Scholastic Superstar Jillian Landon

Jun. 10—Name: Jillian Landon

School: Tunkhannock Area

Parents: Kelly and Kristin Landon

Plans: Study civil/environmental engineering at Lafayette College

From the school: Jillian consistently challenges herself by taking the most challenging courses and is highly involved in the school community. A member of the Envirothon and Quizbowl teams, the musician and athlete is a member of the class of 2021 steering committee. She is exceptionally well-rounded, with a solid base of intellectual know-how coupled with creative thought. She is equally as adept in her pursuits that require precision and accuracy, such as AP Chemistry, as she is in her creative endeavors like playing bass. She is just as willing to write a paper or give a speech as she is to roll up her sleeves and clean a fish tank. Participation in all of her activities is a true reflection of her character. She cares about others and has a sincere desire to do her part in the world.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Two accomplishments resonate with me as my proudest achievements. The first was my selection as a Marquis Fellow at Lafayette College. This honor was a culmination of hard work, time and dedication throughout my four years of high school. Secondly, being chosen as the bassist for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 9 Jazz Festival for three years was rewarding. The ability to rehearse and perform under the direction of professional musicians as well as meet other outstanding musicians was an amazing experience.

What were your most rewarding activities?

In reviewing the varied activities I participated in during high school, two stand out as the most rewarding. My participation in the Trout in the Classroom program allowed me to experience raising trout from eggs to fry. Throughout this project, I was able to educate other students about healthy water quality and the life cycle of trout. In the spring of 2020, I released the trout into a wonderful habitat that serves as a healing fishing retreat for disabled service members, first responders and their caretakers. Later that summer, I volunteered at a fishing event held there and saw firsthand the joy experienced by the participants catching large trout, an activity that was not available to them prior to the inception of the fishing retreat. I left there inspired and humbled. My participation in varsity sports was also very gratifying. Playing tennis and running distance events in track and field fueled my competitive spirit and allowed me to push myself personally to contribute to a team. I will never forget the enjoyment I experienced cheering on my teammates as well as hearing encouraging cheers in return.

Who do you most admire?

I admire my little brother Ben Landon the most. At the age of 12, he is the most witty, humorous, smart, supportive and well-versed young man you will ever meet. He is the one person who never fails to bring a smile to my face no matter the circumstances. He has never missed a tennis match, track meet or band concert of mine, and he is by far the biggest and loudest supporter in the crowd.

Sadly, Ben was diagnosed with a serious illness in March of this year. This news was earth-shattering to a young and athletic 12-year-old boy. Throughout his diagnosis, he has endured numerous tests and procedures. During this, he has remained upbeat and a smiling beacon, even when it takes nurses three tries to set his IV. When he comes home from treatments, he is often tired, but still wants to attend my track meets and hang out with his older sister. I see now that he is the strongest person I have ever encountered. Not only will he kick his illness in the butt, but he may have even more knowledge than the doctors when he has finished reading all the pamphlets they provided him.