Senior year is a year for looking backward as well as looking forward, and for Maleah Roberts (12), it’s the year for reveling in the impact she’s had on her school and the future she’s so thoughtfully planning. In her high school life so far, Roberts has been engaged in so many activities and leadership roles that reflect her heart for growth, caring for others, and her faith.
“I’ve been involved in school by being in Singers. I’m on the FCA leadership team. I’m in Anchor Club, SHAC, and NHS,” Roberts said.
Through these clubs, she’s been enabled to investigate different aspects of life at school—ranging from the arts and spiritually-based leadership to service and scholastics. For Roberts, being involved in so many groups isn’t about being busy; it’s about living her values and being an influence for something positive on those around her. She desires that through being involved, she’s “left a good impact and… let Jesus Christ shine through [her],” Roberts said.
The acknowledgement of her classmates by way of homecoming nomination has been a special validation of the individual she aspires to be. Her nomination speaks not only to her participation but the respect and gentleness she extends toward others. “It makes me feel happy that people voted for me for homecoming court, that they know I am a good person,” Roberts said.
Inquired about the plans for the homecoming dance later on, Roberts disclosed that she has already picked out her dress. The dress appears to suit her bubbly personality as she gets set for the gala night with her classmates.
“Yes, I’ve selected my dress. It’s royal blue with clusters of sparkles on it,” Roberts said.
Beneath the traditions and the celebrations lies the heart of Roberts. She thinks about the future. She plans to go to college, majoring in elementary education and minoring in special education. It’s a clear vision for the future born of a love for teaching kids and caring for children, something that energizes her at school daily.
Her drive to succeed stems from a deep personal motivation. “What’s driven me is [that] I want to have a good life after this with like my future career and family, so it’s driven me to want to succeed more,” Roberts said.
Robert’s commitment to her goals shows the maturity and determination she has developed throughout her high school years.
“I’ve learned to always be true to yourself. Never let what people say about you affect who you are as a person,” Roberts said.
These words ring with the assurance born of experience, determination, and self-awareness. Roberts is aware of the fact that the high school has both enriched as well as challenged her. What she’s experienced has made her the person who will meet the challenges of the future squarely and confidently.
“It’s given me some of my best friends, but it’s also given me the toughest situations in my life and helped me grow as a person,” Roberts said.
As senior year gets underway, Maleah looks forward to spending time with her classmates and friends on the court. She’s most enthusiastic about the events when all the students meet. Simple pleasures of laughter and friendship illustrate why senior year is indelible.
“I’m looking forward to the pep rally to play a game among all the girls and enjoy them,” Roberts said.
Leading her through all of this is an encouraging saying by her pastor that Roberts carries with her everywhere: “True friends stab you in the front and not on the back.” In it, the principle reminds her to remain truthful and associate herself with faithful people. All of the moments, teachings, and experiences go towards the inheritance Roberts wishes to leave behind at her school. Her devotion, spirit, and kindness have been steady companions along the way. Coming up on the final phase of senior year, as well as the celebrations surrounding it, Roberts faces the future with hope and an upbeat heart.
