Say hello to senior Madisyn McDonald while you can because she’s soon going to be moving on up to bigger and brighter things! Having ranked ninth in Apopka’s class of 2021, it’s no wonder that she was able to get into some of the most prestigious schools in the state. However, before moving on with the rest of her life, Madisyn was kind enough to provide The Blue and White with an interview that made this article possible. So, sit back and relax as you get to know Madisyn McDonald!

For starters, are you attending school in-person or via launched? How have you felt about your experience?

I am currently attending school through LaunchED this quarter. Overall, I feel this school year has come with it’s challenges but gradually it has improved and I have definitely grown from the beginning of the school year.

What does your schedule look like this year?

Thankfully, I have been able to earn all of my required credits mostly before my senior year so I had a lot more leeway in selecting what classes I wanted to take this school year. The first semester I took 3 dual enrollment classes, and this semester I am only taking 1 dual enrollment class. For full year classes at school I am taking AP Psychology and Biomedical Innovations.

How would you describe the workload over the course of the year?

I have felt that my academic workload actually was lighter compared to the obligations I had with applying to college and scholarships. Deadlines for applications and keeping up with studying for testing definitely was tougher on my workload.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in?

For this school year I am involved in BETA club leadership, Senior Class Council, Science National Honor Society, Our Minds Matter, National Honor Society, and HOSA during my junior year.

Are there any achievements or highlights from your high school career that you are particularly fond/proud of? If so, what are they?

Throughout my high school career I think most of my most notable accomplishments have been in the latter end of my high school career including being ranked in the top ten (#9) and soon earning my white coat from the medical magnet. I also was super proud to earn my BACE Certification at the end of my junior year since I studied super hard to become certified. I also had a lot of fun winning group arts competitions in BETA club since sophomore year.

What are your plans for after you graduate?

After I graduate, I want to get a degree in biology/ biological sciences following the pre-med track. After I earn my degree I want to head to graduate school to become a PA.

Have you gotten into any colleges/have you made a decision yet?

So far I have gotten into UNF, Stetson, USF, FSU, UF, Spelman College, and I am waiting on a decision from Howard currently but I hope I get in. I am debating between FSU and UF but I am leaning more toward FSU.

Do you have any advice for Apopka students who started high school during COVID?

Advice I would have for Apopka students who started during the pandemic would be to keep their heads up for the next years of their high school career! Just because there was a rocky start to high school does not mean there will be a rocky ending. As hard as it is to hear sometimes with everything that 2020 has thrown at everyone, I do want to say that it does get better! At the beginning of the pandemic I struggled a lot mentally but throughout the process I have learned so much and grown so much as a person and if underclassmen can use this time to do the same, it definitely will get better! Continue to work hard and it will 100% pay off!

Do you have a favorite tv show or movie that you’d like to recommend?

Personally, I am really loving American Horror Story and Big Time Rush now that it’s on Netflix.

Do you have any hobbies that you particularly enjoy?

As much as I would love to consider napping a hobby, I do more practically enjoy sewing and crafting since I love being creative and making things. I also enjoy doing makeup and taking pictures.