Leah Jennings
COLUMBUS INTERNATIONAL 17 Junior 3.71 (National Honor Society) Soccer, track and field
She has visited Akron, Ohio, Kentucky and Ohio State-Mansfield. Applied mathematics is a possible major.
Why applied mathematics?
I have enjoyed mathematics since fourth grade. At one time I wanted to go into mathematics education, but I came to open house here with my mother earlier this year and a teacher said I would make more money in applied mathematics. Not many schools have it only as a track and not as a major. The University of Akron and Ohio University do have applied mathematics as a major.
Where do you want the major to take you?
It’s a model similar to engineering. You probably have to get a degree in engineering to go with it.
You play the violin in the school symphony orchestra?
I’m the section leader. We had a concert the other night and played in hyper drive to try to get the audience involved. It was so cool. I chose violin in fourth grade because I didn’t want to wait until fifth grade to play a band instrument. I am one of the few lefties to play violin.
What are some of the challenges being left-handed?
I started with the bow in my left hand, but my teacher told me that I had to switch. It took her a few times to get me to use the right hand. I do think I’m better for it because my fingering is better.
What clubs are you involved with?
I am in the Aleks Club for math.
When did you realize that you were good with numbers?
My mother (Tracy Swanson) said when I was in kindergarten that could count to 10 in five languages. I remember four of the five — English, Spanish, German and Japanese. My aunt, Lisa Reaves, speaks Japanese.
What language do you study?
I have taken Spanish since middle school. I took Spanish IV in order to get an international diploma that the school awards. I am going to take seminars next year, which basically is a Capstone project.
Junior year is supposed to be the most difficult. Is that the case for you?
Oh, yes. I took AP English with the seniors, and it was stressful because I was worried about getting a case of senioritis (laughing). I take pre-calculus at Otterbein and Spanish IV, physical education and orchestra here. Next year, I’m going to take calculus at Columbus State and seminar, orchestra and, hopefully, anatomy here. I also want to get five credits in social studies in the virtual classroom.
Are you trying to get a summer job?
Hopefully, I get one. I have applied to Tim Horton’s on Broad Street and Panera in German Village.
What goes on outside of school?
It’s practice or homework. Homework can be difficult because of the computer and television. Those are distractions. I don’t know if anyone my age knows about the show, but I really enjoy “Reba.’’ That show was on a long time ago. It’s so funny. I also watch Disney and Lab Rats. I can’t get my mind off those shows (laughing).
Are you nervous about selecting a college?
Definitely not. My grandfather, Fred Swanson, set up a college fund for me a long time ago. I’m also going to apply for scholarships.
Why are you so interested in Akron?
The dormitories are nice. The staff appears to really care about the students and the class size is 19-to-1. That’s a good ratio. They have a 3-plus-2 program and maybe I can get my bachelor’s degree in three years and my master’s in two years.