Maggie Atkisson: Leading with Empathy & Pursuing Medical Social Work | Inspiring Teens Magazine
- Inspiring Teens Magazine
- Aug 9
- 3 min read
Maggie Atkisson – Indiana
Photography by Caitlyn Burson Photo
Nomination: Hi, I’m Maggie Atkisson, a senior from southern Indiana. I play tennis and I am a part of the Caitlyn Burson Photo senior representative team! I am very passionate about mental and physical health which is why I plan to become a medical social worker after high school. I have been told that my level of emotional intelligence and ability to empathize makes me a good leader. I hope to be able to apply these skills to my future career and life!
What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about?
Through my high school experience, I have had the opportunity to observe many different including special education and preschool. This has taught me patience, empathy, and leadership. Students come into school from all sorts of different backgrounds and it is important to treat them accordingly so each child has the opportunity to succeed. I always love helping students out especially the ones who might need a little extra help.
What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now?
I am currently working on working hard through the rest of my senior year to set myself up for success in college and career!
What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you?
I could talk about the importance of being able to self regulate your emotions. It is a fundamental part of communication, emotional intelligence, and situational awareness. It is tricky to get the hang of self regulation. However, in my experience, being able to understand yourself definitely helps stressful events go more smoothly.
What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year?
As a leader I have learned that no matter what, it is important to stand up for what you believe is morally correct. It is so easy to go with the popular choice and what everyone else is doing. Especially as a young woman, there are often words like “bossy” and “stubborn” thrown around when different opinions are voiced. Despite this, I think it is important to stand your ground, dig your heels, and take up space.
Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like?
Caitlyn Burson has been my tennis coach, teacher, and photographer. I have great memories with her in class, on the tennis court, and behind the camera as a member of her senior representative team! She is truly so creative and I love how she works so hard to deliver the best photos ever!
When I was accepted to her senior representative team I was super excited because I’ve followed her work and watched it grow. She always is very creative, very intentional, and very helpful. I have loved my experience taking photos with her.
How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you?
I heard about Inspiring Teens Magazine through my photographer. Being a part of it matters to me because I think if I could inspire at least one person to reach for their goals, it would mean the world to me.
How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you?
I plan to go to school for my bachelors and masters straight out of high school. Eventually I may even pursue my doctorate. The scholarship money would help me facilitate my higher education and help people professionally.
Look for Maggie in issue 104 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.
Comments