Senior Spotlight: Marilyn Waldrop
What grade level did you start at The First Academy?
9th
What were the reasons you or your parents chose The First Academy?
My parents chose The First Academy because they knew I would be receiving the best education while in a Christian environment.
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 am the President of the Wounded Warrior Club, I am involved in the Comfort Club, and I also serve as a Chaplain.
Which colleges are you planning to apply to or have you applied to thus far?
I have applied to Clemson University, the University of Georgia, University of Mississippi, University of Tennessee, Mississippi State University, Louisiana State University, and Texas A&M.
What do you plan to study in college and what are your long-term career goals?
I plan to study either Business Management or Marketing. I am currently unsure of my longterm career goals.
Who are some of your favorite TFA teachers, and why? These can be K4-12.
There are so many TFA teachers who have impacted me throughout my four years. To name a few: Mr. & Mrs. Harvey for always putting a smile on my face. Mr. Hudson, Mr. Kavanagh, and Dr. Toenges for deepening my faith and understanding in Christ. Mrs. Wasylik for always caring for me and encouraging me since freshmen year. Also, although he’s not a teacher, Mr. Rose has been a constant role model in my life and has helped me to become a better leader. All of the teachers and faculty members have shaped me into the person I am today.
In one sentence, what did being a student at The First Academy mean to you?
Being a student at TFA means upholding Christian standards and characteristics while preparing ourselves for our next steps in life.
How has TFA made a difference in, or impacted your life?
TFA has always been a safe place in times of hardship and has helped me to grow into the person I am today. TFA has also granted me many opportunities that I would not have had at any other school.
Do you feel that The First Academy has prepared you for life after graduation?
The First Academy has definitely prepared me spiritually and academically for life after graduation.
What is your favorite memory at TFA?
My favorite memory with TFA was attending Snowball Express. This event is hosted by the Gary Sinise Foundation and enables Gold Star Families to experience Disney World. It was truly a heartwarming event and brought a smile to my face when I saw the kids so joyful to be at Disney World. I was blessed to be a part of that event my Junior and Senior year.
How have you grown in your walk with Christ since coming to TFA?
I have grown in my walk with Christ since coming to TFA because of the many teachers who have shared their testimonies and have brought many insights in scripture.
What was one spiritual insight you gained at TFA that has impacted your life the most?
One spiritual insight that has impacted my life the most is that we are all going to struggle and face hardships in this life. But I know that the testing of my faith will produce perseverance, enabling me to become complete, lacking nothing. During trials and temptations, we have two choices. Either run from God or run to God. When you choose to run to God, you are choosing to put your trust in Him. Doing so will relieve yourself from any anxiety, fear, depression, confusion, resentment, etc! When you choose Him, you are deepening your faith in Him.
What does the school year theme, “Stronger Together,” mean to you and how have you incorporated in your day to day life this year?
“Stronger Together” means that when individuals come together they are more capable to accomplish something great. I have incorporated this into my life by becoming more inclusive with people – reaching out and being invitational. Stronger Together prompts unity and as Christians, we are all prompted to spread the Gospel. When we unite we are best equipped to accomplish this goal. We are all one in Christ Jesus. Therefore, Christ calls us to become unified, we work better when we are together. Romans 12:4-5 says, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”