Nicole Shanks

Living in Houston has helped me to grow academically and artistically in my years of high school. I am encouraged by teachers who strive for students to do well and by my parents who do the same. I am interested in studying communication and digital media at Tulane University in the spring.

I picked up my mom's camera on a family vacation and fell in love. This year, I am president of my school's photography club and an editor of my school's photojournalism program. I have participated in various school and student curated exhibits during my four years.

I have attended Camp Mystic For Girls for about eight years now. My last year, I served as a counselor in training. I assisted the camp by serving food and setting tables for everyone. By my tribe, I was elected Sports Manager. As well, I was chosen twice for the highest level of riding, Quadrille.

I am a member of the National Charity League Heart of Texas chapter and involved in Episcopal's Interact Club. I love to volunteer at the Nehemiah Center through First Presbyterian Church during the year. For two weeks in December, I volunteered at Kipp Dream Prep as an art teacher for six grades.

I believe that travel has enriched my perspective on culture. Learning from art, new friends, and trying unique foods and restaurants has contributed to how I view the world today. I've visited some of my favorite places over the years but hope to discover more during college.

I joined my school's photojournalism class my sophomore year. I love to take pictures of sports, theatre, and special events for the newspaper and yearbook. This year, I am an editor that runs the end of the year dvd showing.

I was selected my junior year to become a member of National Art Honors Society. Within the organization, I have participated in projects such as the Memory Project, Art Junction, and Via Colori. Our aim is to spread the awareness of art through volunteering and active participation around campus.

This past year, I reinstated my school's photography club. It has been an incredible experience to be the club's president along with my good friend from school. Our club aims to create a balance between the academic and arts pillars and to learn and discuss techniques to improve photography skills.