Senior Spotlight: Kiran Yoder, Class of 2025

In what grade did you start attending Faith?

I have attended Faith Christian School since kindergarten.

What activities were you involved in while you were a student at Faith?

At FCS, I have participated in Cross Country (6 years), Soccer (2.5 years), Swimming (3 years), Theatre (4 years), La Mesa (3 years), Ministerium (2 years), SGA (2 years), Debate (2 years), and Praise Band (2 years). I have also been a Student Ambassador (3 years) and served for an upcoming 13 years of Project Faith.

What might some of your favorite memories be?

My favorite memory is going on the senior retreat with Mr. Smith and fishing with Cooper and John.

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

My thesis topic revolves around the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, using his life and writing as an example of how one ought to deal with physical struggle through spiritual renewal.

What do you feel have been some of the academic benefits of attending Faith Christian School?

Because of the Christian environment, I have felt no need to hide my faith or to feel ashamed of it. I am also trained to see God’s presence in the world through every little thing.

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? 

Many teachers have had significant impact on all three elements, but one stands out in my mind. Mrs. Hopkins has helped me through struggles with her patience, grace, and understanding. She has always been very kind to me since middle school, but this year, I have felt very cared for with her as my thesis advisor. I would say thank you to her for her compassion. She has not yet made me feel as though I ought to be fixed, and yet she has helped me to work through hardship. Even the smallest conversation with her is very important to me.

What does it mean to be a classical and Christian school?

From my perspective, classical, Christian education has been perceiving the good, true, and beautiful in every element of “school.” From biology to the arts, the school has framed the curriculum with an ethical, logical, and emotional slant drawn both directly and indirectly from scripture.

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

This school offers many opportunities for both fun and education, and if one is not offered, they will try their best to make it happen. If you need something, ask for it. The people here are as supportive as they get.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I have committed to Roanoke College and am planning to attend undeclared with a minor in theatre. I am also considering joining the cycling team at the college.