With only nine students in the senior class at Liberty Christian Academy, it’s important for students to be able to get out of their comfort zone to participate in classes and the school community. Senior Sarah Brumagin says that’s one of the most valuable lessons she’s been learning.

Brumagin and her classmates are enrolled in a broad range of classes in the morning, while they spend their afternoons working jobs or taking college courses.

Brumagin was one of two students at LCA chosen last summer to attend the Missouri Girls State program, which teaches students about government and leadership at a week-long camp. Brumagin said she was reluctant to apply to the program, but was encouraged by teacher Bryan Spencer.

“I was like, ‘It’s not me, it’s not my personality,” she commented. “(Spencer) was the one who kept pushing me and saying ‘I know you can do it.’ He really got me to get out of my comfort zone.”

Unfortunately the 2020 Girls State program was canceled due to COVID, but Brumagin expressed encouragement just from applying and being accepted.

Q: What’s your favorite class?

“I like leadership (class). It teaches you good life skills that we’ll definitely need when we graduate and we’re on our own.

“It teaches you that everyone has to be a leader. ... It teaches you ways to go out of your comfort zone, and different skills to be a leader.”

Q: What classes are you strong in, and what classes are difficult?

“I’d say I have a lack in math and science. I’d say English is my strong class.”

Q: For challenging classes, what strategies have you learned?

“Just really try to focus whenever the teacher’s giving the lesson. Take lots of notes. Be really interactive with the teacher and the lesson. ... If I’m lost, I’ll be the first one to ask questions.”

Q: What teacher has been influential to you?

“There are two. Mrs. (Bev) Wilgus is really good about sharing a Biblical perspective of life. And then Mr. Spencer is always pushing us to get out of our comfort zone and do more activities.”

Q: What other activities are you involved in?

“I play volleyball. And I’ve been trying to get my A+ hours by tutoring. I’ve actually really enjoyed that. I’ve been tutoring the first and second grade class, and they’re super sweet, super fun to work with. ... I’ll see them in the hallways and they’ll get super excited. That’s probably the highlight of my day.”

Q: What have sports taught you about life?

“In any sport, you have to be able to work with your components. You have to work with your teammates in order for the game to function. In life, you’ll be acquainted with people you maybe don’t get along with. You have to navigate through your situation and try to figure out a solution.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

“I’m not sure yet. I’m trusting in God, praying that He will guide me. I’m keeping my options open and looking into State Tech as an option, or maybe (Moberly Area Community College) in Mexico.”

Favorite food: Pizza or burgers

Favorite music: Country

Favorite destination: Colorado