Class of 2011: Janet Karanja

Born halfway around the world, Janet Karanja’s educational path led her to Broadneck High School, and our community is the beneficiary.

Karanja was born to Lucy and Daniel Karanja in Kenya. Her family moved to Michigan, then to Prince George’s County in Maryland and finally to Arnold, where Karanja has lived throughout her high school years.

During her years at BHS, Karanja has taken on various leadership roles, serving as a class officer and a member of the National Honor Society.  She is also a leader at her church, Riverdale Baptist, working with the children’s program.

But perhaps her favorite activity has been studying art and working with faculty and other members of the school's art club.

“I love all kinds of art—like mixed media, drawing, working with clay—you name it,” said Karanja about her talents.

Her works have been featured at Anne Arundel Community College and the recycled art show at Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis, as well as all Broadneck High School art shows.

Karanja said she couldn’t have done it all without the help and support of Ottilie Habercam, her 3-D art teacher. “She was so caring and nurturing,” said Karanja, "She was very inspiring.”

Though Karanja plans to do something with her hands for a career, she doesn't believe it will be in the field of art.

“I have always wanted to be a surgeon,” said Karanja. “I really enjoy biology and helping people, too.”

Karanja is headed to the University of Maryland College Park this fall to major in either neurology or physiology.