May Student of the Month: McAlester's Madaline Alvarez

Derrick James, McAlester News-Capital, Okla.
·3 min read

Apr. 27—Where do you want to go to college and why?

I want to go to college at The University of Oklahoma, OU, because ever since I was a little girl, I always dreamed of going there. Now that my older brother is attending OU, it only makes me more eager to attend.

What is your list of accomplishments including scholarships received?

Some of my most notable accomplishments are making All-State Alternate on Piccolo junior year, All-State Alternate on Flute senior year, receiving 1st place in Chemistry at the SOSU Curriculum Contest, member of the National Honor Society, and a 6 year member of the SEOBDA All-District Honor Bands. I have received the Sower Award from OU, Oklahoma's Promise, and was offered a full ride and NCAA athletic contract for the Oklahoma Baptist University Marching Band.

What drives you to succeed?

Since my dad passed away in 2018, I struggled a bit in school to maintain my grades. But once I got better, I understood that my dad would have wanted me to keep going and push myself. His death was tragic, but I persevered, alongside my family, to become a better student. I have worked hard to be considered one of the top students in my class.

Who inspires you to excel in school and why?

My oldest brother, Anthony, has always inspired me to excel in school. He is extremely smart, and I want to be as smart as him one day. He not only inspires me but pushes me to challenge myself in AP classes.

What community activities are you involved in and what drives you to give back to the community?

In band, Mr. Price has told me about numerous ways to help out in the community. One thing that I help with is the Puterbaugh Clean Up before the first day of school. I give back to my community because when I first moved to McAlester, all my teachers helped me a lot. All my teachers have impacted me greatly, and it only makes me want to give back to the next generation of students.

What are your extracurricular activities and how do they improve your education?

I am in Band, Flute Choir, and Woodwind Choir. My music groups have helped me strive to not only become a better musician but also to understand that hard work truly does pay off. I work hard to receive the best grade I can get in all my classes.

How would a new car help achieve your future goals?

A new car would be beneficial for me and my future goals because my family does not have the money or resources to go out and buy a car. Having a car would help me not be dependent on others for rides and such. Since I am leaving McAlester, I would like to have a reliable source of transportation and to be able to come back and visit my family and this community.

—Derrick James