Reia Tuazon, a recent graduate of Bloomfield Hills High School and current student at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, took the AP 2-D Art and Design exam in Spring 2022. Of all the students around the world who took this challenging, college-level examination, Tuazon is one of just 197 students who earned every point possible.

Tuazon reflects, “When I was building my AP 2D-design portfolio, I didn't expect to get a 5, much less a perfect score. I was simply painting watercolor pieces to the best of my ability, learning from each painting and each critique. It was a major shock; I actually found out while shopping for stain remover at Target, so I was freaking out in the detergent aisle. I owe much of my improvement to my sister Akira - who recently graduated from CCS - she gave honest critique and taught me how to improve my technique. I also owe many thanks to my AP Art teacher, Ms. Basirico, who told me in the beginning of the year that I wasn't painting enough layers on my watercolor pieces, which followed me through the entire year.” 

Art teacher Tessa Basirico shares, “Reia was an active, outgoing presence in class with a very perceptive and sensitive ability to critique her peers and remain supportive as well as supported. Also, she was able to take critique without feeling criticized. All of these things make for a great learner, and will help her in all of her future endeavors.”

Currently at JWU, Tuazon is studying another form of art: baking. “Being in so many different art classes has taught me color, form, and design, which I believe will help specifically in my chocolates and sugars class at JWU. Desserts are simply another form of art that I need to master.”

Many congratulations to Reia Tuazon on this remarkable achievement!