The class of 2024 has turned their tassels and are preparing to head out into the world. Whether they are venturing to college, trade school, the work force or somewhere else, high school is behind them, and their futures await. On May 31, they walked the stage, led by this year’s Valedictorian, Emily Gent.
Emily graciously shared her experiences, offering insights into overcoming struggles, strategies for high school success, motivations, and future goals.
Emily’s academic journey has been marked by significant challenges and notable triumphs. Starting with struggles in reading and writing, Emily’s determination, coupled with the support of her teachers and parents, led her to win multiple awards in elementary school.
“I struggled with reading in my early school years; I attended two different reading classes while other kids only attended one. Eventually, my struggle with reading translated into a struggle with spelling and writing. However, I was determined to become a good reader and writer. With the help of my teachers and parents, I strengthened my language skills, and by the time I left elementary school, I had won two awards for the most words read in the entire school and three different creative writing awards.”
Emily
Her high school years were equally rigorous, balancing honors and AP classes with 68 college credits. One of her most challenging courses was Geology 101 at Great Basin College, where she initially struggled but improved her grades with the help of a tutor, ultimately developing a love for the subject. Teachers like Mrs. Nygaard, who made learning enjoyable, played a pivotal role in her success.
“Mrs. Nygaard (2nd grade teacher at Floyd Elementary) taught me that reading and learning can be fun. Before, I only read if forced to. However, I developed a genuine love of reading, which greatly helped improve my writing skills, vocabulary, and ability to understand complex topics. Many other teachers, like Mrs. Nygaard, have repeatedly taught me that learning is supposed to be fun.”
Emily
Effective study strategies, such as “becoming the teacher” and role-playing, helped Emily master complex subjects. She balanced academics with extracurricular activities, including basketball, golf, and National Honor Society, forming lasting relationships and a sense of belonging.
“One key factor that enabled me to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and my personal life was the unwavering support of my parents and extended family. Their constant presence and care ensured I had the necessary resources and a comforting environment to thrive academically. I am deeply grateful for their support, which was instrumental in my success.”
Emily
Memorable high school moments for Emily include success on the golf course.
“Throughout high school, I found lots of success on the golf course. My team and I were able to get Academic State Champions as well as many other honors. However, the moments I remember best were van rides to tournaments when we laughed, slept, and talked together. Although they might seem normal, they were extremely special. I felt the power of gathering with others in positivity and a spirit of dedication in each one.”
Emily
One of Emily’s accomplishments she is especially proud of is achieving a perfect score on her AP World History test.
“The class was extremely challenging, and my teacher, Mr. Pape, had high expectations for his students. With his constant support and encouragement, after an entire year of diligent studying, I was so relieved and happy to receive not only a passing score but a perfect score.”
Emily
Her family has been her biggest support system, providing the encouragement needed to persevere through difficult times.
“I am so grateful to my parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family. They are the reason I persevered when I felt discouraged and exhausted.”
Emily
Motivated by her faith and the desire to use her gifts to help others, Emily plans to serve an 18-month mission in Auckland, New Zealand.
“I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In my religion, we believe that God has given each one of us unique gifts. With these gifts or talents, we can help love and serve others. Additionally, to enhance our gifts, we have to actively use them. God has given me so much, so I strive for excellence inside and outside the classroom to improve the gifts and blessings God has given me and show my gratitude for them. Although I don’t know what my future holds, I know that the more I improve myself now, the more I can help others.”
Emily
Emily plans to study psychology at Brigham Young University after her mission is complete.
Throughout the rigor of her high school schedule, Emily refused to let doubt get her down.
“Of course, I had moments of doubt and discouragement- everyone does. Setting clear goals for myself really helped. When I felt exhausted, I took time to exercise, do my favorite hobbies, or spend time with friends. Then, when I felt better, I went back to work.”
She advises underclassmen to try new things, set consistent goals, and balance mental and physical health with academic pursuits.
“Consistency is the key to success in every aspect of life. Do your schoolwork consistently, and remember it doesn’t need to be perfect. Set goals and regularly revise them if they aren’t working. Make habits and keep them.”
Emily
One of Emily’s greatest inspirations is her Mother.
“She has always been an example of how to treat others. Repeatedly, she would say, “No act of kindness is ever wasted.” Throughout high school, I tried to treat others as my mother taught- with kindness. By genuinely striving to love those around me, I formed cherished friendships.”
Emily
Emily and her Mother, Kathryn Gent
Emily credits her parents’ counsel with helping her learn how to set a goal and then put herself in a position to achieve that goal, especially when fear was a factor.
“Early in life, I had a fear of heights. Following my parents’ counsel, I set a goal and determined to intentionally place myself in situations where I could face my apprehensions. A few years later, when allowed to enter a public speaking contest, I once again thought of my goal to never let fears dictate my actions and courageously joined. Facing and conquering my fears is one of my foundational life goals.”
Emily
Emily’s long-term goals include obtaining a doctorate in psychology, marrying and forming a loving family and partnership with her husband, and staying engaged with her community, while working to always better herself.
“I continuously strive to better myself socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually. I actively focus and work on these desired self-improvements daily. I will continue community engagement, participating in community service activities whenever possible. However, my chief goal is always to grow closer to God and live my religion better daily.”
Emily
Reflecting on her high school experience, she will miss the camaraderie of high school sports and the support of the Pahrump community, which has played a significant role in her success.
“I am so grateful to have been raised in Pahrump and surrounded by amazing people. Through my high school years, I’ve grown to love community clubs such as the Rotary, Lions, and Toastmasters clubs. I’ve experienced the generosity of individuals unaffiliated with clubs or organizations providing free school equipment or golf clubs. So many organizations aided in my pursuit of higher education through scholarships. Our community is fantastic, and I am so grateful for all actively striving to serve and love the individuals who live in Pahrump.”
