It was July 5th, 2007, when Ava Salem was born in Flint Michigan. Ava lives with her younger brother and mom, and has been attending Kearsley Community Schools for all 13 years of her education thus far. Though still young, the impact they’ve had on the community and those around them is incredible.
If there’s one thing you notice about Ava, it’s that they’re always in motion. Whether creating a poster, brainstorming a new project for our senior class, or simply checking in on a friend, Ava’s drive is admirable—and their focus, unwavering.
When entering high school Ava made it their mission to grow out of their shell and make a name for themself. “In middle school I wasn’t really well known, and I didn’t really do much. So throughout high school I’ve gotten super involved. I’ve grown closer to peers and staff, I got a job, I’ve kept myself busy.”
Keeping themself busy may very well be an understatement when considering the many extracurricular activities that they’re a part of. Ava is currently a part of seven clubs or organizations here at KHS, and has joined Detroit Area Youth Uniting Michigan outside of school. From being Student Council Vice President to NHS Historian or even the Senior Class Secretary, Ava is known throughout the school as a natural leader. When asked about their favorite extracurricular Ava had this to say, “Out of all I’m part of this year I have to say theater, since I’ve met so many people and have formed countless great friendships through this club. It’s helped me grow as a person and become more involved in the school. Being a part of theater has helped me come out of my bubble and grow into a larger personality.” Ava is definitely a talented actor, and is looking forward to acting as the evil stepmother this April in KHS drama’s production of Cinderella.
While this workload through extracurriculars would be enough to exhaust many others, Ava doesn’t stop there. Ava is the epitome of balance between creativity and academics, being immensely talented in both areas. In addition to theater they’re very passionate about writing, baking, and art. When they do have free time they’re typically working hard to improve these skills. “I used to write everyday but don’t really have the time now. I still try to write at least once a week by journaling or writing stories.”
Ava’s mind is truly extraordinary. They’re a student who loves to come to school and learn new things, always chasing the joy of finally understanding a new concept. Ava has always been a quick learner, picking up on difficult concepts often without the need of studying. This is helped by the fact that they’re never shy about asking questions or gaining clarification from their teachers or peers.
This love and devotion to their education is sure to carry over to college. Since math and science have always been some of their favorite subjects, Ava plans to study biochemistry once out of high school. Their immediate plan is to attend Oakland University to begin their studies while still being part of art programs and other fun extracurriculars. “I’m excited to meet more people who are interested in the field I want to go into!”
While their university plans are in place, Ava isn’t immune to the senior year anxiety as graduation approaches. Becoming more involved in the school means that they’ve invested themself more in our community and have only grown more fond of Kearsley. Ava shared how they’ll miss the people here the most since they’ve gotten close to many staff members and underclassmen that they’ll now have to leave behind in June. “I’m really nervous. I love all of my friends and I’m used to being able to see those I’m close to every day. I’m worried that all of my friends are going to be so busy after high school and it’ll be hard to stay in touch.”
The bonds that Ava has formed through attending Kearsley are extremely important to them. While they’re nervous, it’s clear to others that they’ll excel at Oakland and the friendships they’ve formed throughout high school won’t be so easily forgotten. Ava has always been a dedicated friend who’s caring and simply fun to be around. Their commitment to those they’re close to is evident. “I hope that my friends know that even though I mess around and can be mean to them sometimes, that I love and care for them. I’m always here to help if they need anything. I just hope that they see me as a respectable person.”
Ava is truly a remarkably talented and multifaceted individual. Their ability to fully commit themself to their many academic, extracurricular, and social responsibilities is impressive and speaks to their character. Driven, talented, fun, and kind, anyone would be lucky to have Ava Salem in their life. There’s no doubt that Ava will only continue to achieve great things as they say goodbye to Kearsley High School.
