Hometowns Program Student Spotlights
The journey doesn’t end when the Supreme Court and My Hometowns program does! Our students go on to achieve incredible things in high school, college, and beyond. Whether they’re excelling in academics, leading community projects, or exploring new opportunities, we love keeping up with their successes. Check out what our recent alumni have been up to and how they’re continuing to make an impact!
Kathryn M., Chattanooga ‘24
I received my civics seal diploma!!! My project for this diploma involved me talking about the hometowns camp!! I have also had a successful dance season so far as we had two first place finishes last week! I got into Georgia Southern University and just applied to their honors college! Just waiting to hear back from UGA before I make my decision about school!
Renee S., St. Louis ‘23
I have joined Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity, and Phi Sigma Sigma at Loyola University Chicago. I am studying Political science and global studies. In my free time I volunteer in the Chicago area and explore new places. I have loved being in a new city and making new friends. This summer I will be going to Ireland as a part of my schools study abroad program.
Leah F., Chattanooga ‘24
After my unforgettable two weeks with SCMH, I dove further into my education and started at Middle College through Walter State Community College! It’s like starting my freshman year of college, when in real time I’m starting my junior year of high school. I will be receiving my associates degree and high school diploma in the same graduation! Through Middle College, I got 5 years of the HOPE scholarship. 2 years towards my associates and then can use three years of scholarship towards undergrad or grad school!! Blessed and highly favored I am! I am so thankful for the two weeks I spent learning with SCMH. When my friends Johnny, Mckinna, and I were featured in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, I had several people reach out asking my story and my thoughts about the US v Shipp case! It changed my life, and is still changing it to this day!
Cian O., St. Louis ‘23 and Hometowns Intern ‘24
I recently enrolled in Johns Hopkins to study public health in the Class of 2029! As of the moment, I am looking for a roommate and waiting on more information from JHU, but I am hoping to add a double major in economics or public policy.
Tanishika S., Indianapolis ‘24
I have recently been participating in the county mock trial competitions, which are still ongoing and will conclude next week. Our team has been diligently preparing, gaining a deeper understanding of courtroom procedures and legal strategies. With the regional competition approaching this Saturday, we are in the stage of preparation, refining our arguments and practicing our roles to ensure we perform at our best.
Shederick W., Indianapolis ‘24
It has been an amazing senior year with tremendous growth and new experiences. I have been accepted into several colleges and am considering my top options, which include Indiana University, Purdue University, and Ohio State University. Outside the classroom, I’ve also held leadership roles, including as President of the National Honors Society, where I assisted in planning community service events, led club meetings, and helped other students. I’m also competing in a public speaking competition through SkillsUSA. Outside of school, I’m earning work experience through a Social Marketing Internship at Tallo. I have been job shadowing, assisting with content creation, conducting market research, and contributing to business strategy.
Cordelia E., St. Louis ‘23
I survived my first semester at WashU! It has been truly incredible here, and I have learned so much while having so much fun. I also finally got a hip replacement in December!!!
Mackenzie G., Chattanooga ‘24
Back in October, I participated in a podcast aimed at spreading awareness of the Ed Johnson case, which was a focus of the Hometowns program. I discussed the historical facts of the case and its impact on her view of the United States government. In the near future, I will be writing an opinion piece on politically driven polarization of the church for The Chattanooga Times. Beyond my historical and political interests, I have been involved in multiple theater productions, won an all-grade-levels musical chairs competition, got my senior photos done, and am exploring mission opportunities for after graduation!
Annisa T., Indianapolis ‘24
On Saturday, February 15, the Indianapolis/Evansville regional competition for Mock Trial took place downtown in the Community Justice Center. I competed as a part of the junior team for Heritage Christian School. My team, Peas in a Podcast, went on to qualify for competition at state level! I am highly anticipating the chance for her team to present their case again on March 8th.
McKinna W., Chattanooga ‘24
My volleyball team made it to the Elite 8 for state. Mock Trial has started and my team and I are so excited for the competition.
Soren O., Indianapolis ‘24
I was accepted to Rotary’s youth international exchange program, and will be going to Germany all of my junior year. I also have become a captain of the debate team at my school.
Maksim K., Indianapolis ‘24
All 5s on AP tests so far!
Gracie H., Chattanooga ‘24
I placed fourth in the LegalEagle Bi-Annual Judicial Case Bee. (Top 5 out of 250 participants in the nation). I was announced Valedictorian of my graduating class and I have been accepted to Sewanee, UTK, and UVM for environmental studies.
Emma B., St. Louis ‘23
College has been an amazing experience so far. I am super excited to have found an internship in Cincinnati during this semester and one over the summer in Saint Louis, both with immigration firms.
Eli C., Chattanooga ‘24
I am currently competing in my second Mock Trial. I received Straight A’s for the first semester and wrote a poetry book called the Language of Nature.
Lola L., Chattanooga ‘24
Right now I’m preparing for the mock trial competition this Wednesday as a part of the GPS A-Team. It’s a lot of work, and I am quite stressed, but since I plan on retiring from it after this year, I hope to give it one last good run.