Welcome to PCIA’s Student Profile blog series, where we help you get to know a little more about each of our all-star students! While we’re proud of our academically rigorous, STEM-focused program, we also know how important it is to take a break from work sometimes, and make space for some of the more fun things in life, like getting to know your classmates. After all, PCIA is known for its focus on building strong relationships, not just between students and faculty, but among peers as well.
All of our students come from different academic backgrounds, and each has come to PCIA with the desire to be challenged academically and with the intent to build a satisfying future and life after high school, whatever that means for them. PCIA students go on to 2- and 4-year colleges and universities, technical degree programs, and some enter the workforce right away after graduation. We hope that by getting to know some of the students who already attend PCIA, you might begin to envision your own bright future right alongside them.
Malachi Sharp
Grade: 10th
Favorite subject: Science
Activities/clubs: Basketball, Science Club member on school time, Mad Scientist by myself
What project or assignment has challenged you the most as a student? Why?
My high school biology project was the most challenging as it required a lot of time management which is an area in which I’m weak. Partially due to the fact that I’m a rather…sporadic thinker.
What was the most enjoyable book you’ve read for school this year?
Being at PCIA only part time for now, I haven’t read a book for a class. However, this year I read The Name of the Wind which I enjoyed greatly. It’s well written in my opinion, a high fantasy book revolving around magic and the naming of the world (if you want someone to talk your ear off with book analysis I recommend Isaac Sabourin) .
Which subject do you think will prepare you most for life after high school? Why?
Definitely Biology as I plan on going into a STEM field so I have an excuse to say “FOR SCIENCE!” and then blow things up.
What is your favorite class in school? Why is it your favorite?
Yet again, Biology is easily my favorite. Mr. Van Duzor does a wonderful job teaching an interesting subject that he clearly loves, and his enthusiasm rubs off on the students. I have a significantly higher interest in that field now.
Do you prefer group or individual work in school? Explain.
Individual teams are only really my thing if it’s sports related or its five or fewer people. At PCIA, small groups are a constant, so it can really go either way. Spectacular environment.
Who is your favorite historical figure? Why?
Nikola Tesla, as it’s really hard to tell when and where he went from being an utter genius to his brain falling out his ear. And I can identify with that. Plus I think it’s cool how he was centuries ahead of his time with some of his later inventions
What is something you are really talented at?
Brooding, ask any of my friends or my parents I’m kind of an expert, even amongst the angstiest of teens. I’ve mastered skills from pensively staring at the horizon to the subtle “you don’t even know” glare.
What advice do you have for new PCIA students?
I would recommend learning time management as you will be given a lot of leeway with due dates. It’s easy to be lulled into procrastination like everyone else. Be the outlier. Be the kid that’s so annoyingly perfect and on top of things and has color coded notes. Because, trust me, they’ve got it more under control than you do, and when it’s all on paper it’s out of your head, and that means less stress for you.