Kiwanis Student of the Month October 2023: Kayleigh Hurd

Ferndale High School senior Kayleigh Hurd prides herself on doing something every day to brighten her fellow students’ day.

“Whether it be helping plan things as big as Homecoming or Freshman Orientation, or just doing daily tasks I’m given, I’m always doing my best to make this school a happier place,” she said. “I also try to always have a smile on my face and greet people.”

Hurd is the senior class treasurer and participates in many extracurriculars, from cross country and track to sports medicine. She has been the captain of the cross country team since 10^th grade, which is something she’s particularly proud of.

“Throughout elementary and middle school, I was very shy and didn’t like leading, but once I got (to high school) I saw how much of a positive impact I could have on others,” Hurd said. “So being ‘crowned’ as team captain was a big accomplishment.”

Throughout high school, Hurd has worked at Mount Baker Ski Area and the Bellingham Golf and Country Club, as a restaurant cashier and a lifeguard, respectively. After high school, Hurd plans to attend college – preferably Washington State University – and study kinesiology or athletic training. She already has some experience in this field, as one of the student leaders for FHS’ sports medicine team. Ideally, Hurd said she’d like to work in professional or collegiate sports and help them train and recover from injury.

Hurd became interested in sports medicine during ninth grade, after taking a class with teacher Thomas Diimmel. She said she likes the idea of an actively minded health career.

“I knew I didn’t want to sit in a clinic all day, and if I pursue a career in sports medicine, I’ll likely be out at practice helping athletes right away,” Hurd said. “I’ll be there when injuries happen, I won’t just see the aftermath and recovery.”

Hurd said the most influential person in her life is her dad, whom she described as resilient, reliable, and always willing to help.

“He encourages me to dream big and offers his support in anything I’m doing,” she said of her dad. “He’s very dependable, and that quality has been passed onto me.”

It’s difficult for Hurd to pick one favorite aspect of attending FHS, but she said she loves the school’s passion and spirit.

“At football games, along with other sports, the student sections are always packed and everyone’s cheering on Ferndale,” she said. “Spirit weeks are also something I greatly enjoy. Seeing everyone dressed up for the themes, it makes coming to school much more fun and entertaining.”