🎓Salutatorian #10 Leah Merriman
➡️ Post Secondary School: Undecided
đź“š Field of Study: Medicine / Law
🦓 Began at CPS: Kindergarten
đź”´ What advice would you give your freshman self?
"I would tell my freshman self that you’ll figure things out as you go. The challenges you face will shape who you become in ways you don’t always see in the moment. You’ll definitely learn how to fake it till you make it."
đź”´ What has the journey to this honor taught you about yourself?
"This journey has taught me that having a drive toward something is never wasted. I’ve learned to be more open to new experiences and to trust that the effort I put in each day adds up in the end."
đź”´ What does this accomplishment mean to you?
"This accomplishment means a lot to me because it reflects everything it took to reach this point. It feels like something my younger self would be proud of—a reminder of how far I’ve come and that I can continue pursuing what I set my mind to."
đź”´ What was the hardest part you had to overcome to achieve this honor?
"The hardest part was pushing through challenges that weren’t always visible to others. Managing academics alongside everything else required more than I ever expected, and many times, simply showing up took more effort than people realized."
đź”´ What are you most proud of in your high school career?
"I’m most proud of my ability to stay involved and keep pushing forward. I continued to pursue what I love while balancing academics, extracurriculars, and clubs, even through health challenges. Playing three varsity sports and closing out my senior year in musical theatre made my experience especially meaningful."
đź”´ Looking back, what does being a Zebra mean to you?
"Being a Zebra means being in an environment where people know you and support you. I’ve built impactful connections with both friends and teachers who have supported me along the way. Plus, having a zebra as a mascot is pretty cool."
đź”´ What ELEMENTARY staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how? (Catalayah)
"Mrs. Hurt and Mrs. McQueen. Mrs. Hurt made school feel exciting and welcoming, and Mrs. McQueen provided steady support that I always respected."
đź”´ What JUNIOR HIGH staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how?
"Mrs. James and Mr. Knoke. Mrs. James created a supportive learning environment, and Mr. Knoke always made me laugh and reminded me to smile every day."
đź”´ What HIGH SCHOOL staff member made the biggest impact on your life and how?
"Mr. Riggs. He believed in me from day one in Biomed and helped me grow my interest in healthcare while always pushing me to aim higher."
đź”´ Activities you have been involved in:
"Athletics (Varsity Volleyball, Tennis, Golf), FCA, National Honor Society, Student Council, World Language Club, ZUAC, Concurrent, Musical Theatre, Biomed Club, FUZE, Interact Club"
đź”´ Honors / Awards:
"Student of the Month x2 (Freshman & Junior year), Honor Roll x4, Elks Lodge Awards, Regional Championships in Volleyball and Tennis"
đź”´ Scholarships Awarded:
"Claremore Alumni Scholarship and multiple merit-based scholarships"
đź”´ What is the ONE thing you absolutely take with you to college?
"My ability to live off hopes and dreams."