How to Balance College Classes, FFA, and Faith as a High School Senior: Addison Patnode Does It All

Inspiring Teens Magazine
5 days ago
6 min read

Addison Patnode – Texas

Nomination by Cheyenne Patnode

Photography by Olivia Henry Photography

Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine®

Nomination: Addison is an exceptional young woman who truly embodies what it means to inspire others. As a future senior in high school, she balances academics, leadership, faith, and service with remarkable dedication. Addison is actively involved in her church, where she faithfully serves and encourages those around her. She works at a Pet Lodge, caring for animals with compassion and responsibility. As an officer in FFA, she demonstrates strong leadership skills and a commitment to agricultural education. In addition, she is already taking college classes while still in high school. Addison’s servant heart, work ethic, and positive influence make her highly deserving of recognition.

Photography by Olivia Henry Photography

What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about?

One thing not mentioned is that the one thing I love the most is to try and brighten others day. Whether that’s by a smile, wave, or a simple conversation on a bad day, I always like to try and help to the best of my ability!

What is one act of kindness you have received that inspired you to pay it forward to others?

One act of kindness I received was from my pastor at my church. Every morning, even whenever he seems just so exhausted, you’re always greeted with a big smile and wave. Even on the days he preaches and shares some of his week and you can tell he has had a rough week. He still always makes sure to greet everyone with a big smile. That always inspires me to do the same.

What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now?

My dream I am currently working on right now is becoming a vet. I am currently getting some more experience working in the field with animals in hopes that I can then go forth to college and pursue my dream.

What first sparked your passion for caring for animals and wanting to become a veterinarian?

Whenever I was little I have always dreamed about becoming a Veterinarian, and I guess that got sparked in me by my grandpa. We used to always find baby bunnies and some of them would be hurt, and we would take them in and nurse them back to health. Since then I have found such a passion in doing everything I can to help animals, no matter what kind.

What has been one of the most memorable experiences you have had while working with animals so far?

By far the most memorable experience would be the time that we raised a cottontail rabbit. He became so tame, and became like another pet to us, we even named him Bambi.

What qualities do you think are most important for someone pursuing a career in veterinary medicine?

I feel like one of the most important qualities in this career, is you have to be very resilient. It isn’t always fun and happy, sometimes there nothing you can do to help the animal, and that is where this comes in. You have to be able to move through it, and keep moving after not being able to save one.

What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you?

This answer hasn’t changed, it will always be my faith! It matters so much to me because it has shaped who I am today. My faith has gotten me through days I couldn’t see the light through, and that is something I could talk about forever.

How has your faith influenced the way you handle difficult situations or setbacks?

It has helped me to better handle mainly my anxiety. I have always struggled with it, and it has caused major setbacks in my life, by just holding me back from doing things I love. And by growing my faith stronger I have learned that if you build your foundation on the rock, when the wind and rain comes, you will stand firm. And knowing that has helped me to get through very hard times in my life.

What Bible verse, quote, or piece of advice has had the greatest impact on your life?

Psalms 23:4. “Even Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me”. Has helped me so much in my life to just always remind myself that no matter what I’m going through in life, Christ is always with me.

What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year?

One thing I have learned about myself is that I tend to always tend to stress out when it comes to someone disagreeing with me, or even just if I can’t reach someone the way I hoped. I know that may sound like a bad answer but it has helped me to learn that it is okay to be different, and has helped me grow as a leader.

How has learning to accept different viewpoints helped you become a stronger leader?

Because I had to realize that not everyone will see things the same way I do, and with that it helped me to not be as worried about if people will agree with me or not, and to lead stronger by hearing out other people’s opinions, and not just taking it and doing it the way I agree only.

What is a challenge you have overcome that taught you an important lesson about yourself?

One challenge I have overcoming is stage fright. I used to be terrified to talk to people, with extreme social anxiety. And whenever I was finally able to overcome I learned that I am strong enough to push through it, and that was a lesson that I needed to learn.

What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you?

The person who nominated me was my mom, and my by far favorite memory was whenever we went to this huge outdoor concert down in Alabama. Even though it was so humid we were miserable, it truly is something I will never forget!

Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like?

The person who took my photo was Olivia Henry. She truly is the best, and every experience with her is nothing short of amazing. She always shoots compliments while shooting and makes sure you never feel awkward or embarrassed behind the camera.

Are you part of a model team with your photographer?

Yes! I am an OHP Senior Rep and it’s amazing! The girls are amazing, and we’re lucky to have such a great photographer!

How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you?

I first heard about it last year whenever I got nominated for it. It has become a huge part of my life because it gives me the opportunity to share my story to reach more people that may need help. Without this opportunity, I wouldn’t have been able to take the step to help more people from all over the world.

How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you?

It would help me a lot because everyone knows college is expensive, and that would be put forth to pay for my education!

What made you say “yes” to the Inspiring Teens challenge, and how did you feel when you first started?

Knowing I can share my story to the whole world is what made me say yes, and at first it was terrifying, and a little overwhelming but I don’t regret it one bit.

If another teen is thinking about joining the Inspiring Teens Magazine Leadership Challenge but feels unsure, what would you tell them?

I would tell them without a doubt it is so worth it!

Beyond votes or placements, what are you hoping to gain from this experience—and what would make you feel truly successful at the end?

I am hoping to encourage people by my story, and hope that people can see that there is hope in the darkness, and even maybe find their way to the light.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you get where you are today?

I would like to thank my Dad. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, he always shows up, always supports me no matter what, and is always there for whatever crazy adventure I want to go on. I couldn’t make it through this life without him.

Look for Addison in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Want more from Addison? Read her article on finding your place in FFA on the Inspiring Teens® blog.

Vote for Addison below for the cover and a scholarship by clicking on her picture!

* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.