‘A natural learner’
Four years ago, Lake City High School senior Sarah Daanen saw people crewing (team rowing) on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Intrigued by the sport, she took the time to find out more. That interest led her to join the local rowing club and has earned Daanen a scholarship to Clemson University in South Carolina.
Rowing is a year-round sport. In North Idaho, the team practices on the water from April to October. During the winter months, it trains on land using rowing machines, free weights and running.
Daanen primarily competes in regattas (boat races) in Seattle and Nelson, B.C. Competitions usually are staged in spring and fall.
“I thought it was amazing for Clemson University to recognize her athletic ability in crewing,” said Andrea Beebe, counselor at Lake City High.
Daanen intends to major in biology and later pursue medicine. She’d like to specialize in dermatology.
“I chose dermatology, because I’m not really interested in all the blood, and I like the cosmetic aspects,” Daanen said.
Described by Beebe as “a natural learner,” Daanen has maintained a grade-point average of 3.9 or better. Her classes include biology, anatomy and art history, an advanced placement honors course.
“I like to know how things work,” Daanen said.
In July, Daanen will receive notification regarding the college credit for her art history class. She has taken art all through high school and took private lessons when younger.
In her senior year, Daanen has been involved in the environmental club, which plans ways to improve the environment, such as planting trees and improving water quality. She participated in Spanish Club and Calculus Club, and she had a special affinity for Art Club, which allowed her to exhibit her works with other students.
Daanen’s parents are Mark and Irene Daanen, and she has two older brothers. At least three other universities have offered her scholarships.
Working hard her senior year brought Daanen a great deal of success, but there are tradeoffs. She cautions other students, “Don’t burn out toward the end.”