Royal Voices: Benny Englund
Every student has a voice and through our new student spotlight feature, we will be highlighting some of the many diverse, creative and accomplished voices of our students with Royal Voices.
The next student we are spotlighting is senior Benny Englund, who started at TFA in Kindergarten. Benny is involved in Band, Choir and Theatre, serving as the Fine Arts Committee Leader.
What were the reasons you or your parents chose The First Academy?
Are you involved in extracurricular activities?
I am part of the marching band, theatre troupe, and choir at TFA. The Marching Royals have won a lot of first place of awards in the 1A and 2A categories. My favorite theatre memory is winning Top Honors for a small group musical at the state level my sophomore year.
Which colleges are you planning to apply to or have you applied to thus far?
I have applied to Florida State University, Florida Southern College, and the University of Central Florida. I plan on also applying to Rollins College and Stetson University.
What do you plan to study in college and what are your long-term career goals?
I plan on studying Management, Business, and Music. Hopefully, I will end up working somewhere in the music industry.
Who are some of your favorite TFA teachers, and why?
Some of my favorite TFA teachers are Mr. Snyder, Mrs. Headley, and Mrs. McWilliams. Fine Arts have been such a big part of my high school career. These teachers have made such an impact in my life and they have all shared and supported my love of the arts.
In one sentence, what did being a student at The First Academy mean to you?
Being a student at TFA meant being a part of a family that cares for you no matter what.
How has TFA made a difference in, or impacted your life?
TFA has taught me that it is important to have people that really care about you and support you. Luckily, I have always had people supporting me at TFA.
Do you feel that The First Academy has prepared you for life after graduation?
I definitely feel like TFA has prepared me for life after graduation. I am excited to see what college God has in store for me.
What is your favorite memory at TFA?
My favorite memory at TFA is going to the Florida State Thespian Festival in my sophomore year. It was so much fun to spend a weekend with a bunch of my friends and make a lot of new friends too.
How have you grown in your walk with Christ since coming to TFA?
I have grown tremendously in my walk with Christ at TFA. My Bible teachers in middle and high school have had a high impact on my relationship with the Lord and they have prepared me to move into a new chapter of my life.
What was one spiritual insight you gained at TFA that has impacted your life the most?
I have realized that God never gives you more than you are capable of handling. Even when I have felt overwhelmed, God has given me the strength to carry on through tough times. After every trial ad storm, I feel a sense of accomplishment and can thank God for teaching me something new.
What does the school year them, “Greatest of These is Love,” mean to you and how have you incorporated in your day to day life this year?
Especially in this strange time, it is important to stay connected and love others. This school year, I am doing my best to connect with my peers and create new and meaningful relationships. Even though we may have to love from a distance, we can still love those around us and glorify God in the process.