Newman High School Honors Samantha Smith as Student of the Month

Samantha Smith, a senior at Newman Central Catholic High School, has been recognized as the Student of the Month for November 2023. This accolade highlights her academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to community service.

Passion for Learning and Teaching

In reflecting on her academic experiences, Smith identifies AP Statistics with Mrs. Connie Royer as the most engaging class she has taken. “She is the best teacher I have ever had,” Smith stated. “Mrs. Royer effectively teaches the material and ensures that we all understand it.” Smith appreciates the interactive nature of the class, noting that the activities are closely tied to the lessons, making the subject both interesting and enjoyable.

Looking ahead, Smith plans to pursue a degree in exercise science at a four-year university, with aspirations to attend the University of Alabama. Her long-term goal is to enter physical therapy school, driven by a newfound passion for the field after job-shadowing at ORS Physical Therapy in Dixon.

Extracurricular Engagement and Community Impact

Outside the classroom, Smith dedicates significant time to competitive gymnastics, training over 20 hours per week for more than 15 years. She has been competing for nine years, a commitment that has instilled in her a strong work ethic, time management skills, and dedication. Additionally, Smith is involved with the Dixon Sister Cities Association, a program that has allowed her to form lasting friendships and gain cultural insights through travel, including a trip to Herzberg, Germany.

Smith also highlights a memorable experience from her junior year: participating in a religious retreat known as Kairos. “This experience was the best and most memorable one yet from my high school career,” she remarked. Now, she has the honor of serving as a Kairos leader for this year’s junior class, further contributing to her school’s community.

As she prepares for graduation, Smith expresses her hopes for the future. “I want to graduate with my bachelor’s degree in exercise science and then go on to physical therapy school,” she said. “Physical therapy has become a passion of mine.” With her commitment to academics and community involvement, Samantha Smith exemplifies the qualities that Newman Central Catholic High School seeks to celebrate through this recognition.