This week’s Spotlight Jag is Dayana Felicien! Dayana is a senior at FMHS and is actively involved as the current student body president. As an athlete, Dayana also participates in track and field and has accumulated numerous accomplishments, including an advance to state in the 4×200 relay event.

Q: What is your advice for people who are looking into starting track but are hesitant to do so?

A: Honestly, I was hesitant to do track as well. I wanted to do all the sports, but track became the better option for me in middle school. Coach Cook (our high school track coach) is always talking about being a hard worker and just giving it your best.Track is a hard sport despite what people think, and you can feel uneasy about the unknown, but if you just put your best effort in, you’ll excel!

Q: Does the choice of shoes really matter while running track?

A: I would say that shoes are one of the most important things about running. Though there’s not a lot of gear for track, all of the components together can make a big difference in your running. Personally, I am a shoe collector, but I always make sure that my feet are in the best condition for my body and I can be the most effective. There are different types of running shoes as well, so if you are especially looking into track, please reach out, I got you 😉

Q: How do you maintain your physical health as an athlete?

A: Food, exercise, and sleep are the biggest things. Eating and dieting are super important to me. I’m not one to turn down a burger or a cookie, but I know the time and place where I can indulge more than other times. I don’t do calorie checks, but I strive to get protein (or supplements for protein depending on your diet), fruits, vegetables, and just a balanced food group.I run for a club as well, so I don’t go to a gym, but rather workout at my coach’s gym which gives me a targeted exercise to gain strength, not bulk.Also, getting sleep is super important! Running without energy is useless, and can cause more injuries because of your lack of focus and energy.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to fellow student athletes, what would it be and why?

A: Enjoy high school. School and grades are important, but please don’t let one mistake ruin your time. It sounds cliche, but I wish for everyone to enjoy the athletic games, theatre plays, choir performances, band concerts, art shows, and more! Just be present!

Q: What are some of the biggest initiatives that STUCO has planned for this year?

A : There is an extensive list.

But this year we are trying to include more student activities, while also adhering to the inconsistency of our global pandemic. To list a few:

• Homecoming 
• Blood Drive
• Kindness Week
• Childhood Cancer Awareness 
• Globally Green
• Teacher Appreciation

If you would like to know more, please reach out or come to the Student Council room 2240 upstairs in the main campus during 3rd period.

Q: What is the most important thing you have learned during your time as a high schooler?

A: I’ve learned to just be myself, and enjoy every moment that I can. Fight (in a good way) for my grades, my friends, my accomplishments. Try everything while it’s on mom and dad’s dime 😉 And have fun!