June 2016 Students of the Month
Amber Shin
A full International Baccalaureate diploma candidate for the class of 2016, Amber Shin is also a member of the National Honors Society. Her success is something she attributes to those who have supported her on her academic journey.
“The most significant thing that impacted my academic success was my support system,” shared Amber. “I had amazing mentors throughout my high school career who did an amazing job of guiding me through pretty much everything from freshman to senior year. They were really significant to my academic success and I can't thank them enough.”
In the fall Amber will attend Barnard College of Columbia University in Manhattan, New York, an opportunity she calls amazing.
“As of right now, I am still unsure of which career path I would like to take. I am interested in possibly majoring in either biochemistry or business and marketing, but I am open to pretty much whatever the future holds for me,” said Amber.
Her interest in biochemistry stems from her science teachers at Edmonds-Woodway.
“I can say with confidence that all the science teachers I've had really influenced my love and interest for biology and chemistry,” said Amber.
As far as her interest in business and marketing goes, her parents have influenced her the most.
“My mom never ever pushed me to do well in school. Instead of pushing me to be academically successful, my mom encouraged to do the best of my OWN abilities and constantly reminded me to be aware of my own limits,” said Amber gratefully.
Benjamin Yang
Senior Benjamin Yang will graduate this year as a full International Baccalaureate student and a 3.97 GPA; an impressive accomplishment of which he can be proud.
In addition to taking nine classes last semester, Benjamin is a member of the National Honors Society and the Tri-M Music Honors Society. He also has run varsity cross country all four years, including two years at the State Championships during his junior and senior years as well as varsity track for four years.
“I’m currently a trumpet player in wind ensemble and jazz band 1, but have played in various other bands all four years,” said Benjamin, adding that he was section leader his freshman and sophomore years.
His musical talent has not gone unrecognized. Benjamin won the “Outstanding Musicianship” award at the John Moadwad festival at Central Washington University.
In the fall, Benjamin will attend Penn State University as a Schreyer Honors College student where he will study meteorology.
“I’ve been intrigued by the weather since age 5,” said Benjamin who started with reading weather books. “I love observing the weather outdoors and the different geographical terrains.”
Benjamin said his mom has been the biggest influence on him to achieve his academic goals. He also said running has helped him to succeed as well.
“The physical and mental pain of races, workouts and hilly/long runs toughens me, which helps me endure academic challenges and, therefore, succeed,” said Benjamin. “In addition, running is a means of relaxation, so that I can get rid of stress and get fresh air before undertaking my next task.”
