Teen of the Month: Monica

At Aurora Public Library, we're passionate about celebrating the voices, talents, and passions of the amazing teens in our community. Each month, we highlight a local teen to learn more about who they are, what inspires them, and how they stay curious, creative, and connected.

This month, we're excited to introduce our Teen of the Month: Monica, from Aurora High School. Monica is one of the volunteers  at the library.

1. What book are you currently reading? What do you think of it so far?

The book I am currently reading is Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson. So far, I really love how the book starts with a halloween themed scene and Jet’s sharp personality and humour..

2. How do you usually discover new books to read?

I usually discover new books through my favourite authors posting on social media, and recommendations from friends or family..

3. Have you ever read a book that changed how you see the world? Which one?

A while ago I read 1984 by Geroge Orwell, which completely changed my perspective of the world. The book uncovers how powerful governments or systems can manipulate truth, control information, and monitor people’s lives in ways that affect what we believe a.

4. What subject do you enjoy the most in school, and why?

I love biology the most as I’m interested in medicine, like learning the science behind what goes on in the human body, and how life came to be. 

5. How do you stay motivated during the school year?

I stay motivated by taking classes I enjoy and find interesting, so studying feels more fun and less like a chore.

6. What’s one study tip or habit that works well for you?

My biggest study tip is instead of memorizing, you should always try to get a strong understanding because when you actually understand something, you can explain it in your own words and use it in different situations instead of just remembering it for a test. I find it also sticks with you longer and makes learning feel more fun, not just a bunch of facts you have to forget afterward.

7. Who inspires you to do your best in life?

My parents are Romanian immigrants who worked hard and made big sacrifices to give me better opportunities than they had growing up. Seeing everything they’ve done motivates me every day to work hard and make the most of the chances I have!. 

8. What’s one skill or activity you’d love to learn and why?

I would love to learn how to play the piano because growing up I’ve always wanted to master an instrument, and I just simply find the piano a really beautiful and expressive instruments. 

9. How do you see libraries helping teens in your community?

Libraries support teens in many ways, not just by providing educational and fun books to read, but by hosting creative events and programs teens can join, provide volunteer and leadership opportunities, and give access to technology like computers and the internet that not everyone has at home. Libraries are also one of the main places where teens go to study, work on projects, or even just to have a quiet place to relax.

10. What would you like to see more of in your local library?

I’d love to see more STEM programs and clubs at APL, as they would give teens hands-on opportunities to explore science, tech, engineering, and math in fun, creative ways that school doesn’t always offer, which can even help spark interest in future careers or projects.