Pryor High School is proud to announce that senior Ryleigh Hill has been named an Academic All-State Scholar. This prestigious honor is "bestowed to only 100 outstanding public high school seniors annually in recognition of academic achievement, leadership, and community service," according to the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence.
Hill said she was overjoyed when she received the news. "I was so excited and was able to have the moment with my family!" She credits her mother as her most significant mentor, always supporting her activities and leading by example. Her mother’s dedication to "following her dreams and never backing down from challenges" inspired Hill to strive for more.
When reflecting on her academic achievements, Hill emphasized that discipline has been the most important factor in her success. "Without staying disciplined in my academics, I never would have been able to achieve such an honor," Hill said. "The journey here has not been the smoothest, but that’s what makes life exciting! If everything was easy, things would be so boring!"
However, Hill has also learned the importance of balance. "I used to make school my only concern, but I quickly learned that academics alone cannot help me become a better person, better friend, or better leader. I now always make sure to leave room for my extracurriculars and interests, and I make my well-being my prime concern!"
Receiving the Academic All-State honor has empowered Hill and given her confidence to pursue her higher education goals. She plans to complete an undergraduate program followed by medical school. "I’ll either be majoring in Neuroscience or double majoring in Biology and Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience. I hope to become a Neurologist in the future and contribute to research concerning Alzheimer’s Disease!" Hill said.
Hill expressed her gratitude for the consistent support and opportunities she has experienced at school and in the broader community. "I want to thank God for this opportunity, along with my family, teachers, and good friends!"
Her advice to younger students with academic aspirations is to "Stay strong in your beliefs and don’t back down when challenges arise."
Congratulations to Ryleigh Hill on this outstanding achievement!