The words she uses to describe herself (positive, smart, and hard-working) barely scratch the surface of who this senior is. Although she’s only been at RMA since her freshman year, it feels like she’s been here forever. Her kind heart and never-failing optimism make you want to be around her all the time. Whether you’re struggling with a math assignment or the stress of school in general, she will always be there to help. Her genuine kindness and empathy show in everything she does, especially at school. She is always willing to help anyone who looks like they need it, whether it be opening the door for Dr. O’Brien when her hands are full or giving someone a smile in the hallways. She’s the kind of person that makes you want to be kinder to others all the time. You might’ve already guessed by now, but this Senior Spotlight is on Avery Cumpata, a great addition to RMA and a true friend. 

In her time at RMA, Avery has challenged herself academically, this year being no different. Along with being a part of our Media Office team, Avery is taking four AP classes (Calculus, English, Environmental Science, and Psychology) and French 4 Honors. With such demanding classes, she has had to learn to manage her time well, which allows her to keep up such a rigorous course load while also being involved in extracurricular activities and clubs like Key Club and Senior Beta Club. Most recently, Avery has co-founded RMA’s Helping Hand Club, which aims to spread her love for reading to underserved children through sharing libraries. It also gives students an opportunity to get more involved and earn community service hours through book drives, teddy bear drives, and other fundraisers. This summer, the Helping Hand Club ran an extremely successful book drive that resulted in collecting over 400 books for their libraries. They plan to install their library soon at Ripple Effects and run more drives and fundraisers in the future!

On top of all her academic and extracurricular achievements, Avery is also very athletic. She has played a big role on the Lady Eagles soccer team since she came to RMA, playing both defense and mid-field. When not at school, Avery somehow finds time to ride her horse, Cayman, a Dutch Warmblood. Horseback riding has been an important part of her life since she was little. Avery also enjoys reading in her free time. One of her favorite books is Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. 

Over the course of this year, Avery will be applying to different schools, her top three choices being UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, and Clemson. She is most excited to decorate her dorm and meet new people. Avery plans to major in either Chemistry or Biology. In ten years, she sees herself working as an orthodontist and owning her own practice. Knowing Avery, her hard work and determination will get her exactly where she wants to be! 

Get to know Avery!

What is your go to song?

“New Romantics” by Taylor Swift

Where is your favorite place and why?

Geneva, Switzerland because Lake Geneva is gorgeous and there is great shopping!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I would live in Northern Italy.

What celebrity would you want to be for two days and why?

Jennifer Aniston because she’s iconic.

What is your favorite school event?

Powderpuff Football

What will you miss about RMA?

All my friends.

What is one lesson you learned at RMA?

Never give up when you are struggling.