COMMITMENT: Anthony Solis has become an icon on the Poly High School Campus as a DJ.
By Micah Pierce, Staff Writer
A student enters the Poly campus, then, in the distance, they hear it. “All Star” by Smash Mouth is playing, and they attempt to identify its source. It is DJ Anthony,with his trusty speaker in hand. Anthony Solis (12) is a well known student at Poly. In fact, most students know him as “DJ Anthony” because many have witnessed him strolling throughout Poly, playing music on his trademark speaker.. Despite having a widespread reputation at Poly, Solis did not originally attend school here. He transferred to Poly from Modesto High School two years ago at the end of his sophomore year. He began playing music for the crowds at Modesto, but he never quite received the level of recognition that he does here at Poly.
Solis has grown so devoted to his role as Poly’s DJ that he strictly adheres to a daily schedule he has created, all to benefit those that listen to his music. “I help people get their day started the right way in the morning. At lunch I give them a boost after four long class periods, and I play music one last time for them as I’m leaving campus,” Solis said. This is exactly what happens with Daniel Rameshjan (10) when he sees Solis. “Anthony is always a welcome sight. Whenever I see him soldiering on with his signature speaker, no matter the conditions, it just rejuvenates me,” Rameshjan said. Solis truly does put a lot of effort and thought into the music he plays for the school. The music that he chooses depends on not only what people are listening to and what happens to be popular at the time, but also on the time of year. With Valentine’s Day having passed, Solis decided to shift gears and start playing music that embraces the spirit of the holiday.
Providing the Poly campus with a steady stream of music isn’t Solis’ only commitment, however. Solis also volunteers for the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) in downtown Riverside. He helps any potential passengers of RTA buses by providing them with information on the bus fares, routes, stops, and pickup times. Solis is dedicated to making both the Poly campus and the city of Riverside more friendly and inviting environments. After Solis graduates from high school, he plans on attending Riverside City College downtown, and eventually going into law enforcement to keep on improving the community.