Dean Cook is a 15-year-old sophomore who is involved in Journalism at AHS. Cook joined Journalism because "photography has been a huge part of my life... taking pictures documents moments. I use photos to savor things, people, and moments." He has also been interested in creativity, freedom, and the social aspect of the activity. "I like the social aspect of it because I can talk to people I never really talk to. I love how Journalism puts people together," he said. For Cook, Journalism is a way to get away from home. "It keeps me busy, and is like a second home to me," Cook said. "Journalism makes me feel safe."

Cook is also involved in Archery, Cross Country, Track, Band, Speech, and Debate. Cook joined Debate class, "for an elective, and competed in one tournament. When I went to the tournament, I enjoyed myself and kept doing it. When I dived deeper and deeper into it, I found it like a second home to me too." After high school, Cook wants to go into something that deals with music but doesn't know exactly what. Cook said, "I just don’t want to get behind a desk and waste my life away when I could be doing something that I love and want to do." If Cook had to choose something to be when he is older, it would be a radio broadcaster.

Cook's friends and family would describe him as chaotic, all over the place, and sarcastic. But deep down he is very kind and respectful. Cook's hobbies are running, music, reading, baking, and collecting vinyl. Music is definitely a big passion for Cook. It started when he was nine or 10 years old. He remembers his dad had his own drum kit and told me to “do whatever I want with it”. He also said, "Reading is a genuinely good hobby and people overlook it, but I like reading. Sometimes I just don’t have time to always read." Cook loves to bake! You've probably seen him walking around the hallways carrying a Tupperware filled with delicious treats. "I'm mainly a cookie guy and take advantage of making them. I put a lot of time and effort into them." Cook also collects vinyl, a recent hobby, and said, "It's a very good hobby, but an expensive one." 

Bio by Jody Williams