Discus Awards

Faith

I have been told life without cause is life without effect. I have always identified my faith as the cause that inspires action.

I have attended early morning seminary at 6 AM every morning for four years, and will graduate from the program this spring. I have special recognition for reading the Old and New Testament, other biblical documents, memorizing over 100 verses, and 90% attendance. Getting up at 4:30 in the morning is extremely hard, but it is a huge blessing.

I have been a youth leader for over five years, working with young girls. We talk about the importance of individual worth and divine nature. I also have the Personal Progress award for over 100 hours of service and personal work, and I speak in my church worship. I am preparing to serve an 18 month mission for my church

Community Service

When I was eleven years old my father accepted a position in an inner-city non-profit church. My family traveled over an hour every Sunday and Wednesday to help the families. This contributed to the passion I have for service work today. Seeing the desperation and hope there I knew that I needed to serve. Our family sacrificed a lot of time and money, but if it was easy everyone would do it.

I volunteer over 5 hours a week in church programs alone. I also participate in the cities disaster relief reaction plan. In April of 2011 Alabama was devastated by the tornadoes. I spent over 20 hours every weekend helping with disaster relief by removing rubble, salvaging possessions, and handing out necessities. I tutor locally and also babysit for those who wish to do service, but have children.

Other Achievements

All of my high school years I have been a member of the Varsity High School debate team. My Junior and Senior Years I have served as the Debate Captain. This included helping with practice rounds, research, as well as judging at Novice tournaments.

I am a member of the National Forensics League, and have excelled in this program. I won first place in the 2011 University of Alabama Tournament. I placed at the Samford University tournament, and was placed in the top ten for the 2011 Deep South District Tournament.

With each tournament that my school goes to I will spend 20-50 hours preparing cases and helping the other students. I do this because I really believe that debate helps us in so many ways. It builds confidence, understanding, and helps students know how to present themselves.