Leah Wertz

Age: 18, Senior at Leesburg High School

After graduating high school, I plan on attending either the University of Central Florida or Florida State University and majoring in secondary education. I want to become a high school math teacher or event manager.

One of my favorite hobbies is art. I specialize in 3D ceramics and particularly enjoy making teapots. In my spare time, I teach art to children at the Warren W. Willis United Methodist Camp in Fruitland Park. I show them the work of famous artists such as Michelangelo and have them complete various hands-on projects.

I was one of 500 female students throughout Florida who was selected to attend the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program in Tallahassee. Each student had to create a bill. The bill I created stated the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) should be administered in Spanish for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students.

I credit my success to my parents. My parents have never put any pressure on me to succeed and have always taught me that I can handle anything. Both of my parents work very hard, and I admire that about them. I certainly inherited their work ethic. I am also fortunate because I have been blessed with many talented teachers who have inspired me to learn.

My favorite book is The Great Gatsby. I have read it six times. The book is set in one of my favorite eras, and it is so classically written and eloquent. The characters also have a lot of depth.

I want people to know my generation cares a lot more than you think. We care about our academics, our future, and other people. Everyone I know at my school wants to succeed in life and make good choices. It is not fair to judge an entire generation based on what you see or hear in the news.

People think today’s youth wants everything  free of charge and expects handouts. That is not true.  Hard work is the only way to achieve goals and dreams.

In my free time, I enjoy going to Starbucks with friends or hanging out with my boyfriend, who currently attends the University of Florida.

VITAL STATS

 

Straight to the point: Leah maintains an impressive 4.4 grade-point average.

 

Carrying a load: Leah is currently taking the following Advanced Placement (AP) classes: 3D art, literature, government, economics, and statistics.

 

At your service: Leah will spend a week in Tallahassee as an intern for Sen. Alan Hays.