Jasjot Sanghera is Kiwanis Student of the Month

Ferndale High School senior Jasjot Sanghera is Ferndale Kiwanis Student of the Month (SOM) for January. Kiwanis members were impressed when they read Jasjot’s biography and listened to her share her accomplishments and perspectives via Zoom. They noted, "She was poised and articulate, and we know she has a stellar future ahead of her."

Jasjot has been on the Honor Roll since her freshman year. She is a three-year member of the National Honor Society, and she has won first place in the Veterans of Foreign Wars essay contest twice. Jasjot has been involved in school leadership for three years, and she helped plan a memorial for victims of violence against the black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) community. Jasjot also helped create the first South Asian Club at the high school, which works to celebrate the rich diversity within our school district.

Jasjot’s participation in school and community activities illustrate the breadth of her interests and talents. She is a member of the International Club, plays two instruments, has a brown belt in Taekwondo, and served as a student representative on the City of Ferndale's Parks and Recreation Committee.

Jasjot also manages to hold a part-time job. She has worked in customer service at the Lynden McDonalds for the last two and a half years, where she has been recognized as Employee of the Month. Her duties include taking and handing out orders, making drinks and bagging food.

Jasjot credits her mother with being the most influential person in her life. "She has taught me not only to value the many opportunities that come your way but also to pursue them actively," said Jasjot. "Following this advice has resulted in my acquiring a variety of skills, like speaking five languages, playing two instruments, dancing, and practicing taekwondo. I try to be hardworking and constantly open to new learning."

Following graduation from high school this spring, Jasjot is hoping to study linguistics or sociology at the University of Washington. She would also like to take her studies abroad for a time to learn about different cultures around the world.

When asked to explain what she feels is the most important issue facing our local community, Jasjot replied, “I believe we lack diversity and community involvement around diversity. When the pandemic allows us to do so, I hope to put on a cultural event honoring the many cultures within Ferndale. I would love to interact with the community and educate them about my culture as well as various others.”

We extend our deepest congratulations to Jasjot. We are proud of her and her accomplishments.

We also want to thank the Ferndale Kiwanis for its continued support of our students. Each month the club shines a spotlight on one of our high schoolers who is making a difference. In addition, they provide scholarships to support our students’ post-high-school learning.