SCHOLASTIC SUPERSTARS 2025: Andrea Betz, Tamaqua Area

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Q. What accomplishments are you most proud of and why? A. I am most proud of myself for maintaining a very high academic standing while participating in three varsity sports, band, drama, chorus and a multitude of school clubs. Through all of my pursuits, I have learned to persevere, prioritize and make the most of [...]

Q. What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?A. I am most proud of myself for maintaining a very high academic standing while participating in three varsity sports, band, drama, chorus and a multitude of school clubs.

Through all of my pursuits, I have learned to persevere, prioritize and make the most of every experience.Andrea BetzQ. What were your most rewarding school or community activities?A.



My most rewarding school activity is being a member and seasoned leader of the Raider Band. Our organization spans grades 7th-12th, so I have been able to make friends with students of all different ages. We are known as “The Pride of Tamaqua,” and I immensely enjoy being able to serve as president and leading such an important group in our community.

My favorite community activity is volunteering as a swimming instructor for the Little Waves program. I was on the Blue Waves Swim Team before I joined the varsity team, and I love being able to give back to the team that made me a swimmer.Q.

Do you have any hobbies? What do you do in your spare time?A. I love to read and crochet, as well as baking, exercising, and spending time with my sister.Q.

What are your plans after high school graduation? Why did you choose this path?A. I plan to major in biochemistry and minor in English/literature at Bucknell University. I had particularly spectacular teachers whose love for their disciplines inspired me to pursue these passions.

My high school career has been full of a wide variety of interests, and I am excited to narrow my focus to biochemical research and the written word.Andrea Betz plays soccer for Tamaqua Area High School.Q.

What do you see yourself doing and where do you see yourself living in 15 years?A. In 15 years, I see myself settled down with a family while working at a research job that I love. I hope my work will be making a difference in the world, and I will be thriving in my career.

I will have traveled the world by then, and put down roots somewhere warm and not too far away from my family. I picture myself living around the D.C area where there are lots of outdoor activities and cultural opportunities.

Q. Whom do you most admire and why?A. My sister Rachael.

She is the smartest and most disciplined person I know. She works extremely hard and succeeds in whatever she puts her mind to. Most of all, she is my best friend.

Q. In a sentence, what is your philosophy of life?A. Measure yourself by your own worth; do not spend all your time comparing yourself to others.

Q. Finish this sentence: The most interesting thing about me is ..

.A. .

.. that I play the bassoon.

A Little About Andrea BetzHometown: TamaquaParents: Amy L. Houm MD and Richard E. BetzSome of her honors: Academic Quiz Bowl medalist, 2024 Tamaqua Area Female Scholar Athlete, National Honors Society, Tri-M Music Honors Society, English Honors Society, Science Honors Society, Nu Alpha Theta Member, Foreign Language Award in SpanishSome of her activities: Class of 2024 vice president, Future Business Leaders of America, regional and state competitorSome of her athletics: Soccer, swimming and track; Schuylkill County Youth Soccer AssociationSome of her community service: Various community organizationsHer nominator said: “Andrea is a compassionate leader in the community, dedicating countless hours to making a meaningful impact.

Andrea has shown remarkable resilience and determination. Her character, work ethic, and drive to uplift others make her truly deserving of this nomination.”.