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Zoe Furman
Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:38:14 GMT
Zoe Furman – Pennsylvania
Nomination & Photography by Albright Studio Photography
Issue 101 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
Nomination: Zoe Furman is a senior at Montgomery Area High School. She not only takes pride in her academics, but her athletics as well. She was an instrumental part in establishing girls wrestling in Lycoming County, and still assists youth wrestling today. At this year's state wrestling competition, Zoe brought home gold. During all of her athletic training, she remains an active member of her church. She is also committed to Edinboro University to continue her athletic and academic career. Her sportsmanship is something all athletes should strive toward — she is nothing short of an amazing role model.
Photography by Albright Studio Photography
What inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you were not mentioned in your nomination that you'd like readers to know about?
Apart from wrestling I am involved in other sports such as soccer and softball. Aside from athletics I am heavily engaged with multiple clubs and organizations in my school. I am President of the Senior Class, President of LEO Club, Leader in STRONG Student Positivity Leadership Team, Manager of the Broadcasting Program, Member of NHS, Officer of Virtuoso, Counselor at Lycoming County Camp Cadet, and a Youth Mentor in the Raider Reach Out Program. I am also a recipient of the YWCA Young Ladies of Excellence Award.
That is an extraordinary list of roles. How do you decide where to give your time and energy when so much is pulling at you?
Depending on the time of year, each activity and role demands more or less. Certain parts I can take care of throughout the school day, while others take time outside of school. Communication with the different aspects of my life is key to making each of the activities flow smoothly.
You helped establish girls wrestling in all of Lycoming County — something that didn't exist before you. What was the moment you realized this was something you needed to fight for?
Girls that wrestled had existed before me, but they were forced to compete on the boys’ side. Growing up I too competed on the boys’ team, but knowing that many other girls would participate in the sport if it was all girls, was the moment I realized that fighting for our separate sport was an action I wanted to take.
What is something you feel passionate about or could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you?
I could talk about wrestling for hours. The way this sport has changed and impacted my life is nothing I could ever replace. Wrestling has made me into the person I am today. My core values intensified and it led me to realize hard work and determination can lead you to success in whatever you decide to commit to.
What is one thing about wrestling that most people misunderstand or don't see from the outside?
The mental and physical demands of wrestling is something only those that partake in the sport understand.
You brought home gold at the state competition this year. Walk us through what that moment felt like — what was going through your mind?
It felt so surreal. Knowing the countless hours of work I put in to achieve that goal paid off, left me speechless.
What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or person in the past year?
I feed off other's energy. Whether it is in a sporting event, a school assignment, or a friendship. I need to feel the positivity and support radiating off you.
Knowing that about yourself — how do you show up for others when their energy is low and they need someone to lean on?
Lending a supportive hand and saying I'm here for you if you need, but never pushing for someone to open up. It's their choice, but everyone deserves a support system.
You mentor younger students through Raider Reach Out. What do you most want them to take away from time spent with you?
No matter what you want to achieve in life, set goals and believe in yourself. You can admit to anything.
What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now?
A project I am working on building is a name for myself in videography and photography that deeply impacts my future aspirations, especially throughout college. My dream is to work closely with a collegiate or professional sports team.
What drew you to videography and photography specifically — and how does it connect to your love of sports?
The broadcasting program at my school, which I became heavily involved in as soon as I started high school. I can capture emotions and the physicality of sports through a camera to share with the athlete, their family, and even the world.
You are heading to Edinboro University in the fall. What are you most excited about — and what are you most nervous about?
I am most excited for the independence and bonds I'll create away from home. I am most nervous about the transition from high school to college.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice about stepping into leadership before you felt ready, what would it be?
Go all in. Be confident in yourself and your abilities.
What is one of your favorite memories your photographer, Maddy, who nominated you?
One of my favorite memories with Maddy from Albright Studio Photography was during my very first session with them. It was a senior shoot and I had the ability to bring my goats Pickles and Bubba for a part of it. They are always flexible and try to make anything possible.
Tell us about the photographer or person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like?
Albright has taken my photo for elementary wrestling ever since I first started in fourth grade. I had the opportunity to apply to become their senior influencer for the class of 2026 and to my surprise I was chosen. Every interaction with Albright has always been fun and extremely easy going. I had never gotten anything taken like this before and they made it so comfortable and relaxing.
How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you?
I heard about it through my photographer when Maddy had asked about nominating me. I also learned about it when they posted my photo on their instagram page. It would be amazing to be able to be recognized as an inspiration to others especially compared to those around my age.
If you win a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine, how would you plan to use it and what goals would it help support?
I would use it to ease the financial burden of college. Making it easier to focus on my academics and pursue my collegiate wrestling career. As well as creating an image for myself for future aspirations in photography and videography.
What do you hope readers of Inspiring Teens Magazine take away from your story?
Even when times are challenging and you feel that life is telling you to give up. Don't. See through those adversities and become a better and stronger version of yourself.
What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
To work with a professional sports team, taking photos and videos to put together for content.
Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
My family is my support system, they're always there for me no matter what. My teachers, who push me to become a better person despite those who root against me. My coaches, have stuck by my side through injury and health.
Look for Zoe in issue 101 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.
Apart from wrestling I am involved in other sports such as soccer and softball. Aside from athletics I am heavily engaged with multiple clubs and organizations in my school. I am President of the Senior Class, President of LEO Club, Leader in STRONG Student Positivity Leadership Team, Manager of the Broadcasting Program, Member of NHS, Officer of Virtuoso, Counselor at Lycoming County Camp Cadet, and a Youth Mentor in the Raider Reach Out Program. I am also a recipient of the YWCA Young Ladies of Excellence Award.
That is an extraordinary list of roles. How do you decide where to give your time and energy when so much is pulling at you?
Depending on the time of year, each activity and role demands more or less. Certain parts I can take care of throughout the school day, while others take time outside of school. Communication with the different aspects of my life is key to making each of the activities flow smoothly.
You helped establish girls wrestling in all of Lycoming County — something that didn't exist before you. What was the moment you realized this was something you needed to fight for?
Girls that wrestled had existed before me, but they were forced to compete on the boys’ side. Growing up I too competed on the boys’ team, but knowing that many other girls would participate in the sport if it was all girls, was the moment I realized that fighting for our separate sport was an action I wanted to take.
What is something you feel passionate about or could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you?
I could talk about wrestling for hours. The way this sport has changed and impacted my life is nothing I could ever replace. Wrestling has made me into the person I am today. My core values intensified and it led me to realize hard work and determination can lead you to success in whatever you decide to commit to.
What is one thing about wrestling that most people misunderstand or don't see from the outside?
The mental and physical demands of wrestling is something only those that partake in the sport understand.
You brought home gold at the state competition this year. Walk us through what that moment felt like — what was going through your mind?
It felt so surreal. Knowing the countless hours of work I put in to achieve that goal paid off, left me speechless.
What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or person in the past year?
I feed off other's energy. Whether it is in a sporting event, a school assignment, or a friendship. I need to feel the positivity and support radiating off you.
Knowing that about yourself — how do you show up for others when their energy is low and they need someone to lean on?
Lending a supportive hand and saying I'm here for you if you need, but never pushing for someone to open up. It's their choice, but everyone deserves a support system.
You mentor younger students through Raider Reach Out. What do you most want them to take away from time spent with you?
No matter what you want to achieve in life, set goals and believe in yourself. You can admit to anything.
What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now?
A project I am working on building is a name for myself in videography and photography that deeply impacts my future aspirations, especially throughout college. My dream is to work closely with a collegiate or professional sports team.
What drew you to videography and photography specifically — and how does it connect to your love of sports?
The broadcasting program at my school, which I became heavily involved in as soon as I started high school. I can capture emotions and the physicality of sports through a camera to share with the athlete, their family, and even the world.
You are heading to Edinboro University in the fall. What are you most excited about — and what are you most nervous about?
I am most excited for the independence and bonds I'll create away from home. I am most nervous about the transition from high school to college.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice about stepping into leadership before you felt ready, what would it be?
Go all in. Be confident in yourself and your abilities.
What is one of your favorite memories your photographer, Maddy, who nominated you?
One of my favorite memories with Maddy from Albright Studio Photography was during my very first session with them. It was a senior shoot and I had the ability to bring my goats Pickles and Bubba for a part of it. They are always flexible and try to make anything possible.
Tell us about the photographer or person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like?
Albright has taken my photo for elementary wrestling ever since I first started in fourth grade. I had the opportunity to apply to become their senior influencer for the class of 2026 and to my surprise I was chosen. Every interaction with Albright has always been fun and extremely easy going. I had never gotten anything taken like this before and they made it so comfortable and relaxing.
How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you?
I heard about it through my photographer when Maddy had asked about nominating me. I also learned about it when they posted my photo on their instagram page. It would be amazing to be able to be recognized as an inspiration to others especially compared to those around my age.
If you win a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine, how would you plan to use it and what goals would it help support?
I would use it to ease the financial burden of college. Making it easier to focus on my academics and pursue my collegiate wrestling career. As well as creating an image for myself for future aspirations in photography and videography.
What do you hope readers of Inspiring Teens Magazine take away from your story?
Even when times are challenging and you feel that life is telling you to give up. Don't. See through those adversities and become a better and stronger version of yourself.
What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
To work with a professional sports team, taking photos and videos to put together for content.
Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
My family is my support system, they're always there for me no matter what. My teachers, who push me to become a better person despite those who root against me. My coaches, have stuck by my side through injury and health.
Look for Zoe in issue 101 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.
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