By Derrick Smith

The high school years of a student’s life are some of the most critical. Not only are they preparing for graduation, but they are also faced with making a decision on what they will do for the rest of their life. Amanda Schoonmaker is a student at Canton High School but she also takes classes at Northwest Technology Center in Fairview to help get her ready for the future. 

“I am in the Digital Design program,” she said. “It is helping me understand what I will run into after college and how I can go about finding and pursuing my job. I chose this program because it had awesome vibes when I visited on the tour and it just seemed fitting for me. “

Amanda first heard about Northwest Tech on a visit she took with her school a few years ago. She has loved her time there and would recommend it to anyone.

“I went on a tour of Tech when I was a sophomore,” she stated. “I met the teacher and just felt really comfortable in the Digital Design program. If someone is considering attending Tech but cannot decide, I would tell them it’s definitely a very good thing to consider and they’d love it no matter what program they pick.”

A junior at Canton, Schoonmaker is a member of the Lady Tigers basketball team. She enjoys playing basketball, but Amanda also enjoys camaraderie with her teammates. 

“I enjoy being with my teammates,” she stated. “I also enjoy being competitive with them and playing alongside them.”

Schoonmaker says that she has had many people that have made a positive impact on her life, but there is one person that has made the biggest difference in her life.

“My coach has been my biggest influence,” she said. “He pushes me to do my best every day, no matter what I am doing.”

Along with competing in basketball, Amanda is also a member of the Future Farmers of America and is a manager for the football team.