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Blue Springs, MO —
Academic All-Stars: J.J. Waddell
SCHOOL: Blue Springs South High School
HONORS: Top 1 percent; named to the Principal’s Honor Roll throughout high school; AP Scholar; received a letter in the STRETCH program and varsity basketball; 2011 graduating class grand marshal; member of National Society of High School Scholars.
ACTIVITIES: Member of basketball team; president and co-founder of Carnivore Club; member of AP Physics Club, Ultimate Frisbee Club Family Career and Community Leaders of America Club and FCA; volunteer at basketball clinics and training days for children; tutor for mathematics and science.
What advice do you have for next year’s freshmen?
My best advice to the incoming freshmen would be two things – get involved in the school’s clubs and communities and challenge yourself with your coursework. I personally was infatuated with the diversity of Blue Springs South’s activities and clubs offered, there truly is a club to fit everyone, and if there isn’t one for you, the administration is so helpful in facilitating the creation of your own club.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
It is difficult to choose a favorite teacher because all of the teachers I have hold a special place in my heart. If I had to choose one I would say Mr. Dorsch. He has been truly devoted and focuses on us, the students and their success in his class. This is his first year at South, yet he chose to teach one of the toughest classes, AP physics. From his early morning study sessions to his lunch time teachings, he has directly influenced my life both in and out of the classroom. Not only has he taught me about physics, but he has given trusted advice and helpful insight throughout my college decision process. Mr. Dorsch makes something as grueling as AP physics fun.
When you were not in school or studying, what did you enjoy doing?
I have always had an extreme love of basketball, so when I have the time I spend hours in the gym playing the game I love so dearly. When I am not playing basketball, I like to hang out with my friends. We are all huge movie buffs so that is a typical hangout, but we do various other things as well.
What college do you plan to attend and why?
I plan to attend the six-year BA/MD University of Missouri-Kansas City program because this program has high academic prestige and allows me to achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor with two extra years to spare. This was a very tough choice for me because I was also presented with multiple NAIA and NCAA Division III school’s offers to play basketball. I chose UMKC because it is the best choice for me, and one I’m very excited about.
What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I see myself with a prosperous job as an orthopedic surgeon somewhere in the Midwest, helping hundreds of people every day and truly making a difference in the world, one patient at a time.
Academic All-Stars: J.J. Waddell
SCHOOL: Blue Springs South High School
HONORS: Top 1 percent; named to the Principal’s Honor Roll throughout high school; AP Scholar; received a letter in the STRETCH program and varsity basketball; 2011 graduating class grand marshal; member of National Society of High School Scholars.
ACTIVITIES: Member of basketball team; president and co-founder of Carnivore Club; member of AP Physics Club, Ultimate Frisbee Club Family Career and Community Leaders of America Club and FCA; volunteer at basketball clinics and training days for children; tutor for mathematics and science.
What advice do you have for next year’s freshmen?
My best advice to the incoming freshmen would be two things – get involved in the school’s clubs and communities and challenge yourself with your coursework. I personally was infatuated with the diversity of Blue Springs South’s activities and clubs offered, there truly is a club to fit everyone, and if there isn’t one for you, the administration is so helpful in facilitating the creation of your own club.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
It is difficult to choose a favorite teacher because all of the teachers I have hold a special place in my heart. If I had to choose one I would say Mr. Dorsch. He has been truly devoted and focuses on us, the students and their success in his class. This is his first year at South, yet he chose to teach one of the toughest classes, AP physics. From his early morning study sessions to his lunch time teachings, he has directly influenced my life both in and out of the classroom. Not only has he taught me about physics, but he has given trusted advice and helpful insight throughout my college decision process. Mr. Dorsch makes something as grueling as AP physics fun.
When you were not in school or studying, what did you enjoy doing?
I have always had an extreme love of basketball, so when I have the time I spend hours in the gym playing the game I love so dearly. When I am not playing basketball, I like to hang out with my friends. We are all huge movie buffs so that is a typical hangout, but we do various other things as well.
What college do you plan to attend and why?
I plan to attend the six-year BA/MD University of Missouri-Kansas City program because this program has high academic prestige and allows me to achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor with two extra years to spare. This was a very tough choice for me because I was also presented with multiple NAIA and NCAA Division III school’s offers to play basketball. I chose UMKC because it is the best choice for me, and one I’m very excited about.
What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I see myself with a prosperous job as an orthopedic surgeon somewhere in the Midwest, helping hundreds of people every day and truly making a difference in the world, one patient at a time.
