You're considered a star of the HHS track team- when and how did you begin running?
I started running in spring of my freshman year after my friend, Anna, convinced me to do track. I didn’t really know what to do for a spring sport, but I heard that the track team was a great environment and the rumors were true! It’s such an incredible team!
What is your favorite part about being a student athlete? Why do you love to run.
I love being a student athlete because it gives me a chance to spend my free time doing what I love with people I love. Running is incredible because it’s a lifelong sport, and I can continue to run, even if I’m not racing. That being said, I do love to race—it really helps me channel my competitive energy and gives me purpose and goals for my training.
Where is your favorite place to train in Hingham?
My favorite place to run is Wompatuck State Park! Such a beautiful place to walk, run, bike, etc.
You've spent four years in the high school's Chamber Orchestra. What instrument do you play and how were you introduced to music?
I’ve been playing cello since third grade (nearly ten years!) and I’ve loved every second of it. I started in the Hingham After School Strings program, and then I started playing for the school orchestras in fifth grade and have been ever since. I’ve always loved music, but my incredible teachers (Linda Hanley, Barbara Gorczyca, Phaedre Sassano, and Jeremy Harman) really helped me nurture and grow this passion.
You are a member of so many clubs and organizations. If you could only be a part of one, which would you select and why?
I’m not sure how I could choose just one. All of the organizations I’m in are amazing, but I think I would choose the school orchestra. The atmosphere of the high school orchestra is so incredible, so supportive, and just such a welcoming place. Not having in-person orchestra this year was really sad because of course I can keep playing cello independently, but it’s not the same as playing a in a large group with my friends and with Ms. Sassano as the conductor. I really miss that.
In your opinion, who is the most inspiring person at Hingham High School? Who do you find to be the most inspiring person in Hingham?
This is such a hard question. I’ve had so many influential and inspiring role models at HHS, so it’s really hard to pick just one. This year, I’ve worked closely with Principal Swanson in the new organization he created called the HHS Unity Project. Even in a year when we are both physically and emotionally distant and divided, his work with the HHS UP has helped to enrich the culture of respect, inclusion, safety, and equity at HHS, and I’m so proud to be a part of it.
Do you have any hidden talents?
As many of my peers might know from watching me on zoom meetings, I love to knit and crochet. It’s great for staying focused during long Zoom meetings 🙂
What is your favorite local spot?
What is your favorite restaurant or meal in Hingham?
Coffee Corner! It’s the cutest little cafe...I love going after early morning runs!
If you could give one piece of advice to this year's Kindergarten class, what would it be?
Be optimistic! It’s been a weird year, but things are getting better, so keep finding the little things to be happy about.
What are you most looking forward to after graduation?
When you leave Hingham, what will you miss most?
I’ll miss my friends and family the most.
So many accomplishments for an amazing young woman! Honored to have been one of her middle school teachers. Congratulations, Pria, and best wishes in the future.
Dear Pria,
Much love and luck!
XX
Mrs. Amster