Student Spotlights

Will – John Overton Comprehensive High School – Class of 2013

Though it is not hard to find words to describe him, honest, humble, compassionate, bright, funny all come to mind, Will is one-of-a-kind. He is the type of student who teachers do not forget and feel glad to hear from whenever there is some news. Will's list of accomplishments includes (but is not limited to): Beta Club chapter president, member of HOSA (Health Occupations Students Association), and Co-Captain of the first Science Olympiad team his school has had in 23 years. He helped begin a rocketry group within the SSMV and has participated in numerous extra activities and competitions just for fun. His peers voted him class representative this year and he also tutors "anyone who needs help" and that is probably one of the best ways to describe who he is, always willing to help and generous with his time and talents. We feel fortunate that we will not have to say goodbye for long when he graduates because he will be attending Vanderbilt University and, we hope, stopping by often to say hello.

"I feel that SSMV has given me the opportunity to actually engage in a real laboratory setting, and it has shown me that I really do want to go into a lab-focused career. The hands-on practical experience is only enhanced by the lectures we are given, to really show us how science is conducted, and how it can be applied to the real world."

Jen – Hume Fogg Academic Magnet School – Class of 2014

Students in the class of 2014 have especially high standards for themselves and Jen is no exception. Her schoolwork comes first and this has helped her win awards for Algebra II and World History (among others) but she is also an avid athlete, swimming the 220 IM and a musician; she plays the piano, alto sax, drums, and sings. She participates in her school community as a member of Mu Alpha Theta and the French honor society, and her church community as a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Laudate Youth Choir. We are especially impressed by Jen's thoughtfulness which she expressed in her comments about the SSMV:

"I am astounded each time I come to SSMV by the level of ingenuity of the students and faculty as well as the quality of discussion. SSMV thrives on the accumulation of so many different types of interests and perspectives. As a result, I am constantly being exposed to amazing ideas that I would have never imagined seeing. All of these experiences have not only excited me for my future in science, but allowed me to incorporate critical thinking and other skills I have gained into my high school education as well!"

Camron – Martin Luther King, Jr. Magnet School – Class of 2015

We have always seen something special in Camron but this year, during his sophomore research project, his strong ability to maintain equanimity and keep calm amid the stress of having to complete a group research project on time has shone through. Even as his course load intensifies, he continues to play piano as a member of the Guild Honor Society for Piano, participate in student government, and you may see him on the soccer field refereeing games on the weekends. He is also a dedicated member of the debate team and has received 2nd place and been invited to the National Tournament for the Urban Debate League.

"SSMV has better prepared me for my local school by showing me how to apply science. With this type of knowledge, it is much easier to grasp scientific concepts. It has also changed the way I view science. The insight that I have gained has shown me how I can apply science to everyday life, and has inspired to pursue a career in the medical field. I definitely believe that what I have and will learn at SSMV can be used in my future."

Rebecca – Martin Luther King Academic Magnet School – Class of 2016

As we get to know each member of the freshman class, we are impressed by what an interesting and diverse group they are. Rebecca shares strong leadership and academic skills with her classmates but also brings her own unique talents to the group. At MLK she runs both the 400 and 4x400 meter and cheers for her school. She is also a dedicated member of the Locust Ridge Primitive Baptist Church where she helps with hosting church fundraisers on the weekends and where she is a member of the church choir.

"SSMV prepares me and gives me the chance to gain more knowledge about my math and science courses. Every Monday that I leave the class I feel that I have learned something new."