Stacey Hagenson has been chosen as this week's Senior Spotlight Student. She is involved in numerous activities on and off campus.
One of her main focuses is track. “Running is simply my way of having a sense of accomplishment within me, dealing with daily teenage stress, getting alone time, and making lifetime friends across the world!”
Her interest in running really started in her 5th grade P.E. class. She ran to get away from problems and people at school. Even though this interest in running developed from a low point it seems now she is running toward bigger and better things rather than running away. Now she thoroughly enjoys running for the fun of it. It has a real motivational effect on her life. She will sign with Delta State University February 3, 2010 to run cross-country. She also was involved in swimming and basketball at Purvis High School.
Stacey has been involved in many church mission groups. The most memorable mission for her was visiting Ecuador the last weekend in July. She admits that experience is one she will never forget. The seriousness of the situation there didn’t really sink in until they visited the mentally challenged children. She met a young girl that cried out in joy when she received her first pair of glasses that her family could not afford. Culture shock hit her when she arrived home at the airport. So much people in the U.S take for granted are so hard to attain in South America. She plans to make another mission trip to Honduras in the summer of 2010.
“If you want a life changing experience, spend a week in another country and live the life of the people. Look into the piercing eyes of kids that have nothing; no family; processions, no home. Hold them and simply smile, you’ll change.”
She is also involved in local missions including playing piano and the First United Methodist Church.
Stacey transferred to Poplarville High School from Purvis High School at the beginning of her junior year, leaving many friends behind. The whole process was a huge change in her life. She moved into her new home and the very next week she started at a new school.
“Balancing my life efficiently come from planning far in advance, using time wisely, and setting priorities.”
She has to juggle school work, extensive extra curricular activities, and a social life. To cut down on burning daylight she runs before she comes to school. By doing this she is able to concentrate on her activities and homework in the afternoons.
To all underclassman she gives this advice. “I advise younger students/athletes to put education first and fill in the gaps with sports and clubs, keep up with your grades, awards, honors, and achievements for filling out scholarships.”
Stacey hopes to pay for most, if not all, of her college by receiving scholarships. Coaches along the way have encouraged her and made an impact on her life. However, she undoubtedly attributes her success in her life to her supportive family.
