Period 7. Mrs. Johnson’s Theory of Knowledge class. Senior Josiah Chung strolls in and takes his usual place in the back of the class. The teacher explains that this period will be a quiet study session.

But Chung isn’t the type to sit still and enjoy a “quiet study session”. As the time goes on, Chung gets increasingly anxious. He is dying for something interesting to occur. Then, the teacher makes a sudden, unflattering outburst. The awkwardness grows until Josiah can’t take it.

“Did you just pass gas Mrs. Johnson?” he asks out of genuine concern. Little did he know, his inquiry would completely derail the concentration of his classmates for the rest of the period.

We all know that one kid. The kid that makes the atmosphere a little better with their clever comments that cause the class to uncontrollably giggle, much to the dismay of the teacher.

“I think that I am actually more introverted than outgoing,” Chung said. “I would say that the reason that I make jokes in class is because I am responding to something that someone else said or did. I think that there is more humor in responding to the situation you’re in instead of trying to come up with random things without context.”

Despite his nonchalant attitude, Chung admits that “class clowns” often feel more pressure than the other students in the room.

“I would actually say that I feel more pressure to limit how much I say in class,” he said. “I feel like I always have something to say during class, especially to comment on something that a teacher or student says or does, so I have to be selective about what I say and try not to talk too much so I don’t annoy people.”

Often, the title of “class clown” brings about a negative connotation, but Chung believes that it is time for a change.

“I just wish there was a better name for it than ‘class clown’, it kind of makes it sound less sophisticated,” he said. “For example, I find titles such as ‘class genius’ or ‘class intellect’ more applicable to me.”

But there is so much more to Chung than just his witty comments. He also happens to be a full-IB student, boasting a 4.67 GPA.

“I am very proud of all the hard work I have put into my studies at SMCHS,” Chung said. “I believe that this education I have received will allow me to be successful wherever I choose to attend college.”

But wait there is more, not only is he smart and funny, he is athletic and charitable as well. He has competed in the long and triple jumps since freshman year.

“Oh, and I am also a master at Ping Pong — I’m unbeatable,” Chung said. “In regards to my service work, I am greatly involved in the worship team at church and I help by playing the drums and the bass. Also, I go help out at an orphanage in Tijuana every three months.”

Despite his crazy smarts, Chung still has no idea where he wants to attend college, however he does know he would like to major in Biology. As for where he sees himself in five years? Well that is certainly pretty clear for him to see.

“In five years, I see myself in a mansion overlooking the beach with a personal chef and a pet tiger,” Chung said confidently.