In High School, to some, a busy schedule may seem too much to handle. However, to Ford Kearney, a junior at Pennridge High School, it is an exciting challenge of endless possibilities. On the school’s swim team, his strokes cut through the water like the gills and fins of a fish, each lap a reminder not of how far he has yet to go but instead of how far he has gone. Throughout the swim team, Ford has bonded with his teammates, and they all work together to uplift each other through friendly competition. Perhaps one of Ford’s best memories of swim was when he came in second in the 500-yard freestyle freshman year. His achievement was only the beginning because Ford’s constant victory is “The triumph of actually racing and seeing that you have improved as a result of your practice,” he says.
Ford’s scope of challenges goes far beyond the pool because he is also an outstanding student. Currently, this year, he is enrolled in multiple AP classes such as calculus, world history and English language and composition simultaneously. The good feelings of getting an A on a hard test and keeping an excellent GPA are also priorities Ford has for himself, and it definitely is not simple, but Ford does not take the easy way out. “I hope to continue to do well in and be challenged by my classes,” Ford stated.
In addition to the swim team and student integrity, Ford is involved in many extracurricular activities. In mock trial club, you will see Ford taking on the role of an attorney, where he practices cross-examination skills and learns about possible career paths in law. Model UN is another area of interest for Ford, as he improves his debate, collaboration and compromise skills as if he were really a part of the United Nations. Ford is very passionate about speaking for what he believes is right. From this, he has been a well-known debate club member since freshman year. This year, with his team, he advocated against pesticides in food. While his team may not have won, to Ford, it is letting his heart speak that matters the most.
Ford has also been an avid member of theatre, and this year, he played the role of Captain Scott in Peter and the Starcatcher. Lastly, on this impressive list, Ford is a member of NHS, where he dedicates his time to helping others in need. Getting involved is Ford’s motto, and he is more than just a student or athlete. He is a great friend, an inspiration, and a perfect example of making the most out of any situation. Ford does not wait for change, he works towards it, whether that be at swim, debate, or anywhere he is present. Pennridge High School and the student body are fortunate to have Ford as a member of the community.
