Being a Lancer means being a leader

During the 2015-16 school year, I have had the pleasure of highlighting the people, programs, academic initiatives and more representing Lake Park High School in Roselle.

I share a snapshot of our school community and our commitment to providing the best learning environment for teaching and learning.

This month, I have the privilege of introducing you to one of our very own students. Sophomore Brianna McAloon of Bloomingdale will share in her own words how her decisions and involvement are shaping her future.

With a challenging schedule including Advanced Placement and honors classes, as well as being co-captain of varsity soccer and an officer on student council, Bri has distinguished herself as a leader among her classmates. As guest columnist, she provides a small glimpse into her Lancer experience.

Brianna McAloon

If I could offer advice to any student it would be to get involved in school. Student involvement shapes youth into the leaders of tomorrow. Lake Park High School encourages involvement in 27 different sports, more than 40 clubs and activities, and countless AP, honors and elective classes.

Last year as a freshman, I began high school attempting to involve myself as much as possible. I took on the most rigorous academic schedule, headed several extracurricular activities and participated in competitive sports. I earned awards for my participation in activities and athletics, as well as receiving highest honors.

The administration and faculty at Lake Park appreciate students' efforts and provide a supportive environment that drives me to give my best efforts. My hard work paid off. My efforts had begun to get recognized early into my first year.

Lake Park offered me the opportunity to be a part of a DuPage Valley Conference Leadership Exchange, representing Lake Park at leadership conferences with other high schools. Also, I obtained a Rotary Youth Leadership Award to attend a student leadership program created by Rotary Clubs.

The program increased my leadership capabilities and established connections with other leaders outside my community, making lifelong friends. I was nominated to partake in Lancer Lead, a program devoted to provide a platform for students and administration to communicate. This two-way communication brings improvements that benefit Lake Park.

Now as a sophomore, I continue to achieve and grow during my high school career. Every day I come to school motivated to build my future. High school presents the opportunities to create a foundation, build your future and succeed. As young adults, students need to seize opportunities to excel.

My leadership experiences at Lake Park have shown me the prospect of the future. I have connected with other students in and out of school and acquired perspective of what I want for my life. For that I am beyond grateful.

Personally, I know Lake Park has changed my life. In two short years I have grown more into the person I want to be. Next year I will be a junior and plan to continue immersing myself into the school community. To me, being a Lancer is to be a part of a family, and it will be an honor to one day be called a "Lancer for Life."

• Lynne Panega is superintendent of Lake Park High School District 108. Her column runs monthly in Neighbor during the school year.