Q: What was/is your favorite part of West?

A: My favorite part of West is drumline. I’ve been in drumline for four years and I just enjoy it. We are a pretty tight group, so it is fun.

Q: What do you play in drumline?

A: I play quince. There are five drums in one instrument and they are heavy, but fun.

Q: Why do you play drums?

A: Mainly because it is fun. I have always enjoyed it since I was younger. I’ve always looked forward to continue to do it.

Q: Where are you going to college and what are you studying?

A: I’m going to the University of Iowa and I have no idea what I want to study. Right now I am thinking something in business, but I’m not sure what yet.

Q: Are you going to play band in college?

A: I plan to be in the Hawkey drumline. 

Q: Who was/is your favorite teacher/class in high school?

A: My favorite teacher is Mr. Flaherty [social studies teacher Joe Flaherty]. We have a lot of fun. I am a TA [teacher’s assistant] for him right now. But my favorite class is band.

Q: What is your favorite or funniest memory from high school?

A: My favorite memory is calling Mr. Flaherty, flare bear. He hates it. It just came out of my mouth one day.

Q: What all have you participated in throughout all of your high school career?

A:  I have been in band, drumline, jazz band, musicals for Oklahoma!, Guys and Dolls, and [for] Seussical, I played pit. I did the variety show with drumline, NHS [National Honors Society], Junior Rotarian. I am a representative for West’s school board, and I did golf for two years.

Q: Would you go back and change something in the last four years if you could?

A: No, because I believe everything happens for a reason so I wouldn’t want to change anything.

Q: What are you most excited for, for the rest of your senior year?

A: Mainly just being with my friends while I can, before we all go to college and go our separate ways.

Q: What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?

A: Don’t base what you think high school is going to be like off of the movies or what other people tell you.

Q: Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

A: Hopefully I have a job, not sure what in. But making some money and just living a happy life.

Q: Who would you thank for helping you get through high school?

A: Probably Mr. Kretchmer [former band director]. He retired last year but he was always there for me when I needed anything. He taught me a lot of stuff, including life lessons, not just band.

Q: What have you learned in the last four years?

A: I guess how to be a better person. Getting put in certain leadership roles, whether it be being captain of the drum line or President of NHS [National Honors Society], it just formed me as a person.