By Derrick Smith

As a high school student, Erica Coday is already planning for what she will do after she graduates. While she may not be certain exactly what she wants to do, she knows that she is getting a headstart by attending Northwest Technology Center.

“I am in the Computer and Business program at the Alva campus,” she said. “I want to go into an automotive or a mathematical field. I’m not one hundred percent sure what I want to do but I know it is something related to that. Even if I end up not going into a computer related field, in this day and age it is good to know how to use a computer the correct way and efficiently. I feel like Tech is preparing me for my future, no matter what I end up doing.”

Coday is a junior at Alva High School. While she is a member of the school’s soccer team, her other sport is one that not many are brave enough to attempt. She is a member of the Oklahoma Cross Country Racing Association, which is a group of motocross athletes. 

“We race all over Oklahoma but it is mostly around Oklahoma City,” she said. “Everyone and anyone can race, no matter your age or skill level. There are about twelve races each year and if you make it to all you get a prize at the end, which could be an even bigger prize if you won most of the races. We are a religious organization and every Sunday we have a prayer and church sermon before any racing begins.”

Though she has a lot of support, Coday says that there is one person that has been influential in her life. 

“My dad is my role model because he has helped me through everything and taught me how to ride a dirt bike,” she recalled. “He has pushed me to be my best and I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am today without him.”