January 2024 Kiwanis Humanitarian Student of the Month is Marissa Gerleman. Gerleman is the senior daughter of Andrea and Cory and has successfully maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her high school career.
When prompted to speak about her favorite high school courses, Gerleman listed HBS as a top pick. She said that she has a lot of interest in the medical field and this course has provided her with the tools to further that interest. She also listed Chemistry as a favorite saying that it has given her a head start on her college degree. Lastly, she mentioned Culinary as a fun class because it was new to her and offered her a good skill to learn. Looking into her future academics, Gerleman plans to attend Blue Mountain Christan University and major in biology. She also plans to further her athletic career in college by playing volleyball.
Throughout high school, Gerleman has been involved in various activities and sports teams including volleyball, soccer, FCA and Student Council. Gerleman talks highly about all of these activities saying, “These have all taught me how to build strong relationships, and made me step into leadership roles.” Gerleman also notes how these activities have helped her work as a team or group to accomplish goals and achieve success. Additionally, Gerleman has volunteered for her church, Meadowview, Meals for the Heartland, several youth activities and YMCA swim meets throughout her 4 years at ADM.
Gerleman states that being honored with this recognition makes her feel as though her actions and activities within ADM have helped her grow into a role model for younger students and hopes that she can help guide them through their high school careers. She also feels as though she has been honored due to all of the hard work she has done to get her to this point.
Lastly, Gerleman leaves advice to younger students. “Pursue things you love to do and try new things in high school because it provides so many opportunities,” she shares.
In recognition of her achievements, Kiwanis Humanitarian SOM has donated $50 to the ADM Scholarship Foundation.
