A total of 138 students from the Big Country are competing at the University Interscholastic League's state academic meet in events ranging from feature writing to accounting.

These students have proven they are some of the brightest young competitors in UIL academics ... and now it's time for the ultimate test.

The meet starts Thursday and ends Saturday at the University of Texas in Austin.

Students make it to state by placing at the local, district and regional levels. Once they get to state, they can earn scholarships, letter jackets and glory for their schools.

Who are these students? What are their events? What's it like to prepare and compete? And, what are some things even their parents and friends don't know about them?

Find out the answers here in a special tribute blog to the Big Country's brightest. Each student is spotlighted, and comments are welcome at the end of each entry. The entries begin below, starting alphabetically by school. Or, click in the Categories section to the lower right to see students in specific events and schools.

Note to competitors: If you have Internet access while in Austin, update readers on the action by posting comments at the end of your Q&A blog entry. Got pictures of the excitement? We'll post those too. E-mail them to webmaster@reporternews.com. (Include your name, phone number, names of people in the photo and a brief description.)

Posted by · April 28, 2007 10:18 PM · Comments (0)

Age: 15

Grade: 10th

Event: UIL Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing in UIL Spelling since 3rd grade.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing about the event is the night before, because all you can do is think about your event and therefore you can’t get any sleep.

First thing you’ll do when you win: The first thing I’ll do is eat something, because my stomach can’t hold anything up until then!

Past honors in the event: I went to State as a freshman last year and placed fifth, and I have won district every year since 3rd grade (eight years total).

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am a member of my school newspaper staff, serve Wednesday night dinner at my local church, sing in the choir, and write in my spare time.

College plans: Ever since I was seven years old I have wanted to go to Hardin-Simmons University. I plan to get a degree in nursing.

Birthplace: Tyler, Texas USA

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Often in my dreams I re-enact past episodes of cable’s #1 series The Closer, in which I am the main character and I solve all of the cases.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:26 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: Calculator Applications

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting to the end of a number cruncher and messing up

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my parents and tell them we won

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, basketball, baseball, track, 4-H, National Honors Society

College plans: Angelo State University

Birthplace: San Angelo, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: Science

How long you’ve been competing: I've been competing since my Sophomore year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Nothing that I can think of.

First thing you’ll do when you win: First thing I'll do if I win is go home and go to sleep.

Past honors in the event: I went to State last year in UIL. I also placed in District and Regional. This year I placed third at District and fourth at Regional.

College plans: For college, I'm planning on going to Angelo State University. I'll probably major in some kind of math or science, but I'm really not sure what I'll do.

Birthplace: I was born in Odessa, Texas.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: 11th

Event: Calculator

How long you’ve been competing: One year in calculator, been in UIL since
junior high

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting
the number crunchers right

First thing you’ll do when you win: Give Mrs. Bowman a hug

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Number sense, mathematics,
calculator, basketball, cross country

College plans: Undecided

Birthplace: Forth Worth, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I'm an open person, they know everything

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Science

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years (junior and senior years)

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to memorize so many facts

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my parents

Past honors in the event: 2006 Team District and Region Champions, 2006 3rd Place Team at State, 2006 4th Place Individual at District

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Rotary Interact member, National Honors Society member, Bass Clef Baritone in Marching/Concert Band, UIL Computer Application Participant

College plans: Attend University of Texas at Dallas, major in Computer Science, obtain Master's degree

Birthplace: Stephenville, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: NOTHING!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 16

Grade: Junior

Event: Poetry Interpretation

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing since elementary and junior high, but have only competed for two years in high school.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking part of my event for me personally is the anticipation of waiting to find out if you've advanced to the next level.

First thing you’ll do when you win: First off if I won that would be amazing, but I guess the first thing I would do is call my family and friends that support me in everything I do, to share the exciting news with them.

Past honors in the event: 5th in Poetry at District in 2006, Best Actress in Zone, All Star Cast in District and Area for One Act Play in 2007, 2nd in Poetry at District and 2nd in Poetry at Regionals in 2007

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: One-Act Play, National Junior Honor Society, Rotary Interact, Junior Chamber of Commerce, Bearcats for Christ, Junior Class Officer, Church Youth Group, Cheerleading, and Band

College plans: To attend college at Texas State University in San Marcos, then attend medical school to become a Psychiatrist.

Birthplace: Winters, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (6)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: Calculator Applications and Science

How long you’ve been competing: Calculator Applications - 3 years, Science - 1year, began UIL in Jr. High

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting through the test as fast as I can

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my brother

Past honors in the event: State silver medalist team for the past two years

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, basketball

College plans: Attend Abilene Christian University

Birthplace: San Angelo, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (3)

Age: 17

Grade: Senior

Event: Calculator Applications

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Thinking on your feet

First thing you’ll do when you win: Hug my coach

Past honors in the event: 2A State 05-06 - 6th place individual, 2nd place team; Regional 06-07- 1st place individual, 2nd place team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Rotary Interact, National Honors Society

College plans: Attending Texas State University at San Marcos

Birthplace: Rota, Spain

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:25 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Ready Writing

How long you’ve been competing: First Year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: When your bus driver almost doesn’t get you to the event on time.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Go to prom that same day.

Past honors in the event: 2nd place at District, 3rd place at Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FCA President, study buddy, work program, cross country, local music program, Dead Poet’s Society

College plans: Study music and business at George Mason University in Virginia

Birthplace: Breckenridge

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I once saved a baby deer that was trapped in some brush on my family’s farm. I hurried when I realized a family of hogs were in intense pursuit ...

MySpace or Personal Web page link: myspace.com/Landon_Adams

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:20 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Ready Writing

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The time limit or choosing which prompt is the most nerve-wracking part.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Hug Mr. Clack and call Mr. Moore

Past honors in the event: 3rd place at District, 2nd place at Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Persuasive Speaking, Social Studies, CX Debate.

College plans: Hardin-Simmons University

Birthplace: Abilene

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I’m a poet, but they don’t know it ...Yes, I’m a dork.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: myspace.com/cutts07

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:20 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Editorial Writing

How long you’ve been competing: Four years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Not knowing what the issue will be until the event starts

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Current Events, Drama Club

College plans: Angelo State University

Birthplace: Brownwood

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:15 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: As you get better, so does everyone else.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my mom. Then my boyfriend.

Past honors in the event: I’ve placed several times at past invitationals and made it to Region every year that I’ve competed.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Yearbook.

College plans: Art School.

Birthplace: Brownwood.

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: They don’t know that I like to sneeze.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: girls_le_disko.livejournal.com

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: This is my first year to compete in Accounting.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most challenging thing about my contest is having to do so much in so little time.

First thing you’ll do when you win: The first thing I would do if I found out I won would be to laugh.

Past honors in the event: I also compete in the calculator contest. This year I placed third in the district meet and my team was the first-place team. I have competed in calculator for two years.

College plans: I am planning to go to the University of North Texas and major in accounting.

Birthplace: I was born in Brownwood.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 11th

Event: UIL Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: This is my first year competing in UIL

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: One little mistake can throw off a lot of answers

First thing you’ll do when you win: I'm not sure I'll even be able to think

Past honors in the event: I have placed a few times

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am Key Club Treasurer

College plans: The only thing I am sure of at this point is that I am going

Birthplace: Brownwood, but I have not lived here my whole life

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I like President Bush

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: Three years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results. Studying has never been a problem, but once crunch moment hits ... it's definitely nerve-wracking.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Every year, even after UIL is finished, we'll just continue studying during lunch.

Past honors in the event: Our team has gone to regionals all three years.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: French Club and I've done Ready Writing and Headline Writing once.

College plans: I'm hoping to attend the Art Institute of Dallas

Birthplace: Brownwood

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am sadly a very boring person with only a few similarly boring secrets.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Spelling & Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: This is my second year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Verification at Regionals =)

First thing you’ll do when you win: High-five my teammates

Past honors in the event: Various awards/team awards at invitationals, regional qualifiers, district champions

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I also do DECA, and in UIL I have competed in Headline Writing, Social Studies, and Current Events.

College plans: I want to attend a 4-year university to major in either foreign language or broadcasting

Birthplace: Burnet, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am the Brownwood area KOL Godfather

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.kingdomofloathing.com

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th

Event: Computer Applications

How long you’ve been competing: I've been competing in Computer Apps. for 2 years!

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: For me, the tiebreaker is the most nerve-wrecking thing about my event! I like to always type the most!!

First thing you’ll do when you win: I'm alternate at state. If I do get to compete and win, I'll call my parents afterwords!

Past honors in the event: 3rd place District, 4th place Region

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I did science UIL my sophmore year. I work at Doc's Drugstore and Dr. Oliver's office during the week.

College plans: I am majoring in biochemistry at the University of Texas!

Birthplace: Brownwood, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I used to have a baby opposum named GIRL!

MySpace or Personal Web page link: http://utexas.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1517850070

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18 years old

Grade: 12th grade

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing one year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Not knowing what to expect on the test, with so much information needed

Past honors in the event: 3rd in District; 5th in Region. Member of first place teams at district and regions

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FFA, Color Guard, National Honor Society, Choices

College plans: Attending Angelo State University next year

Birthplace: Brownwood

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Event: Poetry Interpretation

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing for 3 years.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most challenging part about my event is reading my piece because the number of people in a room watching ranges from eight to fifty (in some finals’ rooms). I can be a little bit spastic, but I usually take the nervous energy and channel it into my piece.

First thing you’ll do when you win: The first thing I would do if I won would be to gasp. After that, I would probably squeal.

Past honors in the event: My sophomore year I was alternate to region. Last year I didn’t compete in poetry interpretation at district.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I have also competed in ready writing and journalism events in UIL. I am in drama, NHS, and DECA.

College plans: I plan to attend the University of Texas at Dallas.

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Computer Applications

How long you’ve been competing: I've been competing in this competition for 4 years now.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: In computer applications, not only does one have only thirty minutes to complete a plethora of excel, access, and word data but it is also very intimidating to be in a room with other contestants that are all working to be the best.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will thank my coach, Doris Woolery, for giving me the opportunity to prove myself to the rest of the state and I will thank God for giving me the ability to do it all.

Past honors in the event: This will be my third year to qualify for state. In 2005 I placed 2nd in state in 4A and in 2006 I placed 1st in state in 4A.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am a national DECA qualifier for my 2nd year in a row. I am treasurer for my National Honor Society. I am a Fellowship of Christian Athletes officer and I am in various youth activity and health boards.

College plans: I plan to attend Baylor University in the fall and double major in Management Information Systems and Film and Digital Media.

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: When I was younger I wanted to pursue a degree in the medical field or even Greek philosophy.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 11th

Event: Accounting and Computer Applications

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years in Accounting and 3 years in Computer Applications

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to find out the scores and places at the state meet

First thing you’ll do when you win: Praise God and go get my medal

Past honors in the event: In Accounting in ’06, I took 1st at district, 2nd at region, and 4th at state. In Computer Applications in ’06, I took 1st at district and 4th at region.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Varsity Tennis, NHS, Student Council

College plans: I plan on getting my Associate Degree in Youth Ministry at Howard Payne when I graduate. I then plan on going to the University of Texas at Arlington to get my Bachelor in Aerospace Engineering.

Birthplace: Weatherford, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a passion for youth.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/deep_uprising

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 10:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th

Event: Headline Writing

How long you’ve been competing: I have only been competing in headline this year, but I have competed in UIL for four years.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Spelling. I’m an awful speller and I have to spend a lot of time looking up words.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I would probably just smile and hug whomever is the closest.

Past honors in the event: 2nd at district, 3rd in region

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Basketball, softball, band, feature writing, news writing, headline writing, debate, and extemporaneous speaking.

College plans: Cisco Junior College and the University of North Texas to major in journalism.

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love to dance in my mirror all the time, especially ballet.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/jew2207

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:41 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 19

Grade: 12

Event: Math and Science

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing since last year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: I came from China and I have only been here for more than a year, so language is a problem.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my mother, father, grandparents and my friends in China.

Past honors in the event: 2006-Brownwood Meet-Top Score Physics; Wylie Meet-4th place Math; District Meet-2nd Math, 3rd Science, 1st Physics

2007-Brownwood Meet-4th Math, 2nd Number Sense; Wylie Meet-5th Number Sense, 1st Math, 3rd Science, 1st Physics; Haskell Meet-6th Number Sense, 2nd Math, 2nd Science, 1st Chemistry, 1st Physics. District Meet-1st Math, 3rd Science, 1st Physics. Regional Meet-1st Math, 3rd Science, 1st Physics.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Elm Street Church of Christ and Youth Group.

College plans: University of Texas at Austin – Major in Business

Birthplace: Nanking (Nanjung) China.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:40 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 11

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: Social Studies 1 year; HS UIL 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for results

First thing you’ll do when you win: Stare at the results in amazement until the shock of reality finally hits

Past honors in the event: 2nd in district; 1st place district team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: State Band participant; Regional tennis qualifier; NHS; Student Council; Jr. Class represevtative

College plans: Major in pre-med

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Vanilla extract scares me a bit

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:31 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: It seems like forever....

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Remembering to bring a pencil

First thing you’ll do when you win: Stick it to the man (football is the man)

College plans: Bennington College

Birthplace: Lufkin, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:31 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 16

Grade: 11

Event: Spelling

How long you’ve been competing: High School 2 years; Middle School 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The study time

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank Mrs. Conner for helping me all year and then call my Mom.

Past honors in the event: District 2nd Place; Regional 1st place

College plans: Attend ASU and study nursing

Birthplace: Sylmar, California

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:31 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: Since 4th grade; Social Studies for 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Never knowing what to expect for the essay contest

First thing you’ll do when you win: Show it to my school to let them know that athletics isn’t everything

Past honors in the event: 2nd at Regionals; 1st District;

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Computer Applications; Calculator Applications; NHS; Student Council; Horse Shows

College plans: TCU major in accounting

Birthplace: Colorado City

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I think it's bad luck to sit in an orange chair during a test

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:31 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: News Writing and Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: News Writing 2 years; Social Studies 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: News-knowing the lead; Social Studies-remembering the dates

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my Dad

Past honors in the event: Regional 5th Place in news last year

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FCCLA; NHS; Student Council

College plans: Major in journalism at UNT

Birthplace: Colorado City, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have to borrow one of Mrs. Conner’s pencils at every UIL contest

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:31 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Cry, scream and go through a host of emotions.

Past honors in the event: 2006: Honorable Mention All Star Cast, District; 2007: Best Actress: Zone, Honorable Mention All Star Cast, District, All Star Cast, Area

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Class Vice President, NHS, Journalism, Current Events (1st place district), Basketball, Track, Cross Country

College plans: University of Texas

Birthplace: Stephenville, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: One-Act Play is my passion ... and it means more to me than any other competitive event.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The moments right before the play begins

First thing you’ll do when you win: Cry and hug my friends

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Volleyball, Basketball, Track (regional qualifier), Spelling, Journalism, Cheerleading, NHS

College plans: Texas State University

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The fear of letting my whole team down if I mess up.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Do the Miss America cry.

Past honors in the event: 2005: Best Actress, District and Regionals; 2006: All Star Cast, District and Area; 2007: All Star Cast Zone and Area, Best Actress District and Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Prose Interpretation, Spelling, Student Council, NHS, Vocal Solo and Ensemble

College plans: Definitely major in theatre, undecided about a college

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a secret wish to be a missionary.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 14

Grade: 9th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The moment on stage right before the lights come on.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Shoot up out of my seat screaming

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention All Star Cast Zone and Area

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band

College plans: Unsure, but I plan on pursueing a career in music

Birthplace: De Leon, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am very patient with small children.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting up in front of hundreds of people and acting like an idiot.

First thing you’ll do when you win: A backflip

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention All Star Cast, Area & Regionals, All Star Cast, District

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Basketball, Track (regional qualifier), Baseball, Science Team, Informative Speaking

College plans: Texas A & M to study business

Birthplace: De Leon, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I can stand on my hands for 47 seconds.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: All the rules and regulations that have to be followed precisely and the fear of messing up.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Hug my cast mates and cry! Celebrate!

Past honors in the event: 2005, All Star Cast, District, Area and Regionals; 2006, All Star Cast District, Honorable Mention All Star Cast, Area; 2007 Honorable Mention All Star Cast, Zone; All Star Cast, District, Area and Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Informative Speaking (1st at District), Calculator, Current Events, F & M Bank Board, Class President, NHS, Student Council

College plans: University of Texas, and then medical school

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I hate chocolate, styrofoam and hot dogs.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 16

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Remembering lines when I am nervous

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream and hug people

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention All Star Cast, Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Volleyball, Basketball, Track, Softball, NHS, Cheerleading, FCA leader

College plans: A four-year college

Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I always drive 5 miles below the speed limit.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to go on stage and waiting for the results.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God, then grab my sister and hug her.

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Literary Criticism, Mathematics, Band, Cheerleading, Girls Athletic Manager, FCA leader, NHS, Student Council

College plans: Texas A & M

Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I wear lifts in my shoes ...

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Being on stage.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Cry

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Bank Board, Current Events team

College plans: TCC and be a nurse

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am really shy.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 yrs.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Making sure you get all the cues and lines while performing

First thing you’ll do when you win: Shout with joy and triumph inside my head.

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, track and baseball

College plans: A four-year college

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a ticklish spot behind my earlobes.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The announcement of the advancing plays.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Social Studies and Current Events team

College plans: Weatherford College

Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am really rather shy, but you would never know by looking at me.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 14

Grade: 9th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Performing in front of a judge

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and down and hug whoever is closest to me

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Journalism, Band

College plans: New York State University in writing/literature

Birthplace: De Leon, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am writing a book

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 15

Grade: 9th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting backstage right before we go on.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up scream, cry and hug a friend

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross Country, Basketball, Track, Band, Mascot

College plans: Texas A & M, Designer

Birthplace: Ft. Worth, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I really love being singled out in a crowd and an entire restaurant singing "happy birthday"

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The wait. Waiting to perform and then waiting for the judge's decision.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will probably burst into tears and thank God and everyone who made this happen

Past honors in the event: All Star Crew, Zone; Outstanding Techical Crew (team) Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Drum Major, National Honor Society, Student Council, F & M Bank Board

College plans: Tarleton State University, major in psychology

Birthplace: Lockhart, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I sing in the shower!!!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 14

Grade: 9th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Listening to the critique.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Celebrate

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Student Council

College plans: Animal Medicine

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: That I am a little more sensitive than people know.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The five minutes before the performance

First thing you’ll do when you win: Celebrate

Past honors in the event: Winning OAP Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Band, Powerlifting, Journalism

College plans: Texas Tech

Birthplace: De Leon, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I walk, talk and drive in my sleep.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 15

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Moments before the advancing play is announced

First thing you’ll do when you win: Hug my sister

Past honors in the event: Outstanding Technical Crew (team) Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Student Council, Math team

College plans: I plan to major in Marine Biology, but I am not sure where yet.

Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love the smell of rain!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Creating and coordinating the light show

First thing you’ll do when you win: Give somebody a shake and bake

Past honors in the event: All Star Crew, District and Area; Oustanding Technical Crew (team), Regional

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Track, Editorial Writing (2nd place District Winner)

College plans: University of Texas

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am a very sensitive guy ... I cried when Bambi died.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Right before they call the advancing play

First thing you’ll do when you win: Shake and bake with Brody

Past honors in the event: Member of a winning team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Track (regional qualifier in pole vault), FCA, Poetry Interpretation, NHS, Student Council

College plans: Not sure

Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a great memory.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 16

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The five seconds before the alternate play is announced!

First thing you’ll do when you win: cry

Past honors in the event: 2006: Honorable Mention All Star Cast, District; All Star Cast, Area; 2007: All Star Cast, Zone, Regionals, Honorable Mention All Star Cast, District, Best Actor, Area

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, National Honor Society, Student Council, Prose Interpretation

College plans: Study drama at Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I sleep talk

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior, 11th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: It's so crazy when you are waiting for results. The whole time at regionals I kept thinking this could be the end. It is so fun, because this year goes to Kelsey.

First thing you’ll do when you win: cry

Past honors in the event: Outstanding Technical Crew, Regional Competition

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: National Honor Society, Student Council, UIL Spelling

College plans: Not sure

Birthplace: Brownwood, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I like to sing! even though I am really bad...lol

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:30 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12

Event: Ready Writing

How long you’ve been competing: Since February of this year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: You have to rely on the knowledge you already have because you never know what topics you are going to be given.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Probably call some friends and family.

Past honors in the event: 1st Place at Wylie Valentine Meet,
3rd Place in District 6-2A, 2nd Place Region 1-2A

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: CX Debate; LD Debate; persuasive extemporaneous speaking

College plans: I'm going to double major in Bible and Philosophy at Fred-Hardeman University in Henderson, TN

Birthplace: Fort Worth, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: My second favorite book is "1984"

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.prove-all-things.blogspot.com

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:25 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: junior

Event: Computer Applications

How long you’ve been competing: since I was a freshman

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: I'm hoping that I won't come to something that I don't know how to do and have to improvise just to finish the test on time...

First thing you’ll do when you win: Making it to State is an accomplishment in itself, but placing, even winning State would be an honor. I'm going to do my best and hope it's better than everyone else!!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:20 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 11th

Event: Journalism: Headline Writing

How long you’ve been competing: Just this year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Nothing really

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call Kim and then go eat

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross Country, basketball, track, tennis, baseball, cheerleading, FFA, Beta Club, History Club

College plans: I want to go to a fashion school and be an intern for a fashion magazine.

Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/scathey

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:19 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: since 3rd grade

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Too many words

First thing you’ll do when you win: Be relieved

Past honors in the event: Sophomore: District-1st, Regional-3rd, state qualifier; Junior: District-1st, Regional 1st, state qualifier; Senior: District-1st, Regional 3rd, state qualifier

College plans: Lubbock Christian University; Nursing

Birthplace: Reynosa, Mexico

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: They all know me too well

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:18 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: Current Events and Issues

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The essay at the end. You never know what it will be about.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Take a vacation to Disney World

Past honors in the event: District 2005-06 5th place; District 2006-07 2nd place; Regional 2006-07 3rd place

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Social Studies Contest

College plans: Texas Tech and then Law School

Birthplace: Snyder, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: People do not always realize that I actually have a very serious side to me.

My coach is Mrs. Glenna Edgin <<...>>

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:17 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 15

Grade: Freshman

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Performing under the strain of time limits, being the youngest team member and trying to excel to the level of my peers (including my own teammates). Also, I feel additional pressure because I am the first member of my family (on either parent's side) to ever compete at the state level in any school competition.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will call my mother, father and uncle to let them know how excited I am to have won at the state level (even though they are proud of me just for advancing to the state competition).

Past honors in the event: I'm a first timer

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Basketball

College plans: I am planning to attend Texas Tech where I will go to medical school to become a Pediatrician or a nutritionist.

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: If I told you, then they would know.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: Editorial Writing

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The TIME LIMIT

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my parents

Past honors in the event: 2006 - 2nd at District; 2007 - 2nd at District and 2nd at Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cheerleading, Basketball, Track, Golf, 4-H, Headline Writing, Feature Writing, Literary Criticism, Calculator, Number Sense

College plans: I'm not sure what college I will attend, but I am definitely planning to go.

Birthplace: Andrews, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love to eat French fries and chocolate milkshake ... you should try it.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Being Timed!!

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my family

Past honors in the event: 2006 - Member of 1st place Accounting team at District; 2007 - 2nd at District

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Number Sense, Calculator, Mathematics, Social Studies, Basketball, Tennis, Cross-Country, Band, Flags

College plans: I plan to attend the University of Texas

Birthplace: Payson, Utah

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: They know everything

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: If you read too fast, you miss the "tricky things" on the tests.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Smile and call my mom

Past honors in the event: 2006 - 1st at District and 8th at Regionals; 2007 - 1st at District and 1st at Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: NHS, Informative Speaking, Mathematics, News Writing

College plans: I plan to attend Texas Tech to get a Master's in Finance.

Birthplace: Weatherford, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I'm scared to fail

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: Senior

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The time limit.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my mom

Past honors in the event: Regional Qualifier last year

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FFA, 4-H, Basketball, Number Sense, Mathematics, Calculator, NHS

College plans: Will be attending Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Childress, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I don't like spiders

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Feature Writing

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The format at state includes an interview, which is not required at any other level. As of now, this is the most stressful aspect.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my dad.

Past honors in the event: Regional Qualifier (2 years)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Ready Writing, Basketball, Cross-Country, Track, Band

College plans: Attend Texas A&M and major in English

Birthplace: Lubbock, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Fish scare me.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:16 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 16

Grade: 11

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: Freshman year-third year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: To know the random outside words they put on district, regional, and state tests

First thing you’ll do when you win: I’m going to Disneyland, no but seriously, I’ll call my mom and ecstatically tell her the news

Past honors in the event: Freshman year - 2nd individually and 1st place team in District. 1st place team at Regionals. 2nd place team in State. Sophomore year - 4th individually and 1st place team in District. 5th individually and 1st place team at Regionals. 4th place team in State. Junior year - 1st individually and 1st place team in District. 7th individually and 1st place team at Regionals, and now on to State!

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), National Honor Society

College plans: I’m undecided of which college, but all I know is I want to go for 4 years and get my bachelor’s degree, and preferably out of Abilene.

Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: Two years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Recalling the astronomical amount of information to apply it

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and yell, “Success!” then enjoy a nice, long rest

Past honors in the event: 3rd Accounting I 2006 State FBLA Conference and 2nd Place Team 2006 State UIL.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Track, Student Council, PALs, Headline Writing, Ready Writing

College plans: Honors College at Texas Tech University

Birthplace: San Angelo, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I would attend University of Texas if it were not in Austin

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 11

Event: Mathematics and Calculator Applications

How long you’ve been competing: Mathematics - 1 year; Calculator - 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Mathematics - Because I'm new at this event, I'm always worried that I'm going to spend too much time on one problem and waste all of my time. It's hard to balance my time. Calculator - Doing the "punchers" because you have to go so fast that it is really easy to mess up.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my sister, Crystal.

Past honors in the event: Calculator - Regional Team Qualifier '06, 1st place District '07, 1st place team '07, State Team Qualifier '07

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am an officer in SADD, NHS, FBLA, Math Club. I am just a member of Student Council, FCA, and Science Club, and I also participate in Literary Criticism for UIL.

College plans: Honestly, I don't know yet, but God will provide the answer.

Birthplace: Fairbanks, Alaska

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Wow, tough... Some people know this about me, but I really like watching old Classic movies. My favorites are Singin' In The Rain, Oklahoma!, and Bringing Up Baby.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: One year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Remembering the definitions for the vocabulary

First thing you’ll do when you win: Praise God

College plans: Medical field or marine biology

Birthplace: Abilene, Tx.

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love dance

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: UIL Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: Four years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Well at first it was Alan, I always wanted to beat him but now its just the competition between our team members.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump for joy and yell, “SUCCESS!” Then I’m going to eat chocolate ice cream.

Past honors in the event: 1st place team at district in 2005, 2006, 2007; 1st place team at regional’s in 2005,2006, 2007; 2nd place team at State in 2005; 4th place team at State in 2006; State Qualifier in 2005, 2006, 2007

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA); Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA); National Honor Society; Student Council; Spanish Club; Science Club; Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD); Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)

College plans: Am still debating on where I will be attending university. It is either ACU or Texas Tech, and I will be majoring in Pre-Med.

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas at Hendricks Hospital

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a sixth sense. I can tell when there’s monkeys around.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 15

Grade: 10th

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 1 Year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Having to constantly learn something new and having to take so many tests.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will probably ask if they are serious!

Past honors in the event: District 2007 - 1st Place team, 4th Place individual; Regional 2007 - 1st Place team, 5th Place individual

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Number Sense, Math Club reporter, Science Club treasurer, FBLA, Spanish Club, FCA

College plans: No clue

Birthplace: Tyler, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: They know everything

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Mathematics, Calculator applications

How long you’ve been competing: Mathmatics: since 10th grade, Calculator:
this is my first year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying
not to let the others down. They are team events and, to succeed, everyone needs to contribute

First thing you’ll do when you win: Just pray and thank God for all my
wonderful blessings. I know none of this would be possible without his help.

Past honors in the event: Mathmatics: 3yr regional qualifier, State
alternate

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL: Number Sense, Science,
Computer Science, Cross Country, Tennis, NHS, PALs, SADD, FBLA, Math club,
Science Club, FCA

College plans: Attend McMurry University and major in elementary education

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Even though it might not always be evident, I love them very much

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: senior

Event: Mathematics and Calculator Applications

How long you’ve been competing: I have competed in calculator applications
every year since the 6th grade. I have competed in mathematics all four years of high school, computer science--the past two years, and accounting my sophomore year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Studying
and the pressure to do well on the test so I don't let my team members down

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my brother

Past honors in the event: 2nd consecutive year to advance to Regional
competition in Calculator and Computer Science

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Regional qualifier in tennis for
2nd consecutive year, regional qualifier in pole vault for the 3rd consecutive year, lettered in four varsity sports (Football, Basketball, Track, and Tennis), FBLA, FCA,SADD, Math Club, Science Club

College plans: Civil engineer major at Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Eastland, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am really a very shy, sensitive person who lacks self-confidence.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 10

Event: Current Issues and Events

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The essay

First thing you’ll do when you win: Sleep

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cheerleading, Track, Cross Country, Tennis, News Writing

College plans: Notre Dame or Gonzaga

Birthplace: Irving, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I don’t like Fridays unless it’s football season.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: There are different concepts at every level

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump for joy and yell, “success!”

Past honors in the event: 06- 4th district individual, 1st district team, 7th regional individual, 1st regional team, 2nd team state; 07- 2nd district individual, 1st district team, 7th regional individual, 2nd regional team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Beginning calculator and mathematics; church; varsity tennis; band – drum-line captain, state solo and ensemble on marimba; officer of 11 clubs/organizations at school.

College plans: I haven’t decided on a college, but I plan on going into either business management/finance/accounting or engineering.

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: My life is an open book

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Finding the time to study for all 1,500 words and 350 vocab. words

First thing you’ll do when you win: Say Oh my goodness! I’m so excited! and then smile really BIG

Past honors in the event: A part of the team that won 2nd at State in 2005, a part of them team that got 3rd at State in 2006, 3rd in district and 3rd at Regionals in 2007

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Student Council Treasurer, FBLA Secretary, Class Officer, SADD and FCA Leadership Committee, Spanish and Math Club, Head Varsity Cheerleader, State Qualifying Power Lifter, and Track; 2006 2A State Pole Vault Champion

College plans: Pole Vault at Texas Tech, major in Biology, and become a pharmacist

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I brush my teeth for exactly two minutes twice a day

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: Junior

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: Three years, since my Freshman year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Just all the material, it sometimes covers up to forty years of history and there are very detailed things that some history teachers have never seen before, and I’ve always been the guy that everyone beats early in the practice meets (3rd at everyone) and I have to take the verbal abuse but when it counts I win.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I’m not there yet, I’ve got to win first.

Past honors in the event: 2005 2nd place team district, 2006 2nd place Individual District, 1st place Team District, 2006 5th place Individual Regional, 2006 1st place Team Regional, 2006 3rd place Team State, 2007 2nd place Individual District, 2007 1st place Regional

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Powerlifting, Woodworking, Reading

College plans: Major in History, minor in Accounting

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Current Issues & Events

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and yell SUCCESS!

Past honors in the event: 2005 State Qualifier

College plans: University of North Texas

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I do yoga in my spare time

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/aggies

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Current Issues & Events

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most
challenging part of Current Events is that the questions can be about anything in the news from August to April, so you have to continuously study and keep up with the news everyday for 8 months.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Get some sleep.

Past honors in the event: 2007: 2nd at Regionals, 1st at District; 2006: 2nd at State, 1st at Regionals, and 2nd at District; 2005: On the state qualifying team.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL Editorial Writing, UIL
Persuasive Speaking, FBLA, Spanish Club, Student Council, and National Honor
Society.

College plans: Cornell University

Birthplace: Irving, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: hm...

MySpace or Personal Web page link: myspace.com/philip400

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Current Issues & Events

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my mom.

Past honors in the event: 1st place team district, 2nd individual, 1st place team regional, 1st individual

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), Science Club, Math Club, Book Club, & dance

College plans: McMurry University

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Accounting, Calculator Applications, and Mathematics

How long you’ve been competing: I have been competing in Calculator since
6th grade. I started Math my sophmore year and all other events last year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Going as
fast as I can without making stupid mistakes, and not letting my coaches and
teams down.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God that He gave me the abilities
to succeed! And yell SUCCESS!!

Past honors in the event: 2nd Place Team, and 7th Individual at State in
accounting; 4th Place Team at State in Mathematics

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Computer Science, Computer
Applications, and Science; FBLA, Math Club, Science Club, Speech and Drama
Club, Spanish Club, and Band.

College plans: Rice University to major in Electrical and Mechanical
Engineering

Birthplace: Fort Worth, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am afraid of failure.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/4ashli4

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Literary Criticism

How long you’ve been competing: Literary Criticism - 4 years; Total UIL Experience - 11 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Studying for the Elements of Literature portion of the event. There are 30 questions taken from A Handbook to Literature. What makes it so hard is the amount of information I have to study to be able to answer those questions. The handbook is as thick as a novel and it's like studying a dictionary!

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God for His part in everything I do. Then, I'll call everyone on my contacts list to tell them the good news.

Past honors in the event: 2004: District: 2nd Place Individual and 1st Place Team; Region: 5th Place Individual

2005: District: 1st Place Individual and Team; Region: 6th Place Individual

2006: District: 1st Place Individual and Team; Region: 3rd Place Individual; State: 6th Place Individual

2007: District: 1st Place Individual and Team; Region: 3rd Place Individual

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, , Basketball, Cross Country, Track, FFA, 4-H, Beta Club, One-Act Play, UIL Calculator Applications, UIL Mathematics

College plans: Howard Payne University

Birthplace: Hendrick Medical Center, Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I don't really have any interesting tidbits of information that are secret. I want people to know me for who I am, and if I hide myself behind secrets we will never be as close as we could be otherwise.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:06 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play – plays Cripple Billy

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Staying out of trouble,.... its hard.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Do a happy dance.

Past honors in the event: 2 years Best Actor, 2 years Honorable mention,
4 years All Star Cast

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Athletics, FFA, Band, Clic

College plans: To pursue acting

Birthplace: Wichita Falls

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I’m really a good, nice, sweet person DEEP, REALLY DEEP, down!!!!!! Lol

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play – “The Cripple of Inishmaan” as Mammy

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to act 90 years old and drunk.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God.

Past honors in the event: Advanced to Area last year.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross Country, Basketball, Track, Band, L.D. Debate

College plans: To become a Pediatric Nurse

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 15

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play – plays Johnnypateenmike

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting before going onstage.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I’ll probably yell, jump up and down, and then just be with everyone who helped and supported us.

Past honors in the event: Best Actor – Zone, Honorable Mention - District

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Athletics, Band, Debate, UIL Science, Persuasive Speaking, and Mathematics

College plans: Go to college and get a degree

Birthplace: Wichita Falls, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have fun doing all these extracurricular activities

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 16

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting the timing perfect. I’m the sound technician.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Cry and hug all the others in the play.

Past honors in the event: Zone, District, Area, Regional Winner

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band UIL

College plans: Go to college and get a degree

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love getting on the internet to talk to friends.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 16

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play – plays Bartley McCormick

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The first minute I’m onstage.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Pass out.

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention All Star Cast.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Ag, Football, Golf, Track

College plans: ACU

Birthplace: Abilene, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Everyone knows everything about me.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 16

Grade: 10th

Event: One-Act Play – plays Doctor McSharry

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting up on stage with all those people watching.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Pass out.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Basketball, track, UIL, and Clic

College plans: Go to college and get a degree

Birthplace: Dimmit, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I can’t see out of my left eye.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play – Stage Manager

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Making sure everything gets to the contest site.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Just stand there stunned, then hug someone

Past honors in the event: Advanced to Area last year.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, CX Debate, CLIC

College plans: Attending Vernon College and graduating as an LVN

Birthplace: Haskell, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am a shy person.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One Act Play – “The Cripple of Inishmaan” as Helen

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing about the play for me is being the most wretched and mean girl to everyone in the play, when in reality I wouldn’t hurt a fly!

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will cry and probably hyperventilate and PRAISE GOD for it!

Past honors in the event: Zone - Honorable Mention All-Star Cast (2006), District - All-Star Cast (2007), Area - Honorable Mention All Star Cast (2007).

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Golf, Student Council, UIL Academics (Prose and Headline Writing), and CLIC Junior Representative.

College plans: I am going to attend Midwestern State University for something which I haven’t decided yet. It’s a hard topic to decide on and on top of that I’m very indecisive! I’m thinking maybe a Teacher ... possibly!

Birthplace: Wichita Falls, Texas at Wichita General Hospital

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have multiple personalities! No I don’t! Wait...Yes I do! Hmm.....?

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One Act Play – Stage Manager

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: As stage manager, trying to keep everything organized and everyone from being stressed.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Sit in shock!!

Past honors in the event: Advanced to Area Freshman through Junior year and Outstanding Stage Manager Freshman through Junior years.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross Country, Basketball, Track, Band, UIL Academics

College plans: Education degree

Birthplace: Seymour, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Nothing!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play – Lighting Tech

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Learning a new board and lighting plot at each new site.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call people back home.

Past honors in the event: Tech Award - Area

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: CLIC

College plans: Attend South Plains College

Birthplace: Wichita Falls, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: One-Act Play – “The Cripple of Inishmaan” as Kate

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing is standing behind the curtain as the music starts playing knowing that I have to deliver the first line with the Irish accent, and having a conversation with a stone.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Once I remember to breathe again, I will have to ask the person next to me if I was hearing things or we really just won!

Past honors in the event: Zone - All-Star Cast (2007), District - Honorable Mention All-Star Cast (2006, 2007), Regional - Honorable Mention All-Star Cast (2007)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross-X Debate, golf, tennis, UIL Academics (Spelling and Vocabulary, Editorial Writing, Calculator, and Prose), CLIC Reporter, Student Council, and FFA

College plans: I am going to attend Midwestern State University to pursue a degree in Business and International Relations.

Birthplace: Wichita Falls, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: If I told, then they would know!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (3)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: One-Act Play – plays Babbybobby

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The long hours are challenging.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I’ll smile and jump up out of my seat.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross Examination Debate, Band, Persuasive Speaking

College plans: Graphic Design Major from Midwestern State University

Birthplace: Seymour, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I am very, very outgoing.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: One-Act Play – plays Eileen

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The long hours are the worst. We’ve spent about eight hours a week since the first week of January on our play. Everything has been worth it.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I’ll cry. My makeup will run down my face and smear, but I won’t care. Everything has been worth it. Everything.

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention All-Star Cast (3 Years: 2004-2007), All-Star Cast (3 years: 2004-2007), and Best Actress (1 Year: 2007)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band (Region Band member 3 years), Choir (MHS doesn’t have a choir program, but I was in the Region choir this year) UIL Academics (Social Studies, Poetry Interpretation, Literary Criticism)

College plans: I’ll be attending Oklahoma State University and pursuing a degree in English this fall. Of course, I’ll end up with at least a minor in theatre.

Birthplace: Haskell, Texas ... but Munday is my hometown!

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: There isn’t really much that my friends don’t know. I’m not afraid to be myself. It doesn’t matter who I’m in front of, I’m me. What you see is what you get. I might strike a random pose or two, but don’t be surprised.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:05 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Feature Writing

How long you’ve been competing: 1 yr.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: It's really hard to keep all of my thoughts on the same track. I tend to over think things so I usually have to tone it down a bit so my paper is what the judges are looking for.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Probably laugh, cry, jump up and down, then I'll call my momma.

Past honors in the event: 2nd at District and 1st at Regional

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I participated in persuasive speaking and placed 5th at District; Cross Country, Art, and One-Act (Drama)

College plans: I will be attending the University of Oklahoma in August, Majoring in Art History, and now due to my success in Feature Writting I'm looking at a Minor in Journalism.

Birthplace: Sweetwater, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: To psyche myself up for something (One-Act, Cross Country, U.I.L.) I dance to music in my head to work out all the nervous jitters and just be a little silly, I think being too serious isn't always a good thing.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/whitneyortega

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:01 AM · Comments (1)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Prose Interpretation

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Having someone reading an excerpt from the same book you are reading from in the finals and then having them be almost the same excerpt.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Usually cry! Since this is my senior year I am always afraid that I am not going to advance and then when I do I am so happy that I end up crying! Just ask my coach!

Past honors in the event: 5th Place my sophmore year at District. Then this year 3rd place at the Wylie Invitational Meet, 1st place at the Irion County Invitational Meet, 2nd Place at District, 1st place at Regionals.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Piano, Band, One Act Play, Prose, and Cheerleading, First Baptist Church Youth group and church organist.

College plans: I plan to attend Angelo State University and major in Elementary Education Early Childhood through 4th grade.

Birthplace: Childress, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Before I enter the room to speak my coach and I step to the side and I do the same vocals for him that I do for One-Act Play before we perform, this helps me to say my words correctly and really articulate them. Since I have started doing this I have not made it to finals so maybe that is my good luck charm! One thing is for sure I will definantly be doing them at State!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 9:01 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 12

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: Two years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Learning different concepts for each level (District, Region, State)

First thing you’ll do when you win: “I’m going to Disneyland”

Past honors in the event: 1st Place Team – District, Wild Card Team, 3rd place Team – State

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Golf, National Honor Society

College plans: Auburn University, Pharmacy

Birthplace: La Grange, GA

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I cannot sleep past 7:00 in the morning.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:19 AM · Comments (2)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Computer Science

How long you’ve been competing: Second year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The programming part of the team event

First thing you’ll do when you win: Celebrate

Past honors in the event: National Honor Society

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Currently playing in Regional Tennis mixed doubles; Science – 2nd District

College plans: Texas A & M

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:19 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Accounting

How long you’ve been competing: Two years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results

First thing you’ll do when you win: “I’m going to Disney World”

Past honors in the event: 1st Place – District, 1st place – Regionals, 5th place – State

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Student Council, Band, National Honor Society

College plans: Texas Tech University, Physician’s Assistant Studies

Birthplace: Ft. Benning, GA

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: If I told you it, wouldn’t be a secret

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com\soar\60th

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:19 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 14

Grade: 9th

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to see if we advance

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and down.

Past honors in the event: Zone, District, Area, Regional and State advancing play

College plans: University of Texas

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 15

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: All the different critiques I get from different judges.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and Down!

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention and All Star Cast

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross-Country, Basketball, Track, Ag Cheerleading, Prose

College plans: Hope to attend Texas Tech

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have a bruise from all the times I’ve been popped with a towel in our play.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 15

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting for the results

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cheerleading, Basketball, Cross-Country, Ag

College plans: University of Texas

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 15

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: All of the results

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream

Past honors in the event: All Star Cast at Area

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Extemporaneous Informative Speaking, Football, Basketball, sports

College plans: University of Texas

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Still watch Nickelodeon

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 14

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year in high school, 2 years in middle school

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Stage fright, but I overcome it.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and down and hug my friend Marni.

Past honors in the event: In middle school, Honorable Mention and All Star Cast

College plans: Texas Tech major in agriculture

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I really love to sing and my goal in life is to sing in at least 1 concert! I would be amazing!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 14

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year - 2 years in Middle School

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Long practices of just sitting there.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream

Past honors in the event: First place play in both 7th and 8th grade district competition. AllStar cast in 8th grade.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Poetry

College plans: Texas Tech

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love being crazy!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 15

Grade: Freshman

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: First year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The strict rules at competitions

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and down

Past honors in the event: Zone, District, Area and Regional advancing plays

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Informative Speaking, Current Issues and Events, Football, Basketball, FCA, Track, and Baseball

College plans: I hope to attend Texas A & M University in the fall of 2010

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I’m not a very good HALO player.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Staying in my crazy character

First thing you’ll do when you win: Have fun with my friends

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention and All Star Cast

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Baseball, Track, Ag,

College plans: Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Visalia, CA

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to see who advances

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream and give God the glory

Past honors in the event: 2 Honorable Mentions and AllStar Cast.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Prose Interpretation, Student Council, Athletics, FCA

College plans: Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (6)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to make my character real in front of a large crowd of people.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, basketball, Baseball, Extemporaneous Speaking and youth group activities.

College plans: Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The waiting involved

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Track, PowerLifting, Ag

College plans: ACU

Birthplace: Temple, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 16

Grade: Sophomore

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: This is my first year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The seconds right before we go on stage

First thing you’ll do when you win: Jump up and down and yell

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: FFA

College plans: Undecided

Birthplace: Jasper, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (5)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve wracking thing about your event: Being in front of a large audience

First thing you’ll do when you win: Probably start crying!

Past honors in the event: This is the first year I have ever advanced in One-Act Play

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Cheerleading, FFA, Poetry Interpretation.

College plans: Currently undecided

Birthplace: Wichita Falls, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (8)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Disqualifications

First thing you’ll do when you win: Give my best friend a hug

Past honors in the event: State Qualifying Play in 2005

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Basketball, Track, Student Council, PALS, Class Officer, Yearbook, UIL spelling, and OAP.

College plans: Midwestern State University to study physical therapy

Birthplace: Dublin, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: One-Act Play is my all-time favorite extracurricular activity!

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (11)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Dealing with Mrs. Martin

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God

Past honors in the event: AllStar Crew

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Class president, NHS, Student Council, FFA, Editorial Writing, Band

College plans: University of North Texas to become a magazine editor

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (4)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Find out out the results when the advancing teams are announced

First thing you’ll do when you win: Hug the person beside me, then call my close friends

Past honors in the event: District advancing play – Honorable Mention at District, AllStar cast at Area.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Cross-Country, Basketball, Softball, Track, Cheerleading, PAL, Student Council, NHS, FCA

College plans: Texas Tech University to study pharmacy

Birthplace: Lubbock, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (7)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to find out if you get to advance

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank God

Past honors in the event: District advancing play -- 2006

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football

College plans: Hardin-Simmons University

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I like to watch musicals

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (8)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Waiting to go on stage and perform

Past honors in the event: Honorable Mention (2); AllStar Cast (3)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL Math, Football

College plans: Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Stamford, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (15)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Our teacher, Mrs. Martin.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Yell

Past honors in the event: Zone: AllStar Cast, District: Honorable Mention AllStar Cast; Area: AllStar Cast

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, Basketball, Golf, Track, Prose

College plans: Texas Tech University

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (8)

Age: 17

Grade: Senior

Event: One-Act Play

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Our Coach, Kelly Martin ....

First thing you’ll do when you win: Yell

Past honors in the event: 2005: Best Actor, District, Area and AllStar Cast - State.

2006: Best Actor, District. AllStar Cast, Area.

2007: Honorable Mention AllStar Cast-Zone and Regional, AllStar Cast - Area; Best Actor - District.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Prose Reading, Football, Basketball, FFA, NHS, Student Council, FCA, Computer Science

College plans: Attend Texas Tech University and possibly play football

Birthplace: Stamford, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (6)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: Persuasive Extemporaneous Speaking

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Having to know everything about everything and everything you say is objective to the judge.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Take a break

Past honors in the event: Last year I was 2nd in District. This year I was first in District and 2nd in Regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, Ag, Student Council, NHS

College plans: Texas A & M University and major in Ag Business

Birthplace: Stamford, TX

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:17 AM · Comments (6)

Age: 17

Grade: 12

Event: Literary Criticism

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The amount of studying required to do well

First thing you’ll do when you win: Congratulate, and thank my teammates for their hard work

Past honors in the event: Numerous first place team finishes, and several individual top-six finishes

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Editorial Writing

College plans: I plan to attend Texas Tech University and pursue a career in Computer Science

Birthplace: Dublin, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I don’t see myself as a good writer, even though I went to State in Editorial Writing last year (and placed 6th)

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Literary Criticism

How long you’ve been competing: Four years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The first 30 questions of the test

First thing you’ll do when you win: Laugh

Past honors in the event: 1st place team at both the 2007 District 8-4A and Region 1 UIL meets

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: One-Act Play

College plans: U. T. Austin for the RFT program

Birthplace: Stephenville

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: that I have fantastic hair and I like trashy romance novels (Kitsch)

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 15

Grade: 9

Event: Current Events & Issues

How long you’ve been competing: One year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to keep up with the seniors and juniors

First thing you’ll do when you win: Congratulate everyone

Past honors in the event: None

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Basketball and softball

College plans: None yet

Birthplace: Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Current Issues and Events

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The unpredictability of material

First thing you’ll do when you win: Going to Disney World!

Past honors in the event: 2006 State Champions

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Science, math, and journalism UIL; FCA, NHS, Science Club, Student Council, Church

College plans: I'm going to UT Austin to study pre-med and chemical engineering

Birthplace: Dublin, TX

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/clintd07

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Literary Criticism

How long you’ve been competing: This is my first year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing is worrying about what will appear on the test because there is so much information I need to know.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Scream!

Past honors in the event: This was my first year to do literary criticism so I’m just excited to have made it to state.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Regional Quarter finalist in volleyball, vice-president of FCCLA

College plans: I will be attending Texas A&M University majoring in communications.

Birthplace: Dallas, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I want to serve barbecue at my wedding.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Literary Criticism

How long you’ve been competing: 1 year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to learn what will be on the first thirty questions

First thing you’ll do when you win: Smile

Past honors in the event: 4th at District individually and 1st place individual at Region 1 UIL Meet (both in 2007)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band

College plans: U.T. Arlington for architecture

Birthplace: Dallas, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I time brushing my teeth for exactly 3 minutes (father is a dentist)

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12

Event: Current Issues & Events

How long you’ve been competing: 4 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to guess what the fated essay will be about

First thing you’ll do when you win: Our team's traditional "turtle dance"

Past honors in the event: State Champion Team 2006 and 6th Place Individual at State

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: News Writing, Feature Writing, Headline Writing, CX Debate, Student Council, National Honor Society, Science Club, Spanish Honor Society

College plans: University of Texas to pursue a career in Pharmacy

Birthplace: Fort Worth, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I'm pretty open, so there really isn't anything.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/cgraves07

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Current Events & Issues

How long you’ve been competing: Three years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Writing the essay without editorializing

First thing you’ll do when you win: Congratulate the seniors on the team

Past honors in the event: 3-time District Champion (05-07); Regional Champion (97); 3rd at State (06)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL Social Studies, HOSA, Science Club, Church youth group

College plans: Not certain, possibly Baylor

Birthplace: Fort Worth, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 28, 2007 12:15 AM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th grade

Event: Headline Writing

How long you’ve been competing: 3 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: It was challenging at regionals because I had taken the ACT in the morning and then at 2:00 had my UIL competition. This added a lot of pressure and stress.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Go to Disneyland

Past honors in the event: 2006 – 6th place at district and 2007 – 1st at district and 2nd at regionals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, basketball, golf, tennis, OAP site crew

College plans: Attend Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, LA

Birthplace: Olney, Texas

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: When I was younger, I was scared of dogs.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:52 PM · Comments (0)

Age: 18

Grade: Senior

Event: Persuasive Speaking

How long you’ve been competing: I have competed all four years in High School and also competed in Junior High UIL.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing about Persuasive Speaking is trying to find enough information for any topic that UIL may choose to throw at us.

First thing you’ll do when you win: The first thing I’d do if I won would be call my parents! After that I’d try not to boast because I’m not any better than any of the other competitors. At this level of competition, everyone is awesome!

Past honors in the event: 1st place in 2006 and 5th place in 2007 at the Wylie Valentine Classic Invitational UIL Meet; 2-time regional qualifier.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL Headline Writing, UIL Current Issues & Events, Winters High School Student Council, Pride of West Texas Marching Blizzard Band, First Baptist Church of Winters Youth

College plans: I plan to attend the University of North Texas to pursue a degree in Radio, TV and Film.

Birthplace: I was born in Abilene, Texas.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:51 PM · Comments (0)

Age: 15

Grade: 9

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years (counting this year)

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Studying, reading all the boring documents.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Celebrate, eat!

Past honors in the event: in 8th grade 1st place; individual and team, 9th grade 2nd, 5th, and 3rd place in district, 1st place team in district, 4th in regional, 1st place team in region

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Football, FCA, Texas Citizens Bee.

College plans: Go to USC, Fight On Trojans!

Birthplace: Littleton, Colorado.

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I've broken 15 bones, 2 concussions, 13 stitches

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th (Junior)

Event: Current Events

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Trying to find time to study.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my parents.

Past honors in the event: Alternate for last year's team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Varsity Softball, NHS, Student Council, youth group

College plans: possibly Texas A&M, Texas Tech, or UTA

Birthplace: Abilene

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I love to shop at Goodwill for t-shirts.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (3)

Age: 16

Grade: 11th (Junior)

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: I’ve done Spelling and Vocabulary since 9th grade.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: I think Spelling and Vocabulary is difficult because your have to memorize a lot of definitions and know how to spell and put accents on foreign words.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call my parents and celebrate!

Past honors in the event: In 2005, our team was 2nd place at state.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am in a Section Leader in the band, a co-chair of a council in Student Council, and in National Honor Society.

College plans: I think I want to go UT in Austin, and then go to medical school.

Birthplace: London, England.

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: My favorite TV show is Seinfeld.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (4)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: This is my 2nd year

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The words that aren't on the spelling list

First thing you’ll do when you win: Faint

Past honors in the event: 4 medals and 5 ribbons and 6 team medals

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: UIL: Math, Number Sense, Computer Science. Extracurricular: Spanish Club.

College plans: Double Major: Spanish, Computer Science. College: Somewhere in Texas!

Birthplace: Abilene

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: It had something to do with a bottle of pepper spray and naivety. I'll just say that it was a great excuse to go watch "A Night at the Museum."

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 12th Grade

Event: Spelling and Vocabulary

How long you’ve been competing: 3 Years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The most nerve-wracking thing is pretty much keeping handwriting neat. The most challenging thing is the list of outside words.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I haven't decided upon what I'll do if I win.

Past honors in the event: I have gone to state for the past two yrs in this event, this being the third. I have received 2nd, 1st, 1st in District - 3rd, 3rd, 1st in Regionals (Consecutive Years of Competition).

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I have competed in Number Sense, Current Events, and Math as well, but have been most successful in Spelling and Vocabulary. Extracurricular activities include NHS, Chess Club/Key Club in previous high school.

College plans: I plan to major in Biomedical Engineering at Texas A&M University and hope to get into Medical School.

Birthplace: Royal Oak, Michigan

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: Being a Hindu by birth, I have a deep interest in Eastern Philosophy, particularly in the depths of Indian Religion, primarily Hinduism, and the Vedanta Philosophy. Also, I write poetry and play table tennis frequently.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: This is my second year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Getting a really good score on the essays, but it isn't something I lose sleep over. I just do like my wonderful English teachers taught me.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Breathe

Past honors in the event: First place team and fourth place individual in district (2007), first place team and second place individual at region (2007)

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Band, track, Texas Citizen's Bee, and I play both flute and trumpet

College plans: I will be going to a wonderful school of music at some college to get a degree in music performance on flute, and a degree in music education so I can become a conductor and eventually teach.

Birthplace: Pennsylvania

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: That is for me to know and those close to me to find out

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

Event: Social Studies, Current Events

How long you’ve been competing: I've been competing since I was a freshman in current events, since I was a sophomore in social studies

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: It's always slightly nerve-wracking to think about what the questions are going to be, espeically the essay

First thing you’ll do when you win: I will probably celebrate not having to worry about UIL for 4 months

Past honors in the event: Won state current events in 2005 and 2006 as a team, won 3rd place individual in current events in 2006, won state social studies in 2006 as a team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I play football, and I am also active in FCA, Beltway youth group, Student Council, PALS, NHS, and am currently working at Beltway Park after school

College plans: Not sure what I want to major in, but will probably go to either Texas A&M or Baylor

Birthplace: Abilene

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (9)

Age: 15

Grade: 10

Event: Social Studies

How long you’ve been competing: Since 8th grade

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The essay part of the test

First thing you’ll do when you win: Call family

Past honors in the event: 1st place in social studies at Regional held in Odessa on 4-14-07

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Wylie football since 7th grade, member of the Wylie Pure Gold Band since 6th grade

College plans: Texas A&M University

Birthplace: Mineral Wells, Texas

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (2)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: Number Sense

How long you’ve been competing: 5 years (since my 6th grade year)

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Answering 80 questions accurately and precisely within that ten-minute interval. Pretty nerve wracking, especially when the number one guy is sitting on your right and knowing that you have to beat him.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Cheer. That and then call my parents and then my girlfriend telling them that I just won.

Past honors in the event: (I sat down and actually started counting them) 5 trophies, 49 medals, 5 ribbons

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Meals on Wheels, Youth Leadership at Holy Family; I also do Calculator Applications and Mathematics

College plans: I plan on going to either Baylor, ACU, or Texas Tech. Then I plan on going to another 4 years of medical school.

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I procrastinate too much. Yes I may be Asian, but I don't constantly study and I put off homework ... at least until the next morning.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: http://www.myspace.com/soi_sauce

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Event: Feature Writing

How long you’ve been competing: This is my second year.

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The way my event is graded makes it difficult. It gets to be somewhat opinionated. I can follow the rules on the style of writing 100%, but it's up to the judge on whether or not the overall article is good.

First thing you’ll do when you win: I won't believe it, and then I'll call my family. First my grandma, then my parents.

Past honors in the event: Last year I won 2nd place at the Sonora UIL Meet and 6th place at the district meet. This year I won 1st at the district meet, and 3rd at region.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I'm also in the Pure Gold Band, in which I am next year's Senior Drum Major, and I write for the school newspaper.

College plans: I plan on going to the University of North Texas in Denton and major in journalism.

Birthplace: Abilene

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I don't thank my family and friends enough for their support through everything. If I start to doubt myself, they are always there to keep me going. Without them I wouldn't accomplish my goals.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (8)

Age: 17

Grade: 11

Event: Current Issues and Events

How long you’ve been competing: I have competed in Current Events for 3 years ( 9th, 10th and 11th grade)

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: The hardest part about Current Events is getting studying done at our meetings, because we spend most of out meetings laughing incessively. The most nerve-wracking part of Current Events is wating for the results, because the whole time you're thinking about what you could've added to your essay or that you put the wrong answer down on the multiple-choice questions.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Take a picture with Bobby Hawthorne, (the man who writes the Current Events test)!

Past honors in the event: Freshman: District - 3rd place individual, 1st place team; Regionals - 6th place individual, 1st place team; State - 3rd place individual, 1st place team.

Sophmore: District - 2nd place individual, 1st place team; Regionals - 2nd place individual, 1st place team; State - 1st place team.

Junior: District - 1st place individual, 1st place team; Regionals - 3rd place individual, 1st place team.

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: I am a member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church and am very active in the youth group and youth choir. I am the Co-community Impact Coordinator for the United Way Youth Council, I've volunteered over 250 hours in the past 3 years. I am a Co-Chair for the Teacher Appreciation Commitee of WHS Student Council. I have participated in the school musical, WHS track, and Pioneer Drive's Easter Pageant. I was the 2006 HOBY Youth Sponsor for Wylie High School.

College plans: I hope to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in International Affairs, I hope to spend most of my college semesters studying abroad.

Birthplace: Abilene, TX

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I never go more that one month without breaking at least one dish.

MySpace or Personal Web page link: www.myspace.com/maaaaarylynn

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (2)

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Event: Current Events

How long you’ve been competing: 2 years

What’s the most challenging/nerve-wracking thing about your event: Wimberley’s team was only one point behind us at Regionals.

First thing you’ll do when you win: Thank Coach Clark for all her work.

Past honors in the event: 2006 State Championship Team

Extracurricular activities/other UIL events: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Ballet, and Persuasive Speaking

College plans: Texas A&M! Gig ‘em!

Birthplace: Abilene (The most beautiful town I ever seen.)

One thing your parents, a sibling or even a best friend might not know about you: I have contemplated joining the Peace Corp after college.

Posted by Nathaniel Ellsworth · April 27, 2007 11:50 PM · Comments (1)