Meet Carl Peretania

Whiz Kid's name: Carl Peretania

Whiz Kid's age: 18

Whiz Kid's school: Lakes High School

Whiz Kid's accomplishment: Carl, a 2011 Honor Graduate, is off to Washington State University in the fall, where he plans to study interior design and architecture. During his time at Lakes, Carl was a member of the National Honor Society, Pacific Islanders Club, Key Club and played defensive tackle on the varsity football team.  

Whiz Kid's key to awesomeness: Carl, a Samoa native who moved to Washington before the start of his senior year, said that it was difficult to leave his home and adapt to a new environment and culture without his family. While living with his aunt and uncle, the former rugby player focused on making new friends and learning the rules of American football.

“The thing that helped me most was family and the lessons I learned as a young child—discipline and effort,” he said.

He was also happy to join the Key Club, being no stranger to doing community service back in Samoa. He played a role in the Tsunami Relief Aid in the wake of the deadly earthquake and tsunami that hit the Samoan Islands in September 2009. Carl helped organize and deliver food and clean water to affected areas, clear rubble and trash, and, most importantly, help search for survivors.

Carl, who also enjoys reading and drawing, said that he is excited to spend the next four years in Pullman.

“It’s awesome getting to know my college roommate and planning how we’ll live the college lifestyle,” he said.