Bridgeport, WV, senior Megan Murray prepares to dance into a pharmacy-focused career

“I’m proud of it because I have worked really hard throughout high school, taking AP classes,” she said.

Murray is taking AP Calculus, College English at the Gaston Caperton Center and Dance Ensemble. She took several Advanced Placement classes previously, she said.

“Last year was harder,” she said. “This year it’s not as difficult, but still challenging enough for me.”

Murray said the advanced courses are preparing her for college-level work, helping her balance her time properly and also giving her credit hours towards college.

By taking the classes now, she won’t have to take them in college.

Though she remains busy with her studies, Murray also has been involved with various activities, including the Bridgeport High School Dance Line and serving on Student Council.

“Ever since I was 3 I’ve been dancing,” she said. “The season just ended, and it was really sad because it was such a major part of my life I’ve always been dancing, but I’m grateful for the experience.”

On Student Council, she is the acting student body president secretary and said she has enjoyed serving in the role.

“It allows me to give back to the community while being with my friends doing it,” she said.

Murray added that she is also a member of the National Honor Society and has helped in various projects, including providing food at the Clarksburg Mission. She’s also involved with the society’s blood drives.

The most challenging time for her to balance academics and other activities was during dance season, she said.

“It was difficult because you always have practices for hours a week, and if you are going to work on projects for (National Honor Society) or (Student) Council, it takes up a lot time,” she said.

She plans to attend West Virginia University in the fall to pursue a pharmacy degree.

“I really enjoy chemistry, and it gives me a chance to help others in my community, which I found a love for in high school,” she said.

After college, Murray said she could see herself working in a place that allows her to do pharmacological research, searching for new medicines and cures for a variety of diseases.

Her path, she said, may be challenging, but her career and experiences at Bridgeport High School have made her feel prepared.

“I’m pretty confident because I had a lot of teachers shape me into the person I am, and they gave me the chance to really push myself and see what the real world is like,” she said. “They teach us to never settle and push us to do our best.”

Cheryl McCarthy, Murray’s chemistry instructor, said her pupil exemplifies what it means to be a student and a leader.

“I have truly enjoyed working with and getting to know Megan over the past few years,” McCarthy said. “She is a gifted student with tremendous potential who excelled in the chemistry classroom. Megan served as the Student Council secretary this year, displaying leadership and a commitment to service.”

Murray said she won’t forget her time at Bridgeport High School.

“I’m grateful for my time here,” she said.