Each month, the principals of Gilroy and Christopher high schools choose a total of four students (two from GHS and two from CHS) to spotlight. GHS senior Samantha Frances Holder, 17, is this week’s Student of the Week.
What inspires you?
My mom is easily the most inspirational person in my life. She is the epitome of class and selflessness. She somehow finds time in her day to be a mother, friend, wife, restaurateur, Parent Club President and about a million other things. Her compassion for all inspires me to be a better person every day.
What is your favorite subject in school, and why?
My favorite subject in school would definitely have to be a two way tie between English and science. I have had the absolute greatest teachers in those subjects throughout my high school career and I simply couldn’t choose between the two.
If you had the power to change one thing in the world, what would it be?
If I had the power to change one thing, I would give more money to fund schools. It doesn’t seem fair that one school should get more than another or that other projects of lesser importance should take money away from the education system.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go?
If I could go anywhere, it would definitely be the moon. It just seems like such a peaceful place and I hear the view from up there is amazing.
Name one big challenge in your life right now:
One of the biggest challenges facing me right now is getting through all my college applications. I accidentally spelled my last name wrong on one of my applications which was a tad awkward, but it’s all fixed now and I’m just focusing on getting the rest of mine turned in problem free.
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what three things could you not live without?
I would simply die of boredom if I didn’t bring something to read, so I’d bring a library if that was an option and if not I would bring the Nook that I just got for Christmas. I’d also need to bring some waffles. Peanut butter and honey waffle sandwiches are my absolute favorite breakfast food and I’m sure that I would last very long without them. I’d also probably bring my cat. I wouldn’t really want to strand anyone else on the island with me, but I feel like Roxy wouldn’t mind much and she’d be excellent company.
What is your dream job?
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At some point in my life, I would love to join the Peace Corps. Definitely not as a full-time job, but it is definitely something that I want to do with my life.
Favorite book:
My favorite book is usually whatever I’m reading at the moment. I’m currently reading “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” which is incredibly interesting. I’m also a diehard “Harry Potter” fan, so I’d have to say that those are my favorite books as well.
Something that makes you smile:
I love Harry’s declaration of love at the end of “When Harry Met Sally.” That always makes me smile.
