Harper finds positive outlet in music

St. Joseph-Ogden sophomore Lauren Harper loves to sing.

That is why she loves the choir.

“It’s basically the time where I get to de-stress and do what I love,” she said. “I also love the people there.”

Harper was named Fine Arts Student of the Month and was nominated by band director Chuck Hess.

Hess said Harper is a team-player.

“She always exhibits a great attitude,” he said.

Harper said she is looking into attending Illinois State University where she plans on studying music or becoming a theater director for high school programs.

Harper said being a fine arts student at SJO is great because of the family atmosphere.

“I cannot stress enough how much of a family we are,” she said. “We all support and lift each other up.”

Harper only joined the band this year, which she said was an adjustment.
“Entering a program in the middle of your high school career is hard,” she said. “I’ve been in fine arts before but never high school band. It has been a struggle getting used to it, but so worth it.”

Harper said she was honored to be chosen as Fine Arts Student of the Month during her first year in band.

“It feels awesome knowing that I have made a positive impact,” she said.