Senior Spotlight: John Lambert’s Tehachapi Roots Lead Him to Princeton

John Lambert was surrounded by friends, even if they were only on a screen, when he learned he was headed to Princeton. Earlier this spring, the recent Tehachapi High School graduate joined a Zoom call with a close group of classmates so they could open their college decision letters together. When Lambert saw he had been accepted to one of the nation’s most prestigious universities, he was taken by the moment. 

“I was kind of speechless, but I was also very happy hearing some of my friends screaming too. It was definitely overwhelming, but also very, very exciting,” Lambert shared.

This fall, the co-valedictorian will move from the small mountain community to New Jersey to study molecular biology before pursuing medical school and a career as a physician. The opportunity follows years of academic achievement and healthcare-focused training completed while still in high school, including earning both a high school diploma and an Associate’s degree, a certificate in Allied Health and Emergency Medical Technology, Emergency Medical Technician training, and coursework in cardiac rhythm and dysrhythmia interpretation.

LEFT: Lambert poses with his Associate’s degree from Bakersfield College (Photo: Bakersfield College). RIGHT: Lambert and his father, Paul Lambert, celebrate his acceptance into Princeton (Photo: Lambert family).

Entering high school, Lambert had to learn how to advocate for himself.

“My biggest challenge was learning how to speak up and ask for help,” Lambert said. “But after a while, I came out of my shell and became more outgoing, engaged, and interactive.” 

He credits Tehachapi High School’s close-knit environment as a significant part of his success, particularly the support of his teachers and counselors, who have watched him grow up over the years.

Tehachapi High School Principal Cristina Libatique witnessed his success firsthand, describing him as an intelligent, driven, and friendly student with a good sense of humor.

“He is proof of what happens when clear ambition is paired with an unstoppable work ethic,” she said. “He didn’t just wait for the future to happen to him; he sprinted toward it at top speed.” 

Coming out of his shell also allowed him to form lasting friendships that made a meaningful impact on his time at Tehachapi High School.

“Having this devoted group of friends, teachers, and support staff by your side, cheering you on as you progress is truly the most incredible thing I could’ve asked for,” Lambert said. 

In his future career as a physician, he hopes to bring his passion for advocacy to the patients he serves. His former principal believes he is well prepared for that calling.

“I have no doubt that the same fast-paced, determined young man we see rushing down our hallways is going to make an incredible physician one day,” Libatique shared. “Princeton is getting a leader who doesn’t waste a single second, and we are honored to call him a Tehachapi Warrior.”

Lambert’s interest in Princeton began with the campus itself. He found similarities between the Ivy League university and his hometown’s natural beauty and quieter atmosphere. Princeton’s emphasis on undergraduate research and close faculty mentorship also made it an ideal fit.

He was particularly drawn to the university for what he described as its emphasis on personal freedom. He said Princeton provides students with the resources to explore their passions through independent research and exploration while also offering the support of professors, advisors, and upperclassmen to help guide them through the transition to adulthood.

“Being able to attend Princeton means the world to me,” Lambert said. 

LEFT: Lambert poses with his father, Paul Lambert, at Tehachapi High School’s graduation. RIGHT: Lambert enjoys a sunset with his friends on Tehachapi High School’s picturesque campus (Photos: Lambert family).

Lambert points to his signature on the Tehachapi High School senior banner.