MHS student sees future in science
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One of Marshalltown High School junior Aida Almanza's favorite places to be is the chemistry lab.
In the first semester of this school year, she took two major science classes and was given high marks for both.
"My favorite classes this semester were definitely chemistry, anatomy, PLTW (Project Lead the Way) for medical interventions and pre-calculus," Aida said.
With that focus solidly in the scientific arena, she said she looks forward to college.
"I would like to definitely take more science classes because, once I graduate high school, I am planning on attending the University of Iowa and then getting a major in chemistry and a minor in biology," Aida said.
After that, she said she wants to go to medical school and become a surgeon.
Her passion for learning has not been missed by instructors.
"I kind of start my day with her in anatomy and end my day with her in chemistry," said MHS science teacher Mike Loupee. "She's an outstanding student. She has excelled in both courses."
He commended Aida's consistent attendance at class. Loupee said she always comes prepared and has been helpful to other students in both classes.
"She asks very intelligent, thoughtful questions. She's helpful to others in class when I'm busy or when someone else doesn't understand," he said. "She's the kind of student that teachers dream about having and I've been fortunate enough first semester to get her twice a day."
When she isn't impressing in the classroom, Aida could be found at a local soccer field.
"I've been playing soccer probably since I was, like, 9. I play year-round, too," she said. "I also like just getting a group of teammates or a group of friends and just going in to play some soccer."
Additionally, Aida said she runs cross country and enjoys going to the movies with her friends.
She said many people may not realize when they meet her that she isn't white.
"People think I'm caucasian, but I'm actually Hispanic. Both my parents are Mexican," Aida said. "I do speak Spanish, and I'm fluent and biliterate, too."
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Contact Adam Sodders at
(641) 753-6611 or
asodders@timesrepublican.com