Jacob Paulsen

I believe others see me as someone who cares deeply for what they believe in. I express myself in strong and healthy ways when it comes to ideas that I feel strongly about. I often try my best to check up on people and make their day better because I understand that it brings me joy when someone does the same for me. When faced with adversity I put together a plan of action in order to face the situation with the best possible attitude.

Over the last four years I have given my energy to the school in ways such as leading students in the student section at various sporting events, helping younger athletes learn the game of tennis and being willing to help my peers with any difficulties they have with class work. My senior year has blessed me with the opportunity of leading the student section at football and basketball games. I am incredibly honored to lead a great body of students with enormous pride for Piper High School. It brings me genuine happiness that I have the ability to cheer on my classmates as they compete in what they love to do. Just last year I started playing tennis and within the span of a year I have helped mentor younger athletes as they take steps in bettering themselves while playing the great sport. With a number of new players joining the team this year there has been steady room for improvement in many aspects within the game. I have learned that it is incredibly valuable to give back to the game that you love which is why I find it very amazing that I can give back to the game as I'm playing. I've experienced many instances when students in the same classroom as me have asked me questions for help on classwork and while I may not know exactly how to help them, I give my best effort to assist with their needs. People have been there for me when it comes to receiving help with schoolwork which is why I believe it is important to be there for others when they need help.

I've been given the gift by God of using my communication skills and generating those skills into a good work ethic. I have been brought up learning that work ethic can take you to new points in life. I am still learning the importance of discipline as I grow as a young man, navigating the ropes of this world. For example, I work for myself as I run a very successful lawn and landscape business in the Kansas City area. This has taught me lessons like time management, determination and having a strong motivation for what you strive to accomplish.

I have shown leadership in many ways through Piper High School. Leading the student section and acting as a senior member of Pep Club outlined my leadership at Piper High School. I strongly believe my leadership has encouraged others and made our school a better place. Throughout my senior year many people have told me that they appreciate what I do for our athletes when it comes to creating a positive environment to cheer them on. It is evident that many students have taken after myself when it comes to school spirit and being proud to be a Piper Pirate. As a senior member of the first year of Pep Club at Piper, I have helped generate bright ideas which bring spirit and togetherness to our school. I embody what it means to be a Piper Pirate in a multitude of ways.