PLHS has many academies to expand learning into specific fields a student may find themselves going on to study in college.
One of these academies is the Athletic Training Academy, designed to show students a glimpse of what the trainers do for the athletes at their very own school.
“The Athletic trainers always make sure to teach in a way to understand and watching them is the reason I wanted to apply,” senior Madison Perez said.
Compared to last year, there is an estimate of double the applicants wanting to be apart of the upcoming Athletic Training Academy 2024-2025 year.
“Athletic Training Academy becomes more competitive to get into with everyone applying,” Perez said. “It will show who really wants to work to be in this academy.”
For new applicant Morgan Perez, she is looking to fill the spot her sister Madison is leaving behind after graduating.
“I am anxiously waiting for the decision of the new members,” sophomore Morgan Perez said.
The difference in difficulty to get into the academy, has led to new applicants having a different view on applying than past ones.
“When I applied the process was very simple and I just had a few essay questions and had to explain why I should be in the academy,” Madison said.
The change in the applying process has created new emotions for the now junior class, but the opportunity to be apart of something they could do for the rest of their lives motivates them.
“I wanted to apply because it’s a combination of my favorite things, sports and medicine,” Morgan said.
As the academy expands at such a high rate, it leaves the upcoming junior class and many beyond them to have a harder time with acceptance. But the drive to innovate the future in athletic training keeps this academy lively with many new faces eager to be apart of the journey.
