In a moment that perfectly captures her exceptional journey through Masterman, Daniella Liang has been named Senior of the Month – an honor that arrives alongside her acceptance to the University of Pennsylvania, where she’ll pursue chemistry while remaining in her beloved Philadelphia.

Born and raised in the City of Brotherly Love to Chinese immigrant parents who both work as researchers – her father at CHOP and her mother at Penn – Daniella’s path to science feels almost predestined. But it’s her grandmother’s battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s that has given her work true purpose, fueling her determination to contribute to neurodegenerative disease research.

Since joining Masterman in fifth grade, Daniella has thrived among classmates who’ve become family, weaving together an impressive tapestry of achievements. As captain of the Science Olympiad team and leader of a KPop dance crew, she bridges the worlds of science and arts with natural grace. Her summer was spent conducting genetics research at Penn, participating in their Summer Science Initiative, and volunteering at CHOP – experiences that have only strengthened her resolve to pursue pharmaceutical research.

Whether she’s teaching Spanish through BeHASSTIC, ingeniously fitting 44 pages onto a single competition sheet in size 4 font for Science Olympiad, or bringing comfort to young patients at CHOP, Daniella approaches every challenge with determination and warmth. Her story is a beautiful blend of scientific ambition and compassionate leadership, rooted in her family’s legacy of research and her deep connection to Philadelphia.

As she prepares to join Penn’s Class of 2029, Daniella carries with her not just academic excellence, but a profound understanding of how science can change lives. For this daughter of researchers who has blossomed into a true Philadelphian, the recognition as Senior of the Month marks just the beginning of her journey to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those affected by diseases like the one challenging her grandmother.

We asked Daniella our favorite list of questions: 

Why do you think you were nominated as Senior of the Month?
I believe I was nominated as Senior of the Month for my dedication and involvement in the school community. I am thankful for all the opportunities I have been given and hope to help others gain the same access by being supportive and responsible in all of my clubs and activities. Whether tutoring a student in AP Chemistry for National Honor Society, checking in with members of the Kpop Dance Club I co-founded, or staying late after school as a captain to help my Science Olympiad teammates get ready for competitions, I strive to create a welcoming environment that empowers my peers.

You were nominated by Mr. Allen. Explain your relationship to him? (Explain his role in your experience at your school)
Mr. Allen is my counselor who has been with me every step of my high school career. He is very supportive, often checking in on me in the hallways and keeping me updated on interesting opportunities for me as a STEM major. He made the college application process a lot easier and the small acts of kindness always make my day.

What is one thing you’d like to share about yourself that most people don’t know about you?
I took ice skating lessons for seven years. I quit around eighth grade, but it was a rewarding experience. Not only did skating help me destress, but I also grew more confident through my time on ice. I was terrified of the ice when I started skating at age seven. I clung dearly to the edge of the rink. Slowly, with help from my coaches, I improved from shakily standing on ice to competition-level spins. I enjoyed the technical and artistic aspects involved, how I needed to train down to the minuscule details, but also got to show off my creativity and flow with the music. Skating helped me believe in my abilities and prepared me for high school with time management and self-care lessons.

What do you enjoy the most when you are not at school?
I enjoy spending my free time engaging in activities that help me unwind and appreciate the beauty around me. Some of my favorite pastimes include walking along the Schuylkill River, crocheting, and painting. I also cherish moments like watching sunsets with friends at the park or capturing the beauty of flowers I see along the sidewalk. These small moments allow me to relax and recharge, making them truly special.

How did you choose your high school? What is the best thing about attending school at Masterman?
I started at Masterman in fifth grade and felt supported by the teacher and student community, so I stayed for high school. One of the best parts about Masterman is this bond with my peers and teachers. The teachers have supported me since fifth grade and watched me grow. I always go to them for help, whether to spill my frustrations or for study resources. This is the same bond I have with my classmates. We’ve watched each other grow up, figure out our careers and interests, and experienced many highs and lows together. I will always cherish my time at Masterman, and I would not be who I am today without my friends and teachers supporting me all eight years.

What is one thing that the School District could do to improve our service to students?
More opportunities and personalized learning plans for students all across the school district. For me, the opportunity to take high-level classes like AP and dual enrollment, especially in more difficult science and math subjects, set me up for success and showed me that I could excel in college. I also used these experiences to explore whether or not I enjoyed STEM at a deeper level. Providing more AP classes to schools around the district and helping students explore their interests at a higher level would empower and support students.

Daniella, we are so excited for you – best of luck in the college and career of your dreams!