Mikaila Matheson

Parents name: Barb Matheson

Cumulative GPA & Class Rank: 4.0, 1st

Activities: NHS, marching band (section leader), pep band, jazz band, concert band (Iowa All State, Southeast Iowa Honor Band, Coe College Honor Band, Iowa State University Honor Band, University of Iowa Honor Band), speech (Group All State), and drama.

Other clubs outside of school: Studio dance

Future plans: I am admitted into the University of Iowa as an open major because I really do like a mix of everything. I see myself in a career that involves a variety of different components. I’d really love to help others with my future career. Music is a huge part of my life, so I decided to audition for the School of Music. I have been accepted, but I have yet to determine in what capacity I’d like to pursue flute performance. I additionally plan on auditioning for the Hawkeye Marching Band.

How will your high school experiences help in coming years? High school has thrown a plethora of activities my way. With a hectic schedule all throughout, I’ve learned to hone my time management skills. I think this will be a very valuable skill to have for college.

Fondest memory of high school: All of my best memories stem from band; joining band was the best decision that I made in high school. My memories range from marching band competitions to simply sitting in the parking lot after a concert talking about nonsense. I have made true friends, who have in turn created many amazing memories.

Which teachers have had the biggest impact on you and why? Steven “Captain” Caulk, Don Hughes, and Jim Peterson have been my favorite teachers throughout my high school career. Captain was my history teacher for two years. He’s famous for making learning fun with a variety of different review games while also teaching in a very engaging way. Although his classes are known for being difficult, I actually appreciate the difficulty level because it’s geared towards preparing students for later on in life.

Mr. Hughes has been my band director for all four years in high school plus the year that he taught me in fifth grade. Music is a significant part of my life and without the guidance and pushing of Mr. Hughes, I wouldn’t be where I am now. He has provided me with knowledge and skills that will continue to be utilized on my path in pursuing music in college.

Mr. Peterson has taught me math for three years. He’s such a genuine person who honestly loves his job. He really cares about each and every one of his students and never fails to help when needed. He’s a very intelligent individual who uses his talent to teach math in a clear and enjoyable manner.

Who is your role model and how did they influence you? My role model is undoubtedly my mother. She’s a single parent who has had to take on the role of two. She’s been my number one supporter my whole life while also providing guidance along the way. I really appreciate my mother and everything she's done and sacrificed for me. I 100% wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for her. I strive to be a strong and caring mother like she is.

What’s special about your high school? Our school is flexible when it comes to students’ schedules. Students are allowed to shape their schedules to where it fits them best. Such examples include Kirkwood classes, online courses, and a wide spread of electives. This permits each unique student to gain the most from their educational high school experience.

If you go back to when you were a freshman, what advice would you give yourself? There are many things that I would do differently if I were to go back. For one, I’d say to not be afraid to get involved in activities; you’re only in high school once in your life. That’s one of my major regrets. In high school, it’s a given that you’ll be faced with unideal situations. Know that it is important to not dwell on certain predicaments. It’s hard to put into practice, but it’s vital to note that time will pass and you’ll come out stronger than before. High school is such a tiny part of your life. Those four measly years pale in comparison to the life you have yet to live.