Natalie Varnet, 17
Why nominated
“When Natalie was 5, she was playing with her mother when her mother suddenly died from a heart attack,” wrote her father, Michael Varnet. “Natalie was at home with her two younger sisters, Megan and Emily. Over the years, Natalie has became a ‘second mother’ to her two younger sisters. She has always been fiercely protective of them (and of her friends for that matter). Natalie now attends Palmer Ridge High School (a junior). She is currently enrolled in four honors programs (math, science, language arts and social studies). She has also lettered in cross-country the past two years, and she has been the team captain both years (an honor bestowed onto her by her teammates). Natalie has also earned a varsity letter as a manager of the boys basketball team, and she earned a varsity letter for her participation in high school speech programs (from Lewis Palmer High School), where she competed at the state level as a freshman. Natalie also serves as a judge for middle school forensic events, and she helps out with the Lewis Palmer Middle School speech team. Natalie has also volunteered at the Humane Society as a dog groomer, and she has participated in the Ser-teens Club (the Sertoma Club for teenagers). Natalie is very driven to succeed, but more importantly, she is equally as driven in caring for her family and friends.”
Q&A
What are some things you do to take care of your sisters?
“Well before my dad got married to Chesly, I was the oldest, so I’d baby-sit. I was very protective; it took a lot of time to get over the protectiveness.”
Of all your sports and activities, what do you consider your main thing?
“Definitely cross-country. I’ve been the captain for the past two years.”
What are your plans for after high school?
“I plan on getting my EMT degree and becoming a firefighter.”
Where?
“It’s up in the air right now. Possibly CSU, or University of Washington.”
Why Washington?
“I just love it up there; it’s really pretty. I have an aunt that lives up there.”
What is the Serteens Club?
“I actually haven’t been involved with it for the past year, but (was during) my freshman and sophomore year. It’s just kind of a volunteer group.”
Natalie said they do community service and hold fundraisers.
What do you feel is the biggest challenge you face in your day-to-day life?
“Just balancing my friends, work and school. I take AP and honors classes, and I work as much as I can. And I’ve had a solid boyfriend for a year, a long-term relationship."
Where do you work?
“Texas Roadhouse and Cold Stone Creamery. I’m trying to (save money). I’m paying off my car, and paying for insurance.”
How do you relax?
“If I’m up to it, I run. Otherwise I love drawing. Drawing’s a passion of mine.”
Siblings
Sisters Megan, 15, and Emily, 13; stepbrother Ian, 13; stepsister Camryn, 8.
