Claire Gibson
As soon as a person meets Claire Gibson, they know she is a person who always sees life as a glass that is half full. And even more, one sees how she works to make sure her glass is filled to the brim! This is most evident in her choice and plan for education after high school. An exceptional student, Claire had the opportunity to choose from among the best 4-year programs available across the country. She chose William and Mary and their program which will take her to study at St. Andrew’s University in Scotland for two full academic years. Immersing herself in two new worlds, not just one, in the next four years is her plan.
Every student graduating in 2024 experienced significant developmental disruption during the pandemic. 8th grade had no closure and the first year of high school was substantially remote. For Claire, being home with her family and spending as much time as possible outdoors with them helped steady the highs and lows of daily life. They were all preparing for her older sister to leave for college in the fall, so the extra time together was seen by the family as a blessing.
While experiencing remote learning her first year of high school, Claire was faithful to “camera on!” Claire missed the daily give and take of school life with her peers. Although never a runner herself, Claire was inspired to join Tuscarora’s Track Team as a Freshman and stuck with the program for the next four years. This afterschool activity provided the much-needed balance to the world of virtual learning. Her goal was to be the “glue” of the team, not because of her performance, but because of her presence. As a freshman, the upperclassmen embraced her as an equal, and provided encouragement to her as the team’s rookie. This was unexpected, but it inspired her to greater heights of teamwork and leadership. “Every person’s life is a puzzle and each experience they have and person they meet is a piece of it. Seeing how the pieces fit together is a lifelong, but very worthwhile journey.”
As a member of the Key Club, she rose over the years to lead it as President her Senior year. Claire saw this as an opportunity to help students make meaningful connections with each other and the community. If freshman had fun volunteering, they would get the “bug” and continue to work to support their communities. To do this she took advantage of connecting students with a wide variety of non-profits who sponsor running/walking events to financially support their cause. The founder of Courage Closet, a local non-profit dedicating to supporting the victims of sexual abuse, violence and neglect, Liz Sands came to speak to Key Club members. Claire and her Key Club team members have supported multiple running events to benefit this cause as a result.
Claire also served in leadership roles on the Tuscarora Student Council. The most rewarding part of leading in this activity involved planning and executing the Senior Prom during her Junior year. As a leader she frequently shared wisdom from her family with underclassmen. “Leave the place better than you found it!” In addition, she encourages students to expand your circle to include people who you don’t know. She served the Student Council in both Treasurer and Historian roles.
Love of history began for Claire in 4th Grade where her teacher made history come alive through stories. The interest stuck and continued to be kindled by Mr. Bednarsky who teaches in Tuscarora’s History Department. She completed both AP US History and AP US and Comparative Governments.
Claire is also an “academic athlete” earning distinction in a wide variety of subject areas. When visiting colleges for her older sister as a middle school student, Claire visited William and Mary. She remembers that it felt comfortable, beautiful, and welcoming. Her own visit a few years later to select her own college program sold it. “In addition to my memories, William and Mary is the right size, the right price, and immerses you in history.”
Applying for Early Decision gave her the opportunity to apply for the Joint Degree program with St. Andrews University in Scotland. She will study History and International Relations.
Congratulations Claire! Your future is “full to the brim” with opportunity! You are “setting sail” for a great voyage these next four years where you will no doubt discover many more pieces of the puzzle for your life! Go with the best wishes of Lucketts in your sails!
