NANKIN — Mariah White had an active high school career, all of which she feels has helped prepare her for the future.
Throughout high school, the recent Mapleton graduate was involved in Spanish Club, band, choir, National Honor Society, Academic Challenge, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Student Council. She served as an officer in the band, where she was a percussionist, and was the Secretary for Student Council.
“I’ve adopted children essentially in every one of these programs,” White said. “When someone comes to you for advice and takes it, and it works out, then they tell others about it.
“It gives me confidence to be able to help people out.”
All of these opportunities have helped White grow more confident as a leader while giving her a glimpse into potential career paths and nurturing her passion for volunteerism.
White joined Student Council to help out with the blood drive, plan dances, and take a more active role in school.
Being involved with the National Honor Society opened her eyes to all of the ways you can volunteer and where needs can be addressed.
She participated in Mapleton Cares Day and regularly volunteers at Brethren Care Village’s Game Nights. She also student volunteers for Brethren Care Game Nights, staying for about an hour before dinner to play Scrabble, Euchre, and other games with residents.
“They seem grateful to have younger company,” White said. “They are a very lively bunch!”
She was also a part of the Mountie Mentoring program. Four days a week for several hours a day, she spent time with kindergarteners, helping them learn to read.
The experience has given White insight into what it will take for her to become a teacher herself, which she plans to do upon graduating from The Ohio State University. She wants to teach secondary education, specifically history and Spanish, which are her favorite subjects in school.
Family has played a role in influencing White’s high school interests and future career plans. She was inspired by her aunt to join the National Honor Society. Several family members went to school to become teachers.
“I’ve wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember,” she said.
“Mariah is a bright student who is very inquisitive and curious about learning,” said Kerry Reisinger, who teaches English 10 and Speech at Mapleton while advising NHS and the yearbook.
“She learns to know and understand things, not just get a good grade. She is very outgoing and willing to participate in class and extracurriculars. She also has a servant’s heart and is always ready and willing to lend a hand.”
White arrived to Mapleton from a previous class of eight people, so while the Mounties have a close-knit community, it was still an adjustment for her.
She’s excited to take the leap to Ohio State, but it will be another big step to an even larger community. She’s ready to take on the challenge.
Read more about the talented students at Mapleton Local Schools in this evolving series.
