Samantha Flower

I was born in Tongling, China. I was adopted by my parents when I was 8 1/2 months old and came to the US. I live in Colorado and attend St. Mary's Academy, an all girls high school. I have two half-brothers, two dogs and two fish. I love being in the outdoors, especially on horseback!

Playing the piano is something that I love to do. It makes me feel talented and creative. Playing the piano allows me to express emotion, whether it is practicing or performing. I love how a piano piece can bring out in me so much creativity and emotion.

Summer camp defined my summers. I spent 9 summers in the shadow of Pikes Peak at Sanborn Western Camp's High Trials Ranch for Girls located in Florissant, Colorado. I grew from a Junior Camper my first year to a Junior Counselor my last year. I hope to return as a part of the summer camp staff.

I participated in a Teen Leadership Excursion where we visited 7 different camps in the Pacific Northwest. We met with camp directors and their staff and discussed the latest camping and child development techniques.

In June 2015, I traveled with other St. Mary's girls to France. We spent time learning about the French culture in Paris, Avignon, and Carcassonne. I stayed with a local family for one week and worked on community service projects. We also visited many historical and popular landmarks in France.

I was a member of the first St. Mary's group to travel to Peru through the World Leadership School. Staying in Ollantaytambo, we performed community service work, remodeling a pre-school and working with young students. We also had time to learn about the culture and enjoy the beauty of Peru.

I spent four years as a competitive USAG gymnast. Unlike most gymnasts, my favorite event was the balance beam, with several wins. I moved on to field hockey, competing for the Middle School and High School teams at St. Mary's Academy. Currently I serve as an assistant team coach for a USAG team.

I have enjoyed the opportunity to participate in music programs at St. Mary's. I am in the high school honors choir (4 years). I have also enjoyed feature roles in high school and all academy musical productions, including Annie, Snoopy - the Musical, Peter Pan and Junie B. Jones - the Musical.

I love giving back to my community. I have lead horses during equine therapy sessions, built fences and worked on other service projects at various summer camps, cleared pastures in Rocky Mountain National Park, helped with the Special Olympics and worked on a castle restoration project in France.