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Jordan Young (Monroe High)

What is your favorite subject in school and why?

Science is my favorite subject because I enjoy hands-on activities, like doing labs. I also like learning how science can improve people's health and make a positive impact.

What's the coolest thing you've ever done in a school project or lesson?

Last year during robotics, we created a war bot. I remember getting to test it in the hallway, which was pretty cool because I had never made a robot before. I really enjoy hands-on projects, and that was an awesome experience for us.

One thing I learned about robotics is that it takes a lot of hand-eye coordination and patience. Even the smallest mistake can mess everything up, so paying attention to details is crucial. You’re not going to get it right on the first try—you have to keep adjusting and trying again.

We faced a lot of challenges with the robot. It took us three or four days to build, and even then, it wasn’t fully finished. But it was such a relief just to be able to play with it afterward. In the end, our hard work paid off because we won one of the battles and even had the fastest robot. After all the struggles, it felt great to see our efforts rewarded.

If you could learn any skill instantly, what would it be?

If I could learn any skill instantly, it would be the ability to think outside the box. I believe that many people have a fixed mindset, but those who can think creatively and see things from different angles are often the ones who advance the most. If I could gain that skill instantly, I would be able to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and come up with more innovative solutions.

Would you rather be able to talk to animals or be able to speak and understand any language in the world?

I believe understanding different languages is important because the world has become so much more diverse. Traveling is one of my biggest goals, and knowing other languages would help me communicate with locals wherever I go. It would make traveling much easier and more enjoyable. 

If I could travel anywhere, I’d choose Dubai. I’ve always wanted to visit, and I’ve heard it’s beautiful

What's something you're really passionate about outside of school?

Outside of school, I’m really passionate about spending time with my little siblings. Whenever I’m home, I make it a priority to play and interact with them, especially since I’m often away for sports. I have three younger siblings, and although I’m the second oldest, I still enjoy quality time with my older sibling when we’re both around. Family time is important to me, and I know my siblings love having their big brother around.

What three words best describe you?

  • Intelligent
  • Leader
  • Confident

What is your happiest school memory?

My happiest school memory was from either sixth or seventh grade during career day. I didn’t know my dad was coming because he had told me he couldn’t make it. But then, to my surprise, he showed up. Everyone thought his career was really cool, and it was the first time I truly understood what he did in the military. He’s in the National Guard, and although I don’t know his exact rank, I know he’s highly respected since everyone goes to him.

That day, I learned how challenging his job is and the sacrifices it takes to serve the country—missing important family moments and enduring hard times. It was exciting to see him there and share with my friends, like, "This is my father and what he does." That made me really proud.

If you could pick any three people to hang out with for a day, who would it be and why?

If I could pick any three people to hang out with for a day, I would choose LeBron James, because he's my favorite athlete of all time. I would also choose my grandfathers, even though they passed away before I was born, because I never got the chance to meet them. With LeBron, I would definitely talk about sports, but with my grandfathers, I would want to know about their upbringing and how things were for males like them. I’d seek their advice on life, hoping to gain some wisdom from the older generation.