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Central Class of 2016 - Jansen, Moyna are top graduates

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By Pam Reinig

Register Editor

 

The Central Class of 2016 will have two valedictorians. Jacob Jansen and Carissa Moyna will both graduate with 4.0 grade point averages.

It has been a Register tradition to feature the top graduating seniors. Here are the answers Jacob and Carissa gave to our questions.

We congratulate all members of the Class of 2016, who will receive their diplomas during the June 5 commencement ceremony, which begins at 2 p.m. at the high school gym.

Jacob Jansen

Mr. Yanda has informed me that you are one of two top graduates at Central. What does it mean to you to have achieved that distinction?

Being awarded co-valedictorian is a true honor. Knowing I’ve made it this far with a perfect GPA is honestly a big sigh of relief. It’s been a lot of work, but it definitely has been worth it. 

What are your outside interests/hobbies beyond extra-curricular activities?

I enjoy running, fishing, hunting, watching the Cubs and Packers, writing, and being around my friends. 

How did you balance studying with everything else?

 Up until my last semester of high school, there really wasn’t a night where I didn’t go home and study or do homework. I had to make my homework the number one priority to maintain a 4.0. I’m also involved in a lot of activities, so having a schedule and sticking to it is really the key to my success. 

 What have been your favorite and least favorite classes, and why?

 My favorite class is by far global science. I love Ms. Gritzner. She has taught me so many skills whether they be science or even life skills. I also like the criteria of the global science class. I’ve been able to make a difference and learn how to work with people through it as well. 

I don’t think I really have a least favorite class. I credit a lot of my success to wanting to be at school and learn. Although, I’ve taken a lot of online college classes. Not having the face-to-face teacher everyday has been a challenge. 

How do you think you have benefitted by attending a smaller school most or all of your academic life?

 I truly value the relationships I’ve formed through a small school. A small school has given me a lot of opportunity to be in leadership opportunities and become a more well rounded student. 

What honors have you received?

I’ve been awarded KCRG student of the month, had articles published in the gazette, and track and cross country awards too.

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans are to attend Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. I hope to attend for four years and participate on the school’s cross country and track team. I also plan to involve myself in Catholic ministry and other clubs. I am not sure what my major will be, but I am leaning towards studying political science. The current presidential race intrigues me, and I think politics will help my communication skills. I also want to study biology and chemistry to get a better understanding of science topics. All in all, I hope to continue to become a well-rounded student, so I can succeed in the work force. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

  I really enjoy school. I like going to class and learning, so I plan to attend graduate school to further my education. Ideally, I will be studying sustainability. 

What advice do you have for other Central students?

My advice for other Central students is to get involved. Even though you are super busy balancing grades and extracurricular activities, I think a busy student is a more focused student. That is why I plan to run in college. I won’t become a professional athlete by any means, but I want to stay involved to not have that extra free time. You become better at time management and you have more success. Also, even for me, school isn’t always fun. In fact, its usually quite hard, but when you find a joy to be at school, the challenges don’t seem near as frightening. 

Carissa Moyna

Mr. Yanda has informed me that you are one of the top graduates at Central. What does it mean to you to have achieved that distinction? 

It is such an honor to receive this distinction.  It feels rewarding that all my hard work paid off with my education.  

What are your outside interests/hobbies beyond extra-curricular activities? 

I enjoy reading books whenever I can, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

How did you balance studying with everything else? 

It’s really about priorities. I made school my top priority, and I took advantage of the few nights I was at home. Then I was able to keep on top of my homework.  

What have been your favorite and least favorite classes, and why?

My favorite class over the years has been band. It is really relaxing to start my day by playing music and my classmates are really fun. My least favorite class was freshmen science only because I can remember it was the hardest semester test I have ever taken. I can still remember the challenging questions to this day.  

How do you think you have benefitted by attending a smaller school most or all of your academic life?

By attending a small school, I have gotten the chance to participate in numerous activities. Through this variety of activities, I have made friends with a number of different people. I have also gotten close with my teachers, and overall the small school setting has made me a well- rounded individual.  

What honors have you received? 

I attained a 4.0 grade point average and was the 2015 Instrumental Student of the Year. I also was chosen for the Academic All-State Basketball Team and IGHSAU All-star Senior Game. 

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans after graduation are to attend Iowa State University for engineering.  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself either in graduate school for environmental engineering or working at an environmental engineering firm. 

 What advice do you have for other Central students? 

My educational advice would be to remember that it isn’t the smartest student that gets good grades; it’s the student that works the hardest. For school advice I would say never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. This may be talking to someone you have only seen in the halls, dressing up crazy for Homecoming Week, or trying out one of the numerous opportunities our school counselor sends to us. These are the times that will make memories and help you to develop into the bright individuals you all are.  

Anything else you’d like to add? 

I just want to thank all my parents, teachers, and friends for their support to help me reach this achievement.  

 

 
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