Memories & Moments

Memories & Moments

Newcastle High School Senior: Bryanna Nickel, Valedictorian

1. As you think about your high school years, what is a favorite memory? “I can’t choose one moment from my high school years, but a few of my favorite memories include: cheering at district basketball games, exploring a library at 11pm while competing in State Debate in Austin, every single moment spent backstage (and onstage!) of One Act Play performances, playing laser tag in Fort Worth the night before Regional Academics, playing Juliet in GRT’s “Romeo and Juliet”, choreographing dances for Mini Cheer Camp, lengthy in-depth conversations about absolute silliness with my teachers, singing at the top of my lungs on school road trips, directing a fundraiser show, and so, so much more!”

2. What are three of your most valued accomplishments, besides being at the top of your class? “My first most valued accomplishment would be becoming student council president. Through this organization at my high school, I have been able to mentor younger students, raise money for people in need, and bring positivity to the campus! My second favorite accomplishment is definitely being able to direct a fundraiser show for my school’s OAP company. I was able to grow as a leader, introduce students to a new passion, and raise money for something I care about: a triple threat! My third most valued accomplishment is becoming an All-American cheerleader and FCA All-star cheerleader. My cheer accomplishments are highly valued to me because it represents how my passion to bring school spirit and enthusiasm to others turned into success!”

3. What activities did you enjoy? “The activities I enjoyed the most included One Act Play, cheerleading, speech events, literally any time spent at Graham Regional Theatre, student council, and so. much. more. “

4. What were your leadership roles? “My leadership roles included being student council president (12), class president (9-11), a director for two fundraiser plays (11-12), FFA treasurer (10), and a varsity cheerleader (9-12)! I am so grateful for all of the leadership opportunities Newcastle School has brought me. “

5. What is the secret to your success? And what is success to you? a) “My secret to success is to invest in people that celebrate me, rather than just tolerate me. From my 10 years of growing up in Young County, I have found that I am more passionate, determined, and successful in places where I am constantly encouraged and pushed to do better. This has been key for all of my success! b) Success, to me, are the positive, long-lasting differences one makes for oneself and others. “

6. What can you say to other students about how you have dealt with adversity? “Dear other students dealing with adversity, there will always be someone trying to make you trip and fall. Learn to fly. Filter out hate through what you know is true (for me, that filter is the truth God lays out for us in the Bible). Embrace who you are, follow what is right, never, ever waste energy on trying to be ‘cool’, and people will learn to respect you. “

7. What are your plans after high school? “My plans after high school include attending Oklahoma State University to major in Communication Studies. After earning my BA, I want to attend law school and become a medical malpractice attorney! I would also like to become a judge eventually in the future...”

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? “I for sure see myself working as a medical malpractice attorney in 10 years. I’ll probably be married and rocking a white suburban by then, but I also see myself still being involved in a community theatre and leading worship at a local church.”

9. If you could re-live one high school moment, what would it be? “If I could re-live one high school moment, it would definitely be attending Falls Creek Camp the summer before my junior year. I grew with God and learned so much about Him during that week! I made new friends and was able to lead worship music for my cabin! I remember constantly feeling His presence throughout that week while having an adventure of a lifetime, and I would love to go back to that moment!”

10. What would people be surprised to know about you? “Due to my high levels of enthusiasm, unashamed way of being silly in public, and love for meeting new people, many are surprised to find out that I am an introvert at heart! Although I am very passionate about making new friends and talking a LOT, I recharge with down-time.”

11. How do you wish to be remembered by your school?

“I would first like to be remembered by my love for Jesus and His light shining through me. Secondly, I would like to be remembered as the girl who never stopped at status-quo, but instead was never satisfied until she achieved greatness in every important aspect of her life. “

12. Senior quote? “My senior quote is: “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” by Walt Disney”

13. Favorite song? “I have many favorite songs, but one of them is “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles”

14. Favorite movie? “My favorite movie is Pride and Prejudice (2005). Team Mr. Darcy!”

15. Favorite book? “Other than the Bible, my favorite book would also have to be Pride and Prejudice”