“Just Do It.” This slogan is most commonly associated with Nike, however it also guides Griffin Zollars, senior. Throughout his high school career, Zollars has delved into many different International Baccalaureate [IB] courses, gymnastics skills, books and knitting projects. His expansive interests have helped him navigate NPHS’s campus and, ultimately, life itself.
Zollars’ day begins at 7:30 a.m., as he wakes up for school, then eats breakfast. At school, he engages in scholarly activities including laboratory experiments in IB Chemistry, lectures in IB 20th Century History and debates in IB Philosophy. Zollars particularly enjoys Philosophy and Theory of Knowledge for their real-life application. “I think they teach you to question the world around you and see the world differently, which I believe is a useful skill,” Zollars said.
After school, Zollars goes to his gym to practice his gymnastics skills. Zollars has been an elite gymnast for ten years, and he is currently working on his triple backflip skills. As an elite gymnast, Zollars has gleaned many lessons from his coaches throughout the years. One coach in particular stands out to him as an interesting historical figure in his life. “He had very profound thoughts, and I would like to hear his perspective on everything now,” Zollars said. If Zollars had the chance to talk to another historical figure, though, he would also like to have a conversation with Isaac Newton.
Post-high school, Zollars is interested in studying economics. He is still deciding which college to attend, as he has many options, including the University of California, Berkeley, Middlebury College and Wesleyan University. To help with his decision-making, Zollars is currently reading a book about the history of liberal arts colleges. “I want to continue to achieve academically in college and possibly get a doctorate degree in order to become a professor in Economics,” Zollars said.
When he is not busy in the classroom or at the gymnastics studio, Zollars spends his time engaging in his hobbies, such as knitting. “It might surprise some people that I enjoy knitting,” Zollars said. He especially enjoys knitting beanies.
Zollars is also interested in art history, and he would like to travel to Europe to stroll through museums and see iconic art pieces. “I would travel to Florence, Italy, to learn more about Renaissance art and art history,” Zollars said.
As his time at NPHS concludes, Zollars has learned many lessons, inspired by his drive and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. Ultimately, Zollars recommends that people should delve into their interests as well, even if they are not the best at them. “I think ‘Just Do It’ is a good way to live. You don’t have to be completely prepared for something in order to take the first step,” Zollars said.
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