Abbygal Chue remembers walking through the winding hallways of La Follette High on a school tour led by a group of seniors. Somehow, she thought, they made the massive building feel less intimidating.
Chue would later learn they were called Soulful Seniors: upperclassmen who welcome incoming students, answer questions and help set the tone for belonging on campus. From a quiet, unsure freshman perspective, their confidence and leadership stood out.
At the time, Chue did not see herself in that role. "I hadn't really come out of my shell yet."
But something about the way those students showed up for others stayed with her. She surrounded herself with new, supportive friends and, just a couple years later, she decided it was her turn.
"Once junior year hit, I felt this burst of energy just pop out of me, and I was ready to get out in the world more," Chue said. "I had made up my mind that I was going to be a Soulful Senior. I wanted to be the one to show all the freshmen around, let people know I'm here to help them out."
People are also reading…
Her leadership roles and passion for supporting fellow classmates grew when La Follette counselor Natalie Walter recommended Chue join the school's Wellness Team and help plan activities for Mental Health Week.
One of the team's most impactful projects was a series of short video segments featuring students and staff sharing personal reflections on anxiety, kindness and self-image. Chue helped organize outreach, encouraging peers — many of whom are "shyer" like herself — to participate.
"I think it helped seeing familiar faces speak openly about mental health and helped normalize conversations that can often make you feel alone," Chue said.
Beyond the video project, Chue also supported wellness outreach efforts designed to gather student input on mental health and school engagement. One initiative included an anonymous survey about why students may skip class, paired with snacks and an open table to encourage participation. The effort collected more than 100 responses, offering staff meaningful insight into student experiences.
This work also helped Chue grow her post-high school plans. She intends to pursue psychology, starting at Madison College before transferring to a four-year university. She hopes to support people facing mental health challenges and help them better understand themselves.
"I struggled with mental health too, but I got better," she said. "I just want to help people know it can get better for them too."
Looking back, Chue said one of the most meaningful parts of high school was finding a community where she felt accepted for who she is.
"If you try so hard to fit in, you never truly find yourself," she said. "I'm really glad I got to be around people who accept me."
