No matter how you are feeling, rest assured that the focus of this week’s senior spotlight will put the biggest smile on your face. Always full of laughter and radiance is Timoni Amante Barnes, who joined the RMA family in 2021. Since then, the senior class and Upper School teachers have experienced all that Timoni has to offer through his kindness and inclusion of others. Everyone who encounters this class clown described as “bright and funny” can certainly agree that Timoni upholds these qualities. Despite the fact Timoni joined us later in high school, we all value the time he has spent here, and he’s certainly left his mark. 

Timoni has attested to the fact that transitioning from public school to RMA was one of the best decisions he could have made. He stated, “When I first came to Rocky Mount Academy, everyone treated me as if we had known each other forever. The students and teachers welcomed me with open arms.” With this support from his classmates and teachers, Timoni has really put his best foot forward academically. This year he is taking Ecology, English 12, and Algebra III Trigonometry. If you ever spent time around Timoni, you know he is probably singing a new song that “you’ve just got to hear” or discussing the latest game that aired on TV.  Timoni diversifies his day by taking classes that relate to his interest: Sports Medicine and Music Performance. He even received the French I award his sophomore year. 

Timoni has a love for sports and staying active. This fall, Timoni excelled in football, making the most out of his final season as a senior. In the winter, Timoni took to the basketball court to show off his athleticism. After deciding to take a break from baseball this year, Timoni picked up a job at a local carwash: ‘The Wave’. In addition to showing sportsmanship on the field and court, Timoni is a part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, which lets him practice his faith and worship with like-minded students. Outside of school, Timoni values spending time with his friends and family. What some people do not know is that he actually has 5 siblings and a twin sister, making him one of 7 children! In his free time, Timoni enjoys attending Busco Beach, an ATV park, to ride four-wheelers. 

As for his future plans, Timoni is going to attend East Carolina University and major in nursing. He was also accepted into UNCG, UNCC, Mary Baldwin University, Charleston Southern, and Barton College but ultimately felt he belonged in Greenville. Timoni’s passion for nursing started when he was in Middle School and has been a dream of his ever since. We can confidently say that because of Timoni’s kindness and compassion, he will achieve his goals and positively impact the lives of others, especially his future patients.

Get to know Timoni!

1. What is your favorite movie?

Friday After Next 

1. Describe your dream vacation. 

10 days in Puerto Rico

1. Who is your role model?

My dad 

1. What is something nobody knows about you?

I lived in Washington state. 

1. If you were trapped on a deserted island, what three things would you bring?

Compass, axe, fire starter 

1. What is one piece of advice you’d give to an incoming freshman?

Do your homework!

1. What class would you take again, and why?

Marine biology because of Dr. Wells