Discus Award Winner
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PHOTOS
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Melissa McCoy
12th Grade, FL
ATTRIBUTES
Academics
I am addicted to learning, and I go above and beyond what is required of me. For each new topic I'm intrigued with, I research it on my own to learn more. I strive to excel in each academic endeavor I take. I scored a 33 on the ACT and take the most rigorous course load. I was awarded Highest Merit since 9th grade with my 4.56 weighted GPA. I was inducted into the National Honor Society and was awarded the Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award from the University of Rochester along with the Yale Book Award. I am taking 3 AP classes and 1 Honors class this year. Last year I took 3 AP classes and 2 Honors classes. I received the AP Scholar award which is given to those who receive an average of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.
Faith
Being a Christian following wholeheartedly after Jesus Christ has been the central focus of my life since I can remember. I was brought up in a Christian home with strong passionate parents as my role-models in faith. I faithfully attend church each week and devote time in prayer everyday. I stay in God's Word - the Bible - to grow my relationship with Him and discover His will for my life. Because of my passion for faith, I use my talents of playing the piano and violin to worship and praise God. I have played on my church praise team since I was in middle school. I currently play violin, and my dad plays the drums. I also play on my school praise team, leading worship on the keyboard. I plan to someday go on a medical missions trip to share the Good News of salvation to those in need!
Arts
Music has helped shape me as a person. I have played piano since 1st grade and violin since 4th grade. I take weekly private lessons on both instruments. I won the Grand Champion Award for level 8 for Student Day - a county-wide piano competition. I also play first violin in the Sarasota Youth Philharmonic Program. I have been in this program since 5th grade, starting with the beginning orchestra. Teaching violin and piano lessons is also a great passion of mine. I love to share the gift of music! I have attended music camps each summer of high school. Music has not just been a fun hobby, but it has changed my life: I have done better in academics because of music, I have gained discipline in each area of my life, and I have made great life-long friends through sharing music together.
