Juan Rojas
Juan Rojas is a competitor unlike most we’ve seen over the years of holding Mr. Norrsitown, though some might not consider him to be a “competitor” at all.
Rojas enjoys video games and playing for ‘Town’s tennis team in his spare time, he also has a unique background in stagecraft. Previously taking the stand by dancing in multiple quinceaneras, he is already familiar with the performing arts, although these performances aren’t the main reason for his partaking in this event.
Wilson Prieto, a friend already participating in the yearly tradition, convinced, or as he likes to put it, “forced” him into joining.
“He told me, you better perform, or you better help me,” Rojas recalls. Because of this instance of being “forced against [his] own will,” he walked onto the practicing stage almost completely free of pressure he might’ve felt had he joined by, well, his own free will. Because of this lack of weight on his shoulders, Rojas also joined “The Guys” with a carefree and surprisingly lighthearted mindset. “I don’t really mind if I lose, I just want everybody to have fun.”
As it did with many of us, the struggles of COVID and the implementation of new rules to help prevent the spread of the disease made him adopt (like many of us) an unhealthy quality. “[Change in schedule] made me a huge procrastinator,” he said. Over the course of high school, it’s been something he’s struggled with constantly and wishes for the generations that’ll come after him to try their hardest to avoid this destructive habit. “Take every year seriously, I’m not saying don’t have fun, I’m just saying when it comes to classes pay attention, leave your phone down, you know? Enjoy it- join some clubs and do some sports, I wish I would’ve done sports my freshman year.”
Encouragement from his family is one of the things that keeps him going today, as he’s still tussling with procrastination, “Being a first generation here gives me that inspiration, gives me that motivation to keep on going, to try to live a better life.”
Rojas has learned the importance of being thankful for every opportunity he’s offered, so for this show, he simply wants to express his thankfulness for the time he’s had in the school district and for the friendships he’s built here. Time is a thing Rojas is particularly thankful for, especially spending it with these friendships in the closing hours of his high school career. “Seeing them (his fellow contestants) every day at the end of school makes it fun, makes it worth it”
Continuing in this sentimental and fluidly blissful tone, Rojas gave some advice to potential future candidates and current ones alike: “You guys should just have fun, enjoy it. Last year, big event, enjoy it as much as you can, and good luck to everybody.”