#15 Selah Appuglies
Hardin-Simmons University
Strategic Communications
What high school activity, class, or teacher most impacted who you are today?
The school activity that had the most profound impact on me was PALs. PALs provided me with a community of precious, caring people from all different social groups. It also grew my ability to counsel and connect with people, as well as look up and notice the people around me and what they might be going through. I loved spending time with my little pals and learned so much!
What is your most cherished memory in high school?
I do not think I can pinpoint one specific memory, but the most cherished moments that I look back on are the simple moments of connection. When we played a game in class or just talked and I got to forget about school and connect with the students around me.
Share a time when you overcame a challenge and the lessons learned from it.
I moved to Wylie freshman year after moving several other times before. Wylie was by far the largest school I had attended and I was absolutely terrified. In fact, I spent most of freshman year shy and afraid of what people might think of me. As I went through the next years of high school, I slowly grew in confidence and began to reach out to people around me more. Now, as a Senior, I still have to remind myself not to worry what others may think, but I have grown much more confident in who I am and getting involved. Even so, I missed out on many opportunities because of fear and I regret it. I hope to carry this lesson with me to college and be true to myself and take advantage of opportunities without fear.
What advice would you give to under classmen about making the most out of their high school experience?
My best advice would be to stop caring what other people think of you. If you want to do something, go for it and don’t let fear hold you back. Get involved and make memories.
Who or what gives you inspiration?
My family and specifically my parents give me inspiration. They have worked so hard to bring me to the place I am today, and I look up to them in every regard. They are some of the wisest, kindest, and best people I know. My relationship with God also inspires me to do my best in everything that I do in order to honor Him.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of my nomination and acceptance into PALs. I love being a part of the program and am so proud to be considered a leader and role model for younger students, as well as my peers. It is a huge honor to be given the opportunity to speak into children’s lives and spend time with some of the best students in the school.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Most people do not know that I was homeschooled for most of my primary education. I attended public kindergarten, 5th grade, and 8th grade, but for the rest of my education, I was homeschooled. I learned from different curriculums and was part of several different co-ops that taught logic, Latin, public speaking and other math and science facts mostly in the form of memorization.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you reach this achievement?
I would like to thank my parents because if it wasn’t for their influence and support there is no way I would have been able to achieve this honor. I would also like to thank God for blessing me with a supportive family and the opportunity to go to school and learn.