Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
A: I am most proud of how I’ve challenged myself academically, without being afraid to try new things. I’ve often taken classes that I knew would be difficult and tried activities out of my comfort zone.
Q: What were your most rewarding school or community activities?
A: I’ve been very involved in environmental initiatives, including volunteering with kids at the local environmental center, leading a school environmental club, and serving as a PA Young Ambassador.
Q: What is something you do to relax?
A: I have many hobbies that are creative outlets, like drawing, singing, writing poetry and short stories, and cooking and baking. I also like to read, go outside and watch TV with my family.
Q: Plans after high school graduation?
A: Princeton University and major in geosciences or environmental studies, while also pursuing creative writing.
Q: Who do you most admire and why?
A: I admire my parents a lot. My mom is always so patient even when dealing with eight kids, some of them very young still, and my dad is very kind and smart. My mom is always there for me and is very supportive.
Q: What advice do you have for younger students?
A: My advice for younger students is to pursue all of your interests and passions, and don’t neglect parts of yourself just because you are so focused on one path.
A little about Grace Beckish
Hometown: Madison Twp.
Parents: Shannon and Michael Beckish
Some of her honors: Semifinalist, National Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation; National Honor Society; multiple distinctions in chorus and in the Model United Nations; National Award of Merit for High School Literature.
Some of her activities: Environmental club, Model United Nations, Mathletes, Scholastic Scrimmage Team, chorus, concert band, marching band, jazz band, Governor’s School for Global Studies and International Relations, astronomy research.
What her nominator said: “She is the epitome of a well-rounded student, and is viewed as a leader and role model by students, faculty, and administration for everything she does inside and outside of the classroom.”
Grace Beckish (Grace Beckish)