Class of 2017
Academy
Williamsburg
Eliani Erickson
Hey there, I’m Ellie.
I got into Williamsburg because of my older brother, Tim. He was super into this whole “online” thing. Being the younger sibling, I followed in his footsteps and I have loved every minute of it. I love being a Burger. Williamsburg has given me perspective, knowledge, and connections with people who live hundreds of miles away from myself.
Williamsburg has broadened my perspectives, taught me how to think, and forced me to manage my time. Even though I have wanted to kill Canvas, I have grown to adore each class I have taken. Williamsburg taught me how to be a leader. Before Williamsburg, I didn’t know how to connect with others and express my viewpoint in a kind, respectful way. By studying core books, discussing concepts, and formulating my own opinions, I have managed to think outside myself and develop a bigger perspective of the world around me. Elevation was a time for direct application of the ideas I learned in my Williamsburg classes, and I loved every session.
Outside of Williamsburg, I have had a crazy life. Summertime was filled with summer camps, hiking, backpacking, and dancing. When I was 16 years old, I had the opportunity to join the polka troupe (group of 12 youth dancing the polka) in the Elk Grove Strauss Festival. Months of rehearsing cumulated into one week of performing. I participated in the Strauss Festival for two years and it was an absolute blast. I have also had the opportunity to attend leadership camps (Elevation, Camp Royal), girls camp, and go on many trips. I have hiked many a mountain and had lots of adventures.
When I was a sophomore, I was introduced to American Sign Language (ASL). The next year, I decided to take ASL 1 from my local community college, and I fell in love. Since then I have taken ASL 1, 2, 3, Deaf Culture, and Intro to the Interpreting Field. I’m currently taking ASL 4 and I have decided to become an Interpreter for the Deaf.
Although I am sad to leave high school, I am beyond excited to move onto this next phase in my life. Plans after highschool include: graduate from college, serve a mission for the LDS church, and travel the world (not sure when, but it’s gonna happen). In the fall I will be attending Utah Valley University; Deaf Studies major with an emphasis on Interpreting. I’m so stoked!
William Shakespeare once said, “Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt.” As I have applied this in my life, many doors I didn’t even know existed have opened. So be authentic, take classes that interest you, and don’t be afraid to try new things!
So that’s me! I love language, travel, dance, nature, books, deep discussions, food, friends, connections, adventure, my religion, experiences, and Williamsburg Academy. It’s been a good life, and an especially good four years. I am so grateful for my family, friends, and mentors who have inspired me to strive for excellence. Through their wisdom, I have become the person I am today. Thank you for cheering me on.
