Senior Spotlight: Alex Caywood, Class of 2024

What might some of your favorite memories be?

One of my favorite memories occurred during my 9th-grade year in Spanish class. I was sitting in the back of the classroom and during this time we were required to wear masks. I was attempting to drink water from my water bottle but forgot to take off my mask. Our teacher, Mrs. Lusk saw this happen and couldn’t control her laughter. Everybody else in the class was super confused, but I knew exactly why she was laughing. Also, another favorite memory is hanging out with my Kindergarten buddy Goodwin at the pumpkin patch. 

What is your thesis topic and why did you choose it?

My thesis is on the future of autonomy in commercial aviation. I chose this topic because I plan on becoming a commercial pilot, and I want to know if my job will be secure in the future. I have loved researching this topic and learning more about the world of aviation and my future career path.

How has your learning in a Christian environment at FCS positively affected you?

It is humbling to know that all of the teachers care about me and pray for me daily in and out of class.  Each day, I am reminded of the glory of God during my classes. I can tell teachers genuinely care about me because of the questions they ask and the prayers they pray. I can tell they look at their job not only as a job but an opportunity to mentor students and guide their spiritual journey. Not only are the teachers amazing, but the environment at Faith is unmatched. Because of the size of Faith, I am able to build deep relationships with my fellow students. The senior commons have allowed our class to grow deeper in our friendships and has helped us get to know each other on a whole new level. 

Has there been a teacher at FCS that has impacted your faith, education, or personal growth in a significant way? If you were to say thank you to this person, what might you say? 

I have had the privilege of having Mr. Muench for both Physics and Calculus this year. He not only helps me with his challenging classes during study halls, but he also helps me develop my faith every day through scripture and prayer. He begins each class by asking for our prayer requests and then prayers over them. We then say a morning liturgy filled with verses based on hope for our journey with Christ. Even though our classes are pushed for time, he finds a way to include scripture and prayer into our routine. He also tries to use the slang words we use periodically in class which always cracks us up. Even though physics and calculus are difficult subjects, he has made them enjoyable. 

What might it mean to you to have attended both a classical and Christian school?

Even though the humanities are not my strong suit, Mrs. Hopkins in 10^th grade found a way to make them enjoyable. She took us on a journey through Dante’s Divine Comedy, one of her favorite books. The reason that this class was special to me was because I could tell how much these classical books and documents meant to her. She read with passion, and I will always cherish these memories and this class in particular. My writing greatly improved that year, because of Mrs. Hopkins help and her many corrections with her infamous green pen. This class is a prime example of how a classical education has molded me as a person. The Christian aspect of FCS is incorporated in every class including more technical classes such as math and science. This means that we can see how every aspect of the world relates back to God. Even things like springs in physics class show how God has perfectly ordered the world. I feel prepared as I enter the next phase of my life because of this firm foundation. 

What are some things you would like to tell younger students as they continue their education at FCS?

The Christian foundation that Faith Christian School provides for you is priceless.  No matter how difficult life will get, I will always be reminded of God’s presence because of this education. One thing I don’t think I realized soon enough is how grateful I am for this school. I am grateful for how much the teachers care for us and look at this job as an opportunity rather than an obligation. I am grateful to all of the administration who make this Christian-centered education a reality. Without all of these people, I would not be where I am today. 

What are your plans for after graduation?

I plan to attend Liberty University where I will pursue a bachelor’s degree in commercial aviation. After this, I hope to become a commercial pilot.