Ben Menard started attending JRHS for his Junior year of high school. He was a great addition to the class and quickly became involved in all aspects of our school community.
The project that stands out as Ben’s favorite is the Choir Program. Ben adds, “In the midst of long nights and homework-filled days, choir practices offered relief and an opportunity to build relationships and camaraderie. The memories I made during Choir made the Christmas season very special and I won’t soon forget them. From a musical standpoint, Choir helped with my projection as singing and my confidence. However, it has also assisted me in my ability to orate and make presentations.”
One of Ben’s fondest memories is the Mission Trip to Philadelphia. He said, “It was incredible to see each person embrace a task and make it their own. Thinking back to the block party and work on the farm, I loved working with people and having a good time while doing it.” He also appreciated the time spent outside of the classroom with his peers, as it allowed them to get to know each other while working toward a common purpose.
The teacher that had the most impact on him is Mrs. Karen Trudeau. “Before Junior year, I hadn’t really had much success in the subjects of math and science. However, Mrs. Trudeau taught these subjects in an engaging and understandable way. She kept her classes interesting and would always relate them back to real life. More than just her teaching methods, though, she continually showed concern and care for the wellbeing of me as a student and for that, I am very grateful.”
Ben plans to attend Houghton College in the fall and will Major in History/Pre-Law. He’s really excited about the opportunity to play Lacrosse and to be part of the Houghton Men’s Choir. Looking past college, Ben intends to pursue a career as a lawyer specifically in the area of Criminal Law. Ben shared, “I have wanted to be a lawyer since I was a kid so I’m excited that my goal is now in sight, even if it is still 7+ years away.”
When asked what his life verse is, Ben answered, “A verse that I find encouraging is Deuteronomy 31. This chapter of scripture is the commissioning of Joshua to rise up and lead Israel. Moses knows the immense responsibility that has been placed on Joshua, and he encourages him by saying, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” While I am not preparing to lead a nation into the promised land, the truth of God’s love and omnipresence remains true and it should be an encouragement to us all.”
Ben would like to share with the underclassmen this word of encouragement, “Be thankful for the time you have and try to enjoy as best you can. And when you look back over your high school years, you will know you spent your time on the right things, based on how much you miss them when they are gone.”
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