As a sophomore, Paige Wilson isn’t sure what career path she’ll be following. However, as someone who came into this world a genius, and who carries that title to this day, she can achieve anything she puts her genius mind to.

“I mean, obviously I work hard to achieve what I do, but I’m lucky to have most of it come pretty naturally to me.”

Turning only 16 in a month, Wilson is already a Jane of all trades. She has been involved in extracurriculars at her school such as Youth and Government Club (YAG), History Club, tennis, and as stage crew for the musical, Newsies.

“I really enjoy being a part of YAG because it provides so much experience in law in government that I would otherwise not ever have the chance to get,” Wilson says.

Outside of Knoch High School, Wilson has spent more time in Florida and the Bahamas than the average teenager. She got her certified scuba diving license at only ten, and does volunteer work for Rock The Ocean, an ocean conservation group.

“I also do some volunteering for Butler Historical Society,” she says.

Wilson enjoys gaining new experiences and being able to apply the knowledge she gets from them. By having such a broad range of interests, and the ability to pursue them, Wilson is surrounded by opportunities. However, it’s not all easy.

“She puts a lot of pressure on herself,” says her best friend of twelve years, sophomore Lily Hawks. “Like, an unreasonable amount.”

Growing up as a smart, respectful, straight A student has set the bar high for expectations. However, these expectations come more from herself than her peers or parents.

“Sometimes, I just don’t have the motivation to put in the work that I feel like is expected of me,” Wilson says. “And even if it really isn’t, I still expect it of myself.”

When one has had perfect test scores and a spotless report card all their life, it’s hard to accept a lower A or a couple points off. For a grade most people would be thrilled with, Wilson feels obligated to push harder and do better.

“She forgets she’s as human as the rest of us, she’s allowed to make mistakes,” says her friend and fellow sophomore Lara Ejzak.

As she’s getting older and taking harder classes, Wilson is learning to give herself some wiggle room to not overwhelm herself with unreasonable standards. Even as she does, her natural knack for things and her love for learning will always be pushing her to know more.