Q: So, I hear you’re going to the University of Washington to study medicine. Why do you want to become a doctor?
A: Well, my mom is in the medical field, and she’s told me about it ever since I was little, so that has always kind of motivated me.
And I really want to travel, too. My hope is that, after I get my doctorate, I can go to South America and help people in impoverished countries. That way, I can combine my love for Spanish and my love for medicine as well.
Q: And what kind of doctor do you want to be?
A: A pediatrician, just because I really like kids.
Q: You’re also a co-captain of both the swim and softball teams. What do you think makes you a good leader?
A: I’m really friendly, so I think people feel comfortable seeking advice and coming to me if they are having a bad day.
It’s not that I’m the best person on the team, but I’m good at keeping people’s energy up during games.
Q: Do you think your involvement in sports will help you as a doctor?
A: Definitely. It’s like you’re part of something bigger. You have to do your part on the team, along with your role on the team, and pick up others if they make a mistake. It’s all about keeping everyone together.
Q: Your dad said you do a lot of volunteer work, too. Where?
A: With softball and everything, I get really busy, but I volunteer as much as I can.
I volunteer at the Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett and at elementary schools, like Jackson and Garfield. They do carnivals in fall and spring. It’s really fun.
I also volunteer at the Senior Citizens Dinner — we hold that at our school — and the special needs dance with our Torch Honor Society.
Q: You’re a part of the honor society, too?
A: Yeah, it’s for students who have a 3.5 GPA or higher.
Q: You’ve really got a lot going on. What’s your schedule like?
A: So busy! I have a little bit of free time, but definitely not very much. I’ve learned to manage it, though, and time management, that’s good for college.
Usually, I come to school, go to softball — and sometimes I baby-sit and referee volleyball, too — then I come home and do homework then go to bed.
Q: So, when you’re not at school or playing sports or volunteering or working, what do you like to do?
A: I like to hang out with my friends but, to be totally honest, when I have down time, I usually like to take advantage of that.
Q: What is something you think people should know about you?
A: I just really like helping people, that’s why I want to become a doctor. I like to feel like I’m a part of something bigger.
Ashley Stewart: 425-337-4947; astewart@heraldnet.com.
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