2017's 20 Under 20: Madison Null, Battle High School

Age:

18

Parents’ names:

Kim Selting and Brian Null.

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to attend Colorado State University for undergrad and major in biology. I’ll use my education and experiences during this time to make decisions concerning my career and potential graduate plans.

Dream job:

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to work with plants and animals. I’ve had many experiences that have broadened my ideas of what to do with my life and career — I’ve bounced around between veterinarian, wildlife conservationist, and even environmental pathologist. Currently, I don’t have a specific “dream job” in mind, but I’m going to see where my field of study takes me.

Favorite class in high school:

My favorite was microbiology. I took it simply to explore another aspect of biology but came to truly be intrigued and amazed by the content. From identifying specimens in pond water samples under a microscope to learning how viruses and bacteria work, microbiology always caught my interest and kept me engaged in the lessons.

Favorite club or extracurricular in high school:

My favorite extracurricular during high school would be swim team. I am the first Battle swimmer to swim all four years of high school and am proud to have helped to shape the new team. I lettered all four years and had amazing experiences along the way. Swim pushed me mentally and physically. It tested my strength and endurance. Swim introduced me to friends and best friends. I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

Proudest accomplishment in high school:

My proudest accomplishment would be the service club I began with peers during my freshman year, Battle Volunteer Corps. It has had various leaders through the years, but I’ve been a leader of the club since the beginning. I’ve been in charge of organizing countless service projects, fundraisers, awareness events, donation drives, and more. Giving back and serving others with endless opportunities for improving our community is the club’s goal.

Best advice you’ve ever received:

The fact that no one can control things people do or say. No one can control the fortunate and unfortunate things that happen to them. The only thing anyone can control is how they react to these things, and that’s what shapes one’s life.

Biggest lesson learned in high school:

The biggest lesson I learned in high school is that, while being well-rounded and involved is important to me, managing my time and balancing my responsibilities doesn’t always come easily, and various aspects of my life must be actively prioritized.

Future goals:

In the future, I hope to find a career that truly fits my passions and interests. I also hope to travel all around and explore the world. My goal is to find a career that meets both my interests and my wants.

Favorite teacher:

My favorite teacher is Matt Leuchtmann. He has been a teacher and mentor of mine since my freshman year. He has always been supportive and encouraging of my endeavors. He has taught me what it means to be a leader and to have grit — a term he uses to describe determination, resilience, and perseverance. I would not be the person I am proud to be today without his guidance.

Person I admire and why:

My mother has always been a strong role model for me. I’ve always seen her as intelligent and able to accomplish anything. As a veterinarian, she inspired me to follow a similar field of study, and she taught me how to be confident in myself and open-minded to the world around me. If I grow up to be anything like my mom, I will have had a successful life.

What you do for fun:

When I have any free time, I enjoy being outdoors. Hiking, climbing, skiing, biking, swimming, fishing, picnicking, nature walks, and more all give my brain a break from any stresses in my life and make me feel peaceful and happy.