Senior Profile

Simonsen Excels In Speech, Drama

After winning a state speech and drama championship as a junior, Culbertson High School senior Josie Simonsen is again enjoying her involvement in the activity this year.

She is competing in memorized public address for the second straight season. “I like it because I can write my own analysis of the words I’m saying. I really enjoy it,” the senior explained.

Her subject this year is “Success, Failure and the Drive to Keep Creating,” by Elizabeth Gilbert.

“It talks about finding your passion in the future and staying with it regardless of success or failure,” Simonsen said. “It’s great message.”

Simonsen said winning the state title last year was her biggest accomplishment. Her goal this year is to place in the top three at the state level. “It’s really hard to win another state championship,” she explained.

Another favorite activity for her is FFA. She enjoys competing in floriculture and parliamentary procedures the most. “I like putting flower arrangements together,” she said. “In parlia pro, I like learning how meetings are run.”

Her favorite class is English. “My teacher, Ms. Panasuk, makes it really fun.”

Simonsen said she doesn’t have a specific favorite teacher. “I like all my teachers.”

She began taking classes in Culbertson during her sophomore year. She attended elementary school in Sidney and then went to Lambert for her freshman year.

“I like the community, it’s really nice,” Simonsen said of Culbertson.

After high school, she will attend college to earn an elementary teaching degree. She decided she wanted to go into the education field when she was in the eighth grade.

“My mom definitely was a huge factor and I really love kids,” Simonsen said.