Sophomore Nathan Parrish has been named Jag of the Month for May. Every month, the Athens Oracle consults with different department chairs to choose a student who stands out and deserves recognition. This month, Michael Seguin, the World Languages department chair, selected Parrish to be recognized.
“I taught Nathan in Spanish II and Spanish III. I think he made a 100 in both of those classes, and Spanish three can be a pretty challenging class. Nathan always knew the right answers. I think that is attributable to his intelligence and his willingness to work hard,” said Seguin.
Parrish’s academic success is only part of what makes him stand out. His dedication extends beyond the classroom and into almost every aspect of school life.
“I am involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, from sports to honors societies. I am part of the men’s JV basketball team, cross country, track teams and involved in multiple clubs. These include Student Council, Key Club, SNHS, and a couple of other smaller clubs,” said Parrish.
This involvement reflects Parrish’s belief in building connections and making the most of his high school experience.
“I think being involved in school and creating communities outside of education is a great way to meet new people, experience new things and learn more about things you love to do. I have worked very hard over the past two years to make the basketball team as an undersized white kid who can barely touch the net, to being awarded rookie of the year on the cross country team for my continued efforts throughout the season,” said Parrish.
Parrish’s dedication and energy he invests in his work are just as notable as his time management skills and work ethic, which he also applies to academics and athletics.
“He is good at managing his time, between being a top student and playing sports on teams at Athens. Nathan was always in a good mood, and he was fun to be around. He had a good sense of humor. I’m glad I got to teach him for a full year,” said Seguin.
Seguin recognizes the amount of time and effort he puts into his work, and being so busy, he does not let it stop his performance.
“When it comes to balancing year-long sports and school work all at the same time, it can be difficult. Being a student athlete means that you have to be a ‘student’ athlete. One-third of the kids on our basketball team this year were kicked off halfway through because they failed more than two classes. Being able to balance classes and outside activities is hard, but you have to be disciplined and put in the work when you need to, just like on the court,” said Parrish.
At the root of his success is his motivation to do better and have fun, accredited by the encouragement and freedom from his family.
“The thing driving me to be successful is my parents, who support me no matter how I perform or what I want to do in life. Being able to have the freedom to try new things helps me to know that I’m the one driving me to do this and not my parents. Giving 100% and doing my best is my parents’ motto. If you aren’t having fun, you aren’t doing something right, but you should do the best of your ability to compete at the highest level,” said Parrish.