Coronado senior enjoys structure of math, freedom of arts

Add a half-cup of love for mathematics, a dash of music, three cups of creativity and a pinch of community service. Sprinkle with optimism and mix as directed.

By following this recipe for success, Coronado High School senior Seth Thompson manages to find time for all of his interests without spreading himself too thin.

As a self-described hardworking, curious and open-minded individual, Thompson has worked diligently throughout his educational career for some of his greatest achievements: serving as captain of Coronado's Varsity Quiz team, presiding over the community service group National Honor Society, immersing himself in his school's broadcast team and possibly graduating as valedictorian in June.

"I believe one of my greatest accomplishments is graduating high school as a well-rounded student and being successful in the arts and sciences," Thompson said.

With his variety of interests and talents, including his many triumphs in art and science, Thompson plans to continue his education at a college or university that provides a rigorous and thorough liberal arts education. By attending this type of college, Thompson hopes to satisfy his need for film and creativity, while maintaining his strong love for mathematics.

"I love math because I enjoy problem-solving and applications in the real world," said Thompson, who was inspired by his middle-school math teacher, Mr. Stedman. "I find math interesting because of its concrete nature and the fact that there is only one answer to every problem."

Not only was Stedman a wonderful math teacher and role model who taught Thompson how to solve problems through useful shortcuts, but he also was a compassionate person who urged his students to spread their kindness by donating to the community and helping others, Thompson said.

Although he enjoys helping others through the many school clubs he is involved in, Thompson also likes pursuing many personal interests in his spare time that provide him a creative outlet.

"I really like to read and I'm a magician in my spare time. I also enjoy listening to music and composing electronic music with my keyboard," Thompson said, citing some of his favorite musical influences as the bands Justice, Kings of Leon and The Strokes.

When Thompson is not immersing himself in the sweet melodies of the 21st century, he gratifies his love of music by playing classical piano, most notably pieces by Franz Liszt and an array of 20th century composers.

With his plethora of skills, from music to magic to mathematics, it would seem difficult for anyone, let alone Thompson, to figure out a specific career to pursue. Although Thompson does not have a concrete idea about his plans, he knows that he would love to submerge himself in a mathematics field, as well as having an occupation that allows him to express his imagination and ingenuity and that lacks the monotony of a regular desk-job.

"The greatest thing about being a teenager is that you still have an array of opportunities ahead of you," he said. "You're able to take everything in, giving you the chance to plan while your future is wide open."

Those close to Thompson realize the potential that lies within him, which they believe will help him reach his goals.

"There is no doubt that Seth will go far in life," said Troy Ashbaugh, a senior at Coronado High School and one of Seth's close friends and Varsity Quiz teammates. "He has such amazing determination and natural drive. I look up to Seth. He's an amazing role model and has inspired me to do better not only in Varsity Quiz, but reaching for my own goals in life."

Through his academic awards and previous successes, it would seem to be an immediate reaction of many to classify Thompson as solely book smart. But to Thompson, being intellectually brilliant is something more than what the academic mind may capture.

"Being brilliant is really about having the ability to dream big and have a vision of the future and what you want to accomplish," he said. "A hardworking and brilliant person has the drive and the focus to accomplish what they want."

And this is just what Thompson is doing -- working hard and dreaming big.