From graduation at TJHSST to Carnegie Mellon University 

TJHSST Class of 2018 | Software Engineer | M.F.A. Candidate

From Latin and theatre to neuroscience research and student government, Anna Lulushi ’18 made the most of her time at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Today, she's in her third semester of an M.F.A. in Creative Writing while working as a software engineer—bringing together two passions that have shaped her journey since her FCPS days.

A High School Experience Full of Exploration

Anna says one of the things she valued most about FCPS was having a safe and supportive environment to explore a variety of interests, both academic and extracurricular.

At TJ, those interests took her in many directions. She discovered a love of Latin, particularly poetry, and enjoyed planning events through student government. She joined the ensemble for TJ’s 2017 production of Les Misérables after a friend encouraged her to audition, and she also found a sense of community in the neuroscience senior research lab.

She remembers the many teachers who made an impact along the way, including Michael Auerbach, Maria Gilbert, Dr. Laura Locklear, Chuck de la Cuesta, Christine Conklin, Mark Hannum, and Suzette Henry.

From Mathematics to Creative Writing

After graduating from TJ, Anna attended Carnegie Mellon University, earning a B.S. in Mathematics in 2022. She continued exploring her academic interests throughout college and eventually began her career as a software engineer.

But writing remained an important part of her life.

After taking writing classes in New York City, Anna decided in 2024 to pursue a low-residency M.F.A. at Randolph College. 

“I have always been a writer, and being able to do this degree alongside my work as a software engineer is a literal dream,” Anna says.

Advice From Anna

When asked what she would tell her high school self, Anna’s advice is simple:

“Keep going, even when it’s hard. You know who you are, you know who raised you. If you stay true to yourself and your values and treat others with kindness and respect, the world will reflect that back to you.”

Anna’s journey is a great reminder that the interests we explore in high school don’t always lead us down a straight path—and they don’t have to. Sometimes, they become the building blocks for a life that brings together all the things we love.

Where is your FCPS journey taking you? We’d love to hear from more alumni! Share your story with the FCPS Alumni Network for a future Alumni Spotlight.