May Magazines 2018 89128 | Page 41

A Step Above 2018 Sarah James The Meadows School senior Sarah James has a dream to mold young minds as a teacher and inspire others through the written word; a dream that’s quickly becoming reality. She’s already been a co- teacher and penned a book, after all, and appears to be continuing along this fast-track with a powerful blend of positivity and enthusiasm. In her own words, “While it’s easy to be pessimistic, nothing will change if you don’t hope for it and actively pursue it.” Her hope is for a happy future, peace, safety and a good life, and as a determined young woman of action, she’s taking it one exciting chapter at a time, making Sarah James– A Step Above. G.P.A.: 4.62 Theatre/Clubs/Activities: • Macbeth–Wyrd Sister, 2016 • Seussical the Musical–Ensemble Member, 2016-2017 • Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat–Wife/Ensemble, 2017 • Romeo and Juliet–Gregory, 2018 • National Honor Society, 2016-2018; Secretary • National French Honor Society, 2014-2017 • French Club, 2014-2018 • Women’s Empowerment Club, 2014-2018 • Literary Podcast Club, 2016-2018; President • Theatre Club, 2014-2018 • Honor Code Committee Member, 2016-2018 • Mustang Writing Center Tutor, 2016-2017; Head Tutor, 2017-2018 • Swing Dance Club, 2017-2018 Scholarships/Awards/Community Service: • University of Portland President’s Scholarship • Excellence in Intro to Literature and Composition Award, 2014-2015 • Excellence in Yearbook Award, 2016-2017 • Excellence in French Film and Culture Award, 2016-2017 • National French Contest Silver Medal, 2014-2016 • Gypsy Robe Ensemble Award–Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, 2017 • Three Square Food Bank, 2016-2018 • Safe Nest, 2015-2016 • Miracle League, 2016-2018 • Clean the World, 2015-2017 • Grace in the Desert Nursery Volunteer, 2014-2016 • Dawson College Bound Summer Volunteer, 2014-2016 What did you learn about yourself while co-teaching at middle school? “Knowing that I am capable of being a teacher is the most fulfilling feeling there is, and when my students told me how much they enjoyed the class, I became confident that teaching is something I could do. A good teacher can change a child’s life forever, and if I can be that teacher for just one student, then I will be fulfilled.” Your future as a teacher looks bright, but how does writing fit into your master plan? “Being a writer is a dream of mine, and although it may not become my profession, if writing remains a constant in my life, I will be happy.” You attribute your success to strong relationships. Can you elaborate? “Being successful isn’t about doing everything yourself. It is about utilizing your resources to the best of your abilities, admitting when you need help, and helping others. None of these things would be possible without those around me who I know will be there for me because I have been there for them.” Tell us about the book you authored. “I wrote a children’s book about the history of women for The Meadows Lower School. This was a project started by Women’s Empowerment Club, and I immedi- ately wanted to participate. The book highlights milestones in women’s rights all around the world and is meant to inspire young children to stand up for their rights and the rights of others.” May/June 2018 41