Whiz Kid: Marian Student Wins State Essay Contest

Bloomfield Patch regularly features students doing amazing things. This week's Whiz Kid is a patriotic senior that defined the importance of voting better than any other student in Michigan, according to Secretary of State Ruth Johnson.

School: Marian High School

Age: 18

Hometown: Bloomfield Hills; daughter of Dr. Dan Pieper and Donna Pieper.

Achievement:

Pieper received a first prize award for this summer's patriotic essay contest sponsored by the Michigan Secretary of State to help celebrate Patriot Week. Students from grades 6-12 had to answer: 'How does a citizen's right to vote help make America the greatest country in the world?' in 400 words or less.

"Voting is such an amazing opportunity because it allows each and every citizen an equal say," she wrote in her essay, titled A Vote is a Voice, Speak Out.

As the first prize winner, she received an American flag flown over the state Capitol on the anniversary of Sept. 11 as well as a special plaque.

What makes her successful?:

Pieper credited her English teachers for her writing ability. She also acknowledged her parents for teaching her to always give her best effort, and for encouraging her to enter the essay contest.

"From St. Hugo to Marian High School, each teacher has taught me new techniques that have only added to my writing ability," she wrote to Patch.

"(My parents) are the ones who provide me with the opportunity to go to such great schools," she also said. "What drives me to excel is the Marian community and my family. The Marian community stresses the importance of women being leaders and achieving their goals."

What's next?:

Pieper said she plans to study international relations and marketing in college, while also pursuing her interests in theater and music. Writing will also remain a priority.

"I plan on using this to help me prepare for college," she said. "I definitely want to continue my writing in whatever college I go to as well as continue to progress in my writing skills."

Do you know our next Whiz Kid?

Bloomfield Patch welcomes suggestions for students, youth groups and even sports teams who wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about amazing children and teens and select one each week as Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or email the information to editor Art.Aisner@patch.com. Please include all these details:

• Nominator's name
• Whiz Kid's name and age
• Whiz Kid's school
• Whiz Kid's accomplishment
• What makes him or her successful