It’s only been a year since Kapa‘a High School alum Deidra Spencer’s been out of the prep ranks, but nothing has changed, as the Southern Oregon University sophomore continues to boast a hefty GPA (3.99). The six-sport athlete, who graduated
It’s only been a year since Kapa‘a High School alum Deidra Spencer’s been out of the prep ranks, but nothing has changed, as the Southern Oregon University sophomore continues to boast a hefty GPA (3.99).
The six-sport athlete, who graduated in 2003 attributes much of her academic success to working hard and setting goals.
While at Kapa‘a, Spencer lettered in soccer, riflery, track & field, tennis, basketball, and cross-country, which was her favorite sport in her own estimation and she was also able to grab a state berth in the long-distance sport.
At Southern Oregon University (SOU), located in Ashland, Oregon, Spencer majors in environmental studies, with a minor in photography. She hopes to become either a park ranger or a photographer for national parks.
Spencer’s parents (Albert and Betty) both teachers, have done a great job with enabling her to follow her dreams.
Playing six sports in high school and graduating with a 4.1 GPA has taught Spencer the importance of staying focus.
“I think it’s really important to have some free time away from studying and sports, as it really allowed me to clear my mind and be refreshed,” Spencer said.
This summer, Deidra interned for the County of Kaua‘i in the personnel office of public works, helping with filing and creating templates for files. With school just about a month away, Spencer still runs and keeps in shape, in addition to working at Cold Stone Creamery in Kapa‘a.
As for the future, Spencer will continue to excel in academics, as well as anything else she pursues and next summer Deidra plans to garner some experience by working at a national park.
“Eventually, I want to come back to work in Hawai‘i, but it’s still up in the air and too early to say where I’ll end up,” Spencer said.
