Madeline Funk

Age: 18

Parents: Anne and Mike Funk

Where are you from?

I was born in Red Wing, but I have been going to school in Albert lea since fifth grade.

If from Albert Lea, which elementary school did you attend?

Lakeview. 

Favorite teacher of all time and why?

Mr. Barickman. I had him for 3/5 years at ALHS and loved the way that he taught his students. He pushed me to strive to be my best and always connected with us to make sure we really knew the material.

Favorite book/author:

I have always been a huge reader, so it is hard for me to pick just one book, but I would have to say that my favorite author would be Cassandra Clare. Her series “The Mortal Instruments” has and will always be one of the best I have ever read.

Current/past activities, volunteer work and accomplishments:

I am involved in soccer, hockey and track. I am proud to have been captain of the hockey team for the past two years. I am also involved with student council, link crew and National Honor Society at school. I have interned at both the Albert Lea Tribune and the Albert Lea Area Schools district office.

What do you want to do after high school?

After high school I will attend the United States Military Academy-West Point. I plan to major in American politics and hope to eventually become a lawyer, politician or CIA agent.

What advice would you give to younger students in Albert Lea?

Always push yourself. Push yourself out of your boundaries to try and experience new things. You never know where those new experiences may take you. Also, don’t be afraid of what people think of you when you’re doing something differently than they are. In the end, what matters is your happiness and success — not theirs.