Graduate excels despite obstacles
Elyse Lewan has lived her whole life in Medical Lake, all 17 years of it. Soft-spoken and modest, the teen is among the most notable seniors of her class.
“Probably because I’ve been able to keep up high grades and accelerated classes, over these past couple of years especially, despite the fact that I’ve developed some health issues over the time, and missed a lot of school these past two years,” says Lewan. “But I still kept a 3.8 g.p.a. Thanks to very kind teachers, who have been very helpful to make sure I get what I need to graduate from high school.”
Not only has Lewan maintained high grades, but she also has stayed very involved in extracurricular activities. She’s in the National Honor Society, the Key Club, participated in the Knowledgeable Team (“Jeopardy”-style questions among students), and Cardinal Connection where she mentored freshmen. This year she is also senior class secretary, a position she had to win by addressing her peers.
“When she gave her speech in front of the senior class she blew me away with her charisma,” says counselor Ted Koch. “She was very eloquent. She has a quiet confidence that allows her to be comfortable in front of a lot of people.”
Lewan has high standards for herself. She’s had to complete much of her regular class work at home due to persistent sickness. She’s maintained first chair clarinet despite her frequent absences, although this exertion may have been more enjoyable, as her favorite subject is band.
She was a little surprised when she was nominated, as Lewan says she has many friends who also do very well in school. But her story of overcoming the adversity of chronic illnesses to continue her pursuit of excellence is impressive.
“I guess what it comes down to is her perseverance,” says Koch. “She’s kept her goals in mind and kept working towards them.”
What is the secret to her resolve?
“I would say to never give up,” says Lewan. “To make sure you know who your support system is, because that is important in dealing with things like this in your life. And, to always ask for help when you need it, not to put too much on yourself. Because I’ve done that at times, where I think I can accomplish so much at once, that I just have to take it slower. Otherwise it gets very overwhelming.”
Her family has been a huge help as well. Although one of eight children, Lewan’s parents have taken the time to bring her to her many doctor appointments, and to ensure that she gets everything accomplished in order to graduate.
Saturday is the big day. Then for the summer Lewan will be a junior volunteer at the pediatric center at Sacred Heart Medical Center every Friday. If her health permits, she also may get a summer job.
In the fall Lewan will be attending EWU, where she has received an academic honors scholarship and will pursue a nursing degree. She’ll be part of the Freshmen Honors Program, and if she maintains a 3.7 average then the scholarship can be renewed the following year. She’s excited, although she’ll miss Medical Lake High School.
“It’s a good school. I like it,” says Lewan. “Some of the kids think it’s small, but I’ve always liked this school district. Primarily because of the people, my friends and the teachers here.”
Inside
A list of Medical Lake graduates./6