Student Spotlight

Name:  Leah Ray

Age:  17

Grade:  11

State:  Texas

Member MHS Since:  2023

Describe why you enjoy math:  I enjoy math because it is like a puzzle.  The formulas themselves are consistent and my job is to recognize which formulas are relevant to the task at hand and then to apply them correctly.

Describe how you anticipate using math in your future:  I plan to use math in my future career as either a Chemist or Chemical Engineer.  I like researching how elements react with each other and studying what  interesting things can result from experimenting with them.

I have been involved in my community through the following service projects:  I teach ballet at our local co-op, serve at a local  women and children’s night shelter, mentor robotics teams, volunteer at a martial arts studio, serve as Student Council President, and help as a Teacher’s Aide in our Religious School.  Learning is a good start but actually applying what I have learned is much more rewarding.

My favorite project was: teaching ballet because it taught me about patience, managing large groups, leadership, and how to think on my feet while under stress at the same time that it helped me to grow as a dancer.

I have set the following goals for myself for the next:
 

• 1 year:  Graduate from high school with honors and be offered a full four year scholarship at a prominent university with a strong Chemistry Department.

 

• 5 years:  Graduate from college with honors and prepare for an advanced degree.

My parents have inspired me to consider:  studying things that truly interest me instead of just what is easy or pays well.  I want to grow my mind and not simply select a career that may not ultimately be fulfilling.  As a result I have changed my career plans several times.  I think that as long as my basic skills are sound the right path will ultimately open up for me.

My favorite subject in school is, or has been:  Chemistry

My favorite extra-curricular activity is, or has been:  Dance

The most challenging thing I have ever experienced is:  surviving my five hour martial arts belt test.

My greatest accomplishment to date has been:  staying focused in my studies enough to get a solid PSAT score but still enjoying all the other things that I love doing, both academic or otherwise.