One of this year’s first Senior Spotlights is on someone I have known as long as I have known myself: my twin brother, Walt Fisher. Although I’ve always had the joy of knowing Walt, RMA did not get to meet him until he joined the school in seventh grade, bringing with him a personality that is empathetic, charismatic, and hard-working.

Not a day goes by without Walt tackling one job or another. Known for being an exceptionally hard worker, with his bosses often complimenting him on his work ethic, Walt is a “jack of all trades” who can accomplish anything asked of him. For the past few years, he has worked at Boseman Farm, doing jobs such as mowing the grass or moving things around with the tractor. During the school year, along with senior Liam Long, he landscapes with Jacob Parker, who you might know as the man who keeps our buses running at RMA. 

Despite working almost every day after school, Walt somehow still finds time to hang out with his friends while golfing, hunting, fishing, or–his favorite pastime–working on his truck. His friends are not the only people Walt manages to rope into working on his vehicle; he routinely convinces family (me) and even my friends to help. During Christmas break last year, senior Sadie Meadows and I fell prey to his charm when he asked us to assist as he added star lights to the interior of his truck. The request seemed simple enough, but we ended up spending two full days helping him; thankfully, neither of us had anything we had to do since it was the holidays, and even though it was not a task we expected to spend so much time on, we just couldn’t be mad at this boy who takes so much pride in this vehicle everyone has seen (or heard) around RMA.

Although Walt prefers being outside, he does not let this inhibit his academic abilities. Last year, he received the award for the Highest Average in English 11–an award Dr. O’Brien doesn’t hand over to someone not worthy of it. Wanting to keep challenging himself, Walt is now taking English 12 Advanced. Other classes include Marine Biology, Algebra 3/Trigonometry, Sports Management, and Ceramics. As someone who enjoys interacting with and helping others, Walt also works as an intern with the Exceptional Children’s Program and also participates in the Stronger Together Club. EC Teacher Mrs. Whitehead says, “Walt has a super chill personality that allows him to come into the classroom and interact seamlessly with all of the students. He is a big help when he comes in, whether it be helping students with their academics or playing a quick game with them.”

Aside from his classes, Walt participated in RMA’s campus life by playing sports during his first two years of high school. He played JV basketball in the ninth and tenth grades and played JV football in the ninth grade. He was also on the golf team as a sophomore. Despite loving to get out on the field or court, Walt has prioritized working during his eleventh- and twelfth-grade years. He strives to develop a proficient work ethic and work towards a successful future.

As RMAs’ seniors are starting to apply to colleges, Walt is working on applications to ECU and Pitt Community with the intention of majoring in Construction Management. Although it is hard for me to imagine the two of us going our separate ways, as I do not recall a day in the past 17 (going on 18) years when I have been without my brother, I do not doubt that wherever Walt ends up, he will accomplish any goal he has, as he is one of the most determined people I know. His charm and loving heart will get him far in life, but there is no question that whatever he does, he will find the fun in it.

Get to know Walt!

Who is your role model, and why?

My grandad, because of his loving personality and ability to lighten somebody’s day

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie is Point Break.

What is your favorite food?

Any type of pasta

Where is your favorite place to visit or spend time–and why?

Anywhere on the water because it is calm and peaceful

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

I would live in the Bahamas.

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

A hammock, a cooler, and sunglasses

What is your favorite school event?

Senior night

What will you miss about RMA?

The breakfast

What are you looking forward to in college?

A new environment

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Working and providing for my family