#11 Madelyn Kates
Texas A&M University
Business/Accounting
What high school activity, class, or teacher most impacted who you are today?
Playing multiple sports all throughout high school has made me who I am today. Being able to play sports has taught me how to work well with a team, put good effort into everything I do, and be a good role model to others through leadership. Playing sports has taught me so much, not just for the present but for my dreams in the future.
What is your most cherished memory in high school?
My most cherished memory in high school were all of the pep rallies! At my old school our pep rallies were not very fun and exciting. When I moved here this year, I felt the school spirit throughout the entire school and it truly showed through the lively, out of this world pep rallies!
Share a time when you overcame a challenge and the lessons learned from it.
I lived in a small town called La Grange for pretty much my entire life until this year. When I got the news we were moving, I was at first hesitant because I would have to leave the only home I ever knew and the best friends that I had. However, I was ready to come to a school called Wylie High School. Whenever I got here, I instantly felt welcomed and made many friends. Overcoming the adversity of moving was a tough journey, but in the end moving to Wylie High was such an amazing blessing.
What advice would you give to under classmen about making the most out of their high school experience?
I would tell them not to miss out on anything. Go to every function and just enjoy the time they have in high school as much as they can. High school really does fly by so make the most out of the time you have.
Who or what gives you inspiration?
My dad gives me inspiration! Being able to grow up a coach’s daughter has been such a blessing for me. Watching my dad make such a difference in so many young men’s lives has been so inspirational to me, and it makes me want to make a difference too. The impact he makes on so many people not just on the field but off the field has helped so many young men grow into who they are today. Seeing his impact has inspired me to help as many people as I can in the future and make a difference just like he does.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of being a good role model for my siblings and younger cousins. I am the oldest of three siblings and the oldest of nine cousins. My family is super close, and they all look up to me as a leader and role model. Being able to show them what it means to be a good person, act right, and watch them grow into amazing young men and women is the accomplishment that I am most proud of.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
One thing that most people don’t know about me is that I am actually a very good singer. As a kid I competed in a ton of talent shows and won the majority of them. I still love to sing but it usually doesn’t go anywhere except my shower and car.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you reach this achievement?
I would like to thank my parents and also my entire family for supporting me in everything that I put my mind to. Having that support has really pushed me to set big goals for myself and it lets me know that I will achieve them.