Grant Spears: Senior Spotlight

What a Grade Level did you start at The First Academy? 

8th

What were the reasons you or your Parents chose The First Academy? 

They did not like the public school I was zoned for.

Are you involved in extracurricular activities? If so, what are they and have you received awards in these activities? (These can be affiliated with TFA or outside of school) 

I’m in marching band where I’ve been the Drum Major since sophomore year. I also received the marching leadership award and received superiors while performing both “Maple Leaf Rag” and “Claire De Lune”.

Which colleges have you applied to and which ones have you been accepted to thus far? 

I have applied to UF, FSU, Samford, UCF, and Georgetown. I’ve been accepted into all of them except Georgetown, which I am still waiting to hear back from.

What do you plan to study in college and what are your long-term career goals? 

I plan to study Political Science and possibly Foreign Relations. After which I plan to attend law school.

Have you received any college scholarships? If so, which ones? (Or, which ones are you currently nominated for) 

I’ve received the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship.

Who are some of your favorite TFA teachers, and why? These can be K4-12.

My favorite teachers at TFA have been Mrs. Wasylik, Ms. Damron, Mr. Harrison, and Mrs. McWilliams. All of these teachers have been so exceptional because they don’t allow any of their students to become complacent in their learning but rather push them to understand every aspect of what they’re learning.

In one sentence, what did being a student at The First Academy mean to you? 

TFA allowed me to grow in my faith and academics.

How has TFA made a difference in, or impacted your life? 

Having Christian teachers has provided me with great role models for leading a Christian life into adulthood.

Do you feel that The First Academy has prepared you for life after graduation?

I believe that TFA has greatly prepared me for college, and more so, did an extraordinary job at helping me get into college via the guidance counselors.

What is your favorite memory at TFA? 

Being on the homecoming court my senior year.

How have you grown in your walk with Christ since coming to TFA? 

Because of TFA’s Christian environment, my faith was allowed to flourish specifically in classes like Mr. Kavanaughs and Dr. Toenges.

What was one spiritual insight you gained at TFA that has impacted your life the most? 

While at TFA I’ve specifically been exposed to the idea of God’s faithfulness even in times of trouble. The best example of this is how I was particularly upset when my parents told me I had to switch schools but now, 5 years later, I’m very thankful for this school. This concept of God’s sovereignty inspired me so much that I decided to write my senior thesis on it.