PROGRAMMING HIS FUTURE

The Raptors’ lead programmer looks back on his high school career

by Daniel Schmidt staff writer

Central has a rich history of academic excellence, athletic success, and community involvement. It serves as a pillar of the Traverse City community, providing a high-quality education to students from all walks of life. Senior Gabriel Seaver is one of many graduates who has remained dedicated to his studies. He has maintained a 4.88 GPA throughout high school. With a passion for robotics and programming that is evident in every aspect of his life, Seaver is a shining example of what it means to be a well-rounded and accomplished young person today. But perhaps one of Seaver’s most impressive accomplishments is his scholarship for the Achievement of Excellence award that he received this year from the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation.

With all of his achievements, it is clear that Seaver is an exceptional young person who is destined for great things. As Seaver grew older, he continued to hone his skills in both programming and robotics. He has been a member of Central’s robotics team since his freshman year, and he is currently the lead programmer. “I did robotics in elementary school, but it hadn’t been on my mind for years,” Seaver admits. “I’ve been a programmer for a very long time. So, I got into robotics with the hopes of meeting other programmers and learning how to program better.” Some of his best memories at Central have been with the robotics team and competing together. “One of my favorite mo- ments was when we won the competition at West, and then we won the chairman’s award. Another big one was going to Houston for the Worlds event,” he recalls.

Thinking back on his experiences at Central, Seaver reflects on other positive experiences as a high schooler. “I really enjoyed it. Being in high school rather than middle school for one thing.... I sat outside under a tree in the courtyard, outside the cafeteria, and I just remember thinking how grateful I was to be outside eating,” Seaver remarks. High school can be a scary thought for most incoming freshmen or current freshmen, and other schools might not prepare them for what high school is like. But hearing words from a senior might just boost their confidence when coming into freshman year. “Think about your future. Make your decisions… it’s good to make sure that your work aligns with your goals,” Seaver adds. “It doesn’t always mean studying 20 hours a week and being the best student at school.”

As Seaver prepares to graduate from Central, he is looking forward to pursuing his future goals and study pre-med, with the eventual goal of becoming a doctor. He plans to attend Hope College. “I’m excited to graduate and move on to college. Socially and personally, I’m very nervous,” Seaver acknowledges, “and I know I’ll really miss my friends, but I think I’m about as close to being ready as I could ever be.” //