Lilly Martinez

Lilly Martinez is currently in their sophomore year at Morro Bay High School. Along with starting their second year of high school, they are continuing their passion for journalism and softball. Over the summer they worked with future Morro Bay Pirates at the Kids Camp of Morro Bay.


 Like many, they faced immense struggles when beginning their high school journey. They were faced with increased anxiety and depression before the start of their freshman year. When reflecting on the hardship they said, “Trying to learn how to manage that while being in a new setting was interesting.” However, Martinez attributes being able to traverse and conquer that challenge to her family and internal growth.


When asked about why they chose to come back to journalism for a second year, Martinez showcased their underlying passion for the field. “It’s a class that I have a lot of fun in. It’s really interesting to me to go out and find stories about people or places and write about it and kind of get that knowledge into other people… and find the part of them that otherwise wouldn’t have found the light of day.” Martinez also has a more personal connection to journalism as their mother was a journalist “for a number of years.”


Along with journalism, Martinez holds a strong passion for softball. Their first year of high school softball did not go exactly as planned. The team faced a difficult season and was only able to win one game. This did not stop Martinez from positively reflecting on their time on the team. More precisely, they stated that one of their favorite memories was the team’s solo victory. It was the team’s senior night against Santa Maria High School. The team was able to rally together in order to honor their sole senior. Martinez said, “We mercy ruled the other team. We were up by 15 when we won, so that was cool.”

Martinez hopes to take a gap year post-high school. While they are between educational years, they hope to be able to travel around the world. When asked why they wanted to travel during the gap year they said, “I want to travel and learn about the culture of people in different places.” This greatly showcases Martinez’s compassion for understanding and helping others.


After they are done with their travels abroad, they hope to begin EMT training. Martinez stated that they are interested in the career as they want to be able to help others and be the first by their side. Martinez also expressed interest in any career that would help others who are struggling with mental health issues.

Martinez is an amazing person to get to know. When they are asked about their passions it is easy to see their dedication to what they care for. Martinez’s compassion also allows for them to want to understand more about others. Martinez has a gift for making meaningful connections with whoever they meet.

Lilly Martinez | October 22, 2024

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Lilly Martinez | February 5, 2024

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Lilly Martinez | October 22, 2023