Alaya Canales, a junior at NC, just started her first year working for The Chant. She joined this program to find ways to improve her writing, photography, and interviewing skills. She also hopes to get more involved in her school and meet new people. Her favorite styles of writing are persuasive and informative, as she is very straightforward, and loves to share her views regarding her passions. Outside of school, Canales is a part of NC’s Sports Aid Program, and manages soccer in the spring, as she hopes to pursue a career in sports medicine. She loves hanging out with friends, going to the gym and reading. She also has a part-time job, which she enjoys—sometimes. She’s very calm and collected at first glance, however, the more comfortable she gets the more extroverted she is. This year, Canales hopes to grow both as a person and academically. She wishes to discover new passions; and learn as much as she can.

Find her on Instagram @luv_alaya_.