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5Q: Luke Akridge (Class of 2008)

January 17, 2013 | 5Q, Alumni, News | No Comments

[fblike]By: Academy Staff
Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
In one word, unique. The Academy became my home, and I grew closer to my Academy peers than I had to any others throughout my school career. And still, 5 years later, many of those close “Academy” friendships exist today. I also enjoyed the many opportunities afforded to me by the Academy such as my research with Rachel Bowman (fellow Academy student) and Drs. Bruce Kessler and Peter Hamburger. My research allowed me to travel to Canada to present at an international conference. But honestly without the supporting nature of other students and the staff (both Academy and WKU), my Academy experience wouldn’t have been the same.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
The Academy has made me who I am, for better or worse. Sometimes, I try to imagine my life had I not applied for the Academy. If my Pre-Calculus teacher never held onto an article about the Academy and given it to me the day I came back to school from being sick, my life would be drastically different. But other than that single moment, and the acknowledgement that things wouldn’t have been the same from then on, I can’t imagine what my life “might have” been like today.
Because I went to the Academy, I made friends that I cared for deeply and started on my college carrier a year earlier than I would have otherwise. Because I formed those relationships and gained the college experience I did, I stayed at WKU to finish out my degree. Because I got so much out of the Academy, I decided to give back a little and tutor new Academy students in Computer Science. Because I stuck around the Academy a few more years, I made more friends and my relationships with my professors and existing friendships grew stronger.
Today, I now work at WKU as an IT Consultant for Academic Technology, helping support and maintain many of the campus’s open and departmental lab computers, as well as the computers in classrooms around WKU. But it was all due to a series of events that Academy set in motion.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
What have I been up to? Life.
Since the Academy I have graduated with my Bachelor’s in Computer Science (minoring in Mathematics). I have cultivated a love for American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture and have even joined WKU’s American Sign Language Organization (ASLO), where I use my computer talents to help promote the growing American Sign Language Studies (ASLS) program and the ASLO organization itself. I have obtained a full-time position at WKU as an IT Consultant for Academic Technology, helping support and maintain many of the campus’s open and departmental lab computers, as well as the computers in classrooms around WKU.
On a personal note, I have bought my first house (I am struggling to pick out paint colors).

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
In the next ten years? I have no clue. If you asked me that question ten years ago, I would never have imagined my life as it is today. Hopefully, in the future, I’ll still be doing something I enjoy – probably combining my love of technology and ASL as I am today. Maybe, I’ll be a little wiser and more settled into this new life that I’m starting – and maybe I’ll even be sharing it with someone.

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton Academy?
The Yellow Couch? The J-Term ski trip? The crazy adventures my friends and I had around campus? The Ultimate Frisbee games in the Colonnades? It’s hard to pick. In general, I enjoy the memory I have of the Academy as a whole. But I’d have to say the most satisfying memory I have was changing non-Academy students’ perspectives on who we were and what we were like.
Some people saw us as a bunch of “privileged,” “immature,” high school kids, but in reality, we were just like everyone else (mostly). In fact, I remember enjoying the astonishment on non-Academy students’ faces when they would ask which dorm I lived in and I would mention Florence Schneider Hall. It was my personal goal then, and now, to change their views about who we were/are really like.

We would like to thank Mr. Luke Akridge for taking time out of his busy schedule to be interviewed. Next week, the Gatton Academy will be spotlighting Ms. Sammi Hawtry who is currently pursuing a double major in chemistry and biology at Western Kentucky University.

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Kali mera (Good morning) from the Egnatia Road in Greece!

January 11, 2013 | Uncategorized | No Comments

By: Chiraag Kapadia

[fblike]The Gatton Academy Greek experience has reached the midway point. While we are looking forward to the trips planned for the upcoming days, we wanted to take a few minutes to reflect on our travel so far.

The group departed from the Nashville airport for Greece on January 4th stopping in Detroit and Amsterdam for some VERY long layovers. Bedraggled and jet-lagged, we finally arrived in Athens, Greece. After some much needed beauty sleep, we kicked off the trip with a scenic drive across Greece where we had the chance to see breathtaking snowcapped mountains and bubbling hot springs.

During our scenic drives, we have seen some unique aspects of Greek culture. For example, during a brief visit to hot springs at Thermopylae, the group had the privilege of witnessing a Greek man in a robe chopping at a tree for wood. Who knew that there were Greek Lumberjacks?

Another marvel was seeing a “dinosaur”. Yes, a dinosaur. Atop the mountains of Meteora, a lone figure was spotted carrying a life-size realistic velociraptor. Whether the Greek fellow was having a pleasant picnic with his extinct companion or filming Jurassic Park IV, we may never know.

Of course, these amusing anecdotes were not the true highlights of the trip. Thus far, we have visited mountain-top monasteries, Byzantine ruins, and archeological sites. All of these visits have been nothing short of amazing. We can’t wait to reach Delphi later today and see what new adventures may come our way. But for now, I shall enjoy this pleasant bus ride and take pictures of the beautiful Greek country. We are approaching Mt. Olympus now. Until next time, Yasas!!

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Alumni 5Q: Kaitlin Hartley

January 10, 2013 | 5Q, Alumni, News | No Comments

[fblike]Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
Being among the first group of students to enter the Gatton Academy, I felt extremely grateful for the opportunity. The Gatton Academy allowed me to grow both intellectually and personally putting me on a path of success as I furthered my education. I am so pleased with my decision to attend the Gatton Academy! It was challenging, but definitely worth it.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
As an Academy student, there were a number of opportunities that presented themselves that would not have been possible otherwise. My first international experience was the J-term trip to Italy in 2008. This opportunity sparked my passion for international education and since then I have studied abroad four times and visited over thirty countries. Due to these experiences and others that I had in the Academy, my professional goal is to work at a university encouraging students to engage in activities outside of classroom and around the world.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
After graduating from the Academy, I continued pursuing my bachelor’s degree in biology at WKU and graduated in December 2011. Currently, I am attending The University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) where I am getting my master’s degree in higher education administration and working as a graduate assistant in student affairs.

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
In one year, I will complete my master’s degree and will hopefully enter my career as a coordinator of international programs or study abroad at a university. If the opportunity presents itself, I might consider obtaining my doctorate. As I get settled into a career, I am not sure where it will take me, but I am excited to see. Throughout it all, it is my hope that I can help students learn and encounter new experiences during college, as many faculty and staff at the Academy and WKU inspired me to do. My aspirations to continue traveling never cease, I would love to have the chance to visit Australia and Antarctica, the two continents I have yet to explore!

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton Academy?
I will never forget the feeling I had during my first twenty-four hours in the Academy. From moving in and meeting my peers to attending the ceremony where Dr. Julia Roberts and Mr. Gatton shared words of encouragement, I felt so humbled to call myself a student in this fantastic program!

We would like to thank Ms. Kaitlin Hartley for taking time out of her busy schedule to be interviewed. Next week, the Gatton Academy will be spotlighting Luke Akridge who currently works as an IT consultant at Western Kentucky University.

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Gatton Academy Team Named National Champions (Division I) in Knowledge Masters Open Competition

December 12, 2012 | Academics, News, Students | No Comments

A team of juniors and seniors from the Gatton Academy was named National Champions in the Knowledge Master Open for Division I (enrollment under two hundred) High Schools.

Thousands of students throughout the country and in many foreign countries competed on December 5 in the 59th Knowledge Master Open academic competition. During the competition, high school teams competed via computers to answer two hundred questions from a variety of subject areas ranging from American history to biology to the fine arts.

The Gatton Academy team was comprised of Noah Dixon, Ben Koehler, Vishnuteja Tirumala, Natasha Richardson, Grace Babbs, Nitin Krishna, Ajit Deshpande, Austin Smith, Joseph Crafton, and Nathaniel Clause and answered one hundred and eighty-five questions correctly out of the two hundred. In addition to the team being named National Champion amongst Division I schools, the Gatton Academy placed third in the state of Kentucky.

Chad Phillips, assistant director for admissions and public relations, stated that Gatton Academy students excel in a variety of academic areas in addition to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

“Since the Gatton Academy emphasizes mathematics and science, many individuals are surprised to learn that our students are equally strong in other academic areas such as the economics and geography,” Phillips said. “While our students intend to pursue advanced careers that require substantial study in mathematics and science, we are pleased to know that our students are becoming well rounded problem solvers that can handle the challenges of a 21st century economy.”

The Knowledge Master Open was designed to stimulate enthusiasm for learning and recognition for academic accomplishment. The contest runs on classroom computers to all students the opportunity to compete in a large academic event without the expense of traveling to a central site. Results of the contest are tabulated into overall, state, and enrollment-size rankings by Academic Hallmarks, a Colorado publishing firm that hosts the event.

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Gatton Students Participate in KYA and Return Home with the New Governor-Elect

December 6, 2012 | Uncategorized | No Comments

[fblike] Issac Kresse

On November 29, a delegation of five Gatton students headed to Louisville to participate in the Kentucky Youth Assembly Conference (KYA). KYA is a mock government conference where students from across Kentucky develop and debate legislation learning firsthand the legislative process. Issac Kresse, Leah Cannady, Lexi Sunnenberg, and Samantha Dinga served as bill authors at the conference. Their bill proposed extending Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs) and Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) to couples in an abusive relationship that are not married and do not have a child together. The bill successful passed the Senate Committee. However, the bill was ultimately defeated by a small margin in the Senate.

While the majority of the Academy delegation participated in the legislative program, Naomi Kellogg was busy running for the office of Governor. Naomi focused her campaign around the idea of “Think Big” and how youth can create positive change in their local community. Naomi’s hard work paid off as she became the first Governor to be elected from the Gatton Academy. Two other Academy delegates received individual awards at the Conference. Lexi Sunnenberg was named outstanding delegate, while Samantha Dinga received the Outstanding Speaker Award.

The Kentucky YMCA Youth Association develops engaged citizens and servant leaders, inspired to affect change in their school, community, Commonwealth, nation, and world. Through experiential learning, service, and community activism, the Kentucky YMCA Youth Association fosters critical thinking, leadership, and social responsibility in teens. http://kyymca.org/

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Alumni 5Q: Joseph Groom

November 27, 2012 | 5Q, Alumni, News | No Comments

[fblike]Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
I was a member of the first class to graduate from the Academy in 2008. I’m sure that things were a lot different when I was enrolled, but I personally had a great time being a “guinea pig”. I struggled through Computational Problem Solving but enjoyed my Biology and Chemistry classes. The research I was able to do with Dr. Jacobshagen prepared me for later research projects and internships. I made a number of great friends that year with whom I still keep in regular contact—in fact, I went on a road trip with four of them just this summer.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
Attending the Academy prepared me to succeed in college and graduate school, but it also did wonders for my social development. Living 24/7 with three people in my suite, twenty on my hall and one hundred and twenty in the whole building was an intensive course in human behavior and sociology. I learned how to treat people well and to rationalize issues rather than blowing up about them. Sometimes I learned these things the hard way, but I’m glad I learned them. On another note, I learned very quickly that all-nighters are not the way to do well on tests or to learn material.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
I majored in Molecular Biology and German at Vanderbilt University studying abroad in Germany my junior year. Now I’m in my first semester of a Ph.D. program in Genetics at the University of Georgia. Recently, I submitted a National Science Foundation grant for a project on plant biomass breakdown by thermophilic bacteria, a process which has applications for the development of plants as a bioenergy source.

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
I hope to receive a Ph.D. in about 5 years and to continue doing research in a bioenergy-focused laboratory. Eventually I want to lead a research team either at a university or a research institute.

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton Academy?
The “Pop, Lock & Drop It” song was pretty popular at the time, and I distinctly remember participating in a few lobby dance parties at night before curfew. Also, lunches and dinners with friends at Garrett and DUC were always a lot of fun.

We would like to thank Joseph for taking time out of his busy semester to be interviewed.
If you are alumni or know of an alumni that would make a great spotlight please contact Chad Phillips, Asst. Director of Admissions and External Relations, at chad.phillips@wku.edu. We look forward to spotlighting even more alumni in the Spring term.

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Gatton Academy Alumni Survey

November 26, 2012 | Alumni | No Comments

Every semester, the Gatton Academy updates its Alumni files. If you are an academy alumni, please take the time to fill out the form below. The information collected from this survey helps the Gatton Academy stay connected with its alumni.

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Alumni 5Q: Michael Phillips

November 13, 2012 | 5Q, Alumni | No Comments

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Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
The Academy was a life changing experience that allowed me to grow both academically and professionally. Specifically, living with passionate and scientifically minded peers allowed me to develop a new appreciation for science and mathematics. Attending the Gatton Academy was a once in a life time opportunity. It helped me shape and define my future career as a scientist.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
While at the Gatton Academy I learned skills that I will utilize throughout my life. I learned to write code, integrate and differentiate functions, work in a lab, create deadlines, manage resources, present my work at scientific conferences, and more importantly ask for help. I use these skills everyday as an aspiring physicist.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
Currently, I am attending Auburn University pursuing a dual degree in Wireless Engineering and Physics. Along with my formal academic studies, I have been working on a research team that is investigating highly energized lithium plasma. Finally, I have become quite active in the Society of Physics Students at Auburn University.

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
In the next few years, I will be graduating from Auburn University. After I complete my undergraduate studies, I plan on earning doctorate in physics. Eventually, I hope to become a professor/researcher at a university.

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton Academy?
I do not have a single favorite memory from the Gatton Academy. While attending the Academy, I developed new “favorite” memories almost every day. Nevertheless, here are a few of my “most favorite” memories: cooking bacon in every microwave on my wing, winning the scavenger hunt every year, generating random graphs in the lobby, and having my next-semester courses approved by April Gaskey.

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Alumni 5Q: Celia Whelan

October 26, 2012 | 5Q, Alumni | No Comments

[fblike]
Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
My experience at Gatton was phenomenal and life-changing. I was surrounded by other students who were academically focused. Attending a school with like-minded peers allowed me to excel because we all pushed each other to become better students. Simply, my time at Gatton made me much more self-motivated and dedicated student.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
Gatton opened up so many doors for me. I am only 19 and already I’ve been a co-author on a paper published in a scientific journal, participated in a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (NSF-REU), and presented my research at national meetings. Being at the Gatton Academy introduced me to the worlds of chemistry and research, and for that I am grateful.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
After Gatton, I decided to stay at Western Kentucky to continue my studies. I am majoring in chemistry with minors in both math and music and I’ve been very involved in research. Here at WKU, my research focuses on eliminating the toxicity of the anticancer drug cisplatin and making the drug more effective. To broaden my horizons, this past summer I attended a NSF-REU at Western Washington University where I conducted research on the synthesis of flexible conducting polymer films for use as artificial muscles and brain stimulators. Finally, I have been really involved in chemistry tutoring which has been instrumental in helping me discover my passion for teaching.

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
In the next ten years, I hope to have my Ph. D. in chemistry and be teaching at the collegiate level. I also hope to be working on the frontier of biomedical research.

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton?
One of my absolute favorite memories from Gatton would have to be the game of “Ultimate Mud Frisbee.” It had just finished raining, so obviously we all thought it would be a great idea to play a game of ultimate frisbee in the mud!

We would like to thank Celia for taking time out of her schedule to be interviewed.

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Alumni 5Q: Sam Crocker

October 19, 2012 | 5Q, Alumni, News | No Comments

[fblike] Can you describe your experience at the Gatton Academy?
I had the good fortune to attend the Gatton Academy at a time when the culture of the Academy was in its infancy. As such, my class and the class above us were able to explore just what was possible at the Academy. We were the first students to acquire research positions, and also had the opportunity to join clubs and social organizations on campus. These opportunities allowed us to establish the Gatton Academy as a visible presence on Western Kentucky University’s campus.

How have your experiences at the Gatton Academy helped you in your adult life?
My experience at Gatton was extremely beneficial. I had an incredible opportunity to get a head start on my undergraduate education, as well as a chance to develop and mature as a person. The skills I developed there have allowed me to succeed in both my education and social life in college.

Since the Academy, what have you been up to?
Currently, I am a biochemistry major at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. I’ve worked for two years as a researcher in the biochemistry department with a focus on oxidative damage in liver mitochondria. This fall my research was published in Toxicology Letters. I also had the opportunity to present at the spring meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) this past March. I am currently in the process of applying to medical school.

What do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?
I hope to have completed medical school and be working on my residency.

What was your favorite memory from your time at the Gatton Academy?
I actually have two. When I was a first year, I joined with several of my fellow 4th floor hall-mates and took the Ping-Pong table into our wing common room after curfew. I procrastinated on a biology lab assignment so that I could participate in our late-night tournament. My other favorite memory is from senior year. The week before spring finals, a group of Academy students and myself dressed as superheroes and went to the “Free Comic Book Day” event at a local comic book store. It was only when we arrived that we realized we were the only ones in costume…Good times.

We would like to thank Mr. Sam Crocker for taking time out of his schedule to be interviewed. Next week we will be spotlighting Ms. Celia Whelan.

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