N&O scholar-athlete: Christen Rogers, Franklin Academy softball
Christen Rogers, Franklin Academy softball
College choice: N.C. State.
Varsity sports: Softball.
Overall GPA: 4.91.
Favorite course: AP Calculus.
I was fascinated to learn: Pink and Blue were the original school colors of N.C. State, adopted from an early literary society on campus.
Most inspiring teacher: Mrs. K (Pamela Koloustroubis), my Calculus teacher and mentor throughout high school.
A book that impacted my life was: The Bible. The Bible has always been an important part of my life. I love to hear the Good News every week in scripture readings at Mass and when I read at home.
It’s hard to believe that...: I will be graduating. I am so excited to start my college adventure at N.C. State University as a first year engineering student in the W.I.S.E. and Scholars programs.
What epitomizes what a good American should be?: A person who is concerned for the family and community, lives up to their responsibilities, while also working to care for the environment and making the world a better place epitomizes what a good American should be today.
Education’s biggest challenge or problem: The biggest challenge in education today is teacher pay. Teachers are not nearly paid enough for the job they are asked to do. Many students would never consider going into the teaching profession because it is hard to raise a family today on a teacher’s salary in the country, and especially our state. Personally, my biggest challenge has been that my school does not offer enough classes and we are only able to take one online class per year. I believe if teacher pay was increased there would be much more opportunity for students to take classes and try out different fields of interest.
My favorite charity is: I have many favorite charities as I feel strongly about volunteering and helping the community. I have volunteered several hundred hours of service during my high school career. My most favorite charities are Catholic Parish Outreach, Tri-Area Ministries, SPCA, and Safe Space. I am currently working on my Girl Scout Gold Award with the SPCA of Franklin County.
Best movie: Maze Runner.
Whose life inspires you?: Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.
Three people you wish you could meet: Derek Jeter (or any Yankee), Luke Kuechly (or any Panther), Jesus.
Something you enjoy that would surprise people: Watching The Voice with my family.
I wish I had more time for: Reading and watching sporting events.
I wish I had been there for: Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
This story was originally published May 27, 2016 at 5:01 PM with the headline "N&O scholar-athlete: Christen Rogers, Franklin Academy softball."