Lanie Leach

Writer

Finding the motivation to excel at academics can be difficult for some high school students, but senior Kasen Smith has remained motivated and involved with his education through his high school career.

Smith takes pride in excelling in all school subject areas but especially math because he considers it to be the best subject area.

“You just have to understand how to plug numbers into the correct equations,” Smith explained.  “Also, to excel in math, you have to manage your time and have patience with yourself.”

When asked for his advice for lowerclassmen on how to exceed in school , Smith suggests having good use of your time.

“I have two pieces of advice for the lowerclassmen that will help them succeed,” Smith said. “The first is to not procrastinate because this will just leave you stressed. The second is to do your homework to the best of your ability. Don’t just leave it unfinished.”

These are the skills that Smith has utilized all throughout high school to provide him with such academic success.

Describing Smith’s proficiency in academics is Algebra II teacher Karin Brantley.

“Kasen is an overall great student,” Brantley explained. “He is intelligent, hard-working and very self-motivated.”

Not only does Smith shine in his academics but he also provides a loving hand for others that are in his senior class.

Senior Jaci Strickland appreciates Smith’s support and caring personality while going through their last year of high school.

“Kasen is one of those friends that you want to keep forever. I know I could call him at any given moment and he would be there in a heartbeat,” Strickland said. “He has shown me through high school what a true friend is, and I believe that it is one of the most important things in life.”

Smith hopes to take his passion for academics and people to college. He plans to attend Cameron University to obtain his basics and then transfer to Oklahoma State University or the University of Central Oklahoma to earn a degree in occupational safety.