Ed. note: The Enterprise publishes “Catch a Rising Star” to recognize students who stand out among their peers academically, athletically, artistically or in in their attitudes. Students from Glen Lake, Lake Leelanau St. Mary, Leland, Northport, Suttons Bay and those living in Leelanau but attending Traverse City West High School will be featured. Catch a Rising Star is compiled by news editor Amy Hubbell and is published twice a month when school is in session.

Sara Collins, daughter of Michael Collins and Dawn Russell of Bingham Township, is this week’s “Rising Star.”

Sara Collins

Collins, a senior at Traverse City West, was nominated by T-C West assistant principal Konrad Molter.

“Sara has a deep sense of self that does not waiver,” he wrote in submitting her name for consideration. “She sets high standards for herself, and this shows daily in class. All of these qualities make her a person destined for success in whatever she decides to do.”
Collins, 18, is the oldest of six siblings who also include sisters Ryann, 17, Cresce, 16, Kelsey, 15, Olivia, 6, and a brother, Connor, 7.

Sara plans to attend BelHaven College in Jackson, Miss., to study sports medicine/exercise science.

Interests: “Ballet, spending time with friends, art, travel.”

Favorite class: “Nutrition science. I’m interested in the field of nutrition.”

Do you have a role model: “I guess my friend Betsy Green. She’s a professional ballet dancer with Ballet Magnificat, in Jackson, Miss. I met her when I was attending a summer dance camp. She has an amazing personality. She’s really honest and generous.”

Favorite place to hang out: “Anywhere — as long as I’m with my friends.”

Describe your perfect day: “I would be with my best friends traveling somewhere new, seeing new places and doing something new.”

What’s the best book you’ve ever read: The Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom. “It’s about two sisters in a concentration camp during World War II. Their faith is tested and grows stronger during their experience.”

Favorite musical group: “I like all kinds of music. Right now, I’m listening to the radio on WKHQ.”