Alexis Szemplinski

Alexis Szemplinski – New York
Nomination & Photography by Sandy Szemplinski
Issue 68 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​Nomination: Alexis Szemplinski embodies the word inspiration. As Class President five consecutive years, she promotes kindness, anti-bullying, problem solving and a shoulder for anyone in need. A member of countless committees, charitable activities and Special Olympics/Unified Sports. A cheerleader herself, she formed a cheer squad for special needs students to create opportunities for inclusion. She is adored by her administrators and peers. A born leader who uses her platform to do good. An inspiration to all who are lucky enough to know her.

Photography by Sandy Szemplinski

What about being your class president for five years in a row has been so rewarding for you?
Since middle school I've served in an elected position within Student Council; first Vice President in the 7th grade then President in the 8th grade. I've continued serving in the role of Class President ever since. I will be entering my senior year in the fall and serving my fifth consecutive year in this role. It is very rewarding to me that my administrators and peers recognize my leadership and trust me to serve in this role. I am honored to represent my school and take this responsibility very seriously.

What is your proudest accomplishment as president?
Although there have been many proud moments in my role as Class President, I believe my proudest moment has yet to come and will be addressing my senior class at our graduation ceremony. As an honors English student I enjoy writing and consider this to be one of my greatest strengths. I look forward to preparing and delivering my speech to the Class of 2024.

Tell us about a couple of your favorite committees you are on and what you do in each.
Having been an active participant of Peer Leadership, No Place for Hate and Students against Drunk Driving, I participate in meetings, fundraising, and activities outside of school to help benefit these committees.

What service project has meant the most to you and why?
My favorite service project is participating in the St. Anne's preschool gift exchange every year alongside my cheerleading team. I enjoy shopping for gifts to give to the children. The happiness this brings to them makes this by far my favorite.

Photography by Sandy Szemplinski

​What do you do for the Special Olympics/Unified sports and why do you love being involved?
I run the Unified Cheer Program. My role as cheer coach is to provide an all inclusive, fun and rewarding experience to all participants. We practice alongside the basketball team. During practice I teach cheers and sidelines to be performed during the Unified basketball games. I love everything about this program. I love the joy I see that it brings to all those who participate, both on and off the basketball court. It is by far the most rewarding experience I've ever been a part of. This is my third year participating.

Tell us about your cheer squad for special needs students. How did you get it started, what was the hardest part about putting it together and what has been your favorite moment so far?
When I first joined the Unified Program as a helper on the basketball team, I thoroughly enjoyed working with all the athletes. Having never played basketball myself, at first I didn't think I'd be much of a contribution to the team, however, I quickly learned that it is more about the encouragement and support I was bringing to the team then my ability on the court. I recognized a need for a cheer team and put a plan in place to make it happen. I pitched my idea to the coaches and school administrators and the following year a cheer team was created. The hardest part was getting the program started, but now in its second year, it continues to be a welcomed addition to Unified Sports. My favorite moment so far has been the bond that I've formed with so many of the athletes. Being a part of this incredible program has made me consider a possible career in Special Education.

What is your leadership style?
My leadership style is to lead by example. If I have a platform then I am going to use it to be a positive influence and role model.

What is your best leadership quality?
My best leadership quality is that I am a good problem solver and listener. Everyone who knows me knows that I am someone they can count on to help them in any way.

What do you have planned for your summer before senior year?
I will be attending an NCA Cheer Camp over the summer as well as camping and taking small trips with family and friends.

Where is your favorite place to travel and why?
I love traveling to the Caribbean. I was fortunate enough to have spent the last two summers taking trips with my mom. We went to Aruba and Turks and Caicos. Our time together was so peaceful and relaxing. I thoroughly enjoyed both places and would love the opportunity to go back someday.

Photography by Sandy Szemplinski

​What is a favorite family tradition you hope never ends?
My favorite family tradition is our Thanksgiving meal. It is quality time spent with family. I am grateful for my grandparents and cherish my time with them listening to the stories they tell about growing up.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover? 
I pride myself on being a kind, compassionate and caring person who sees the good in everyone. Chosen recipient of numerous leadership and citizenship awards, it is helping others that fulfills me the most. I believe the most inspiring thing about me is the pure joy I give to everyone. Viewed not only as a leader, but also someone trustworthy. My biggest accomplishment will always be helping others, and if I can say I've managed to help even just one person in need, then I've been successful.



What else would you like to talk about?
I'd like to talk about how I did not have to be the classic "mean girl" in high school to get to my achieved status. Becoming Class President, I have noticed I was not followed because of intimidation, but rather admiration. I am viewed as a fair, kind, and personable leader that all can talk to. I take pride in this as I know many cannot say the same. Being a nice person will truly bring the best for yourself and those around you.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I feel passionate about being kind to all and never judging anyone. I am a strong believer that you never know what one is going through. I see the negative effect bullying has on so many individuals in my school simply because of one harsh or crude comment. Imagine what multiple comments do to one's mental health and self-esteem. By promoting kindness for all, we as a community can help to minimize negative behavior. Simply put, one less comment could potentially save someone's life.


How did you find your photographer? 
My photographer is actually my mom! I find so much joy in getting photographed by her as I see her happiness grow by the picture. She takes so much pride in her work, and I am so happy to be able to give her an opportunity to take photos. Photography has always been a passion of hers, and I am so proud of how she has stuck with it and followed her heart to do what she loves.

 
If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
If I had nothing to do and all day to do it, you would find me shopping everywhere and anywhere. I've always had a passion for fashion. Fashion is one of the many things that you can truly customize to yourself and use as an outlet for expression. I find it relaxing, joyful, and overall one of my favorite activities to participate in.

Photography by Sandy Szemplinski

​What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
I am super excited about seeing Pink in concert for the second time this fall. She was my first concert and she was amazing. I love how passionate she is about what she believes in.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I've ever accomplished is overcoming an eating disorder. Once I put my mind on recovery, it was a clear path to success.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The advice I would give is to never let negativity or other peoples opinions get to you. Others opinions mean absolutely nothing. Stay true to who you are.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In five years I see myself with my own successful business. I've always wanted to work hard to achieve my goals and be my own boss.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to cook! Baking sweets is my favorite pastime. A fun fact about me is that I started a baking business during the Covid pandemic!

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My hidden talent is reading people. I can always sense what mood people are in and conform to whatever comfort they need.

3 Things on your bucket list
Three things on my bucket list would be traveling the world, being successful enough to be able to donate to many worthy organizations, and to have a platform to speak to as many kids struggling as possible.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my mom inspiring. As much as she is going through or enduring, she always puts a smile on her face and shows up for her family.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I believe what inspires others is my determination and drive. Many people always ask me how I endure as much as I do, and I am glad I can be a role model in that way. I pride myself on being a good student academically on the high honor role and encourage and motivate others to always do their best. I just received an award for academic achievement and for being an engaged member of my school and community from High Point University.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I have two little five pound Shih Tzu dogs that fulfill my life. They are therapeutic, lively, and always an amazing sight to come home to. Their names are Lola and Chloe.

Look for Alexis in issue 68 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 68

click here to nominate an inspiring teen