Despite his obvious proficiency at the keys, Harding Senior Matt Howard was somewhat reluctant to display his talent on the piano. Talking about himself on camera, prooved to be only slightly easier.
Says Matt, "A few years ago it was all about the competition and always have to be the best, but, looking back now, no, it's really not all about that, and this type of thing."
What it was about, multi-talented Matt discovered, was doing your best, while at the same time, helping others to do theirs.
"People are not turned-off by his academic interests", says Harding Band Director Jennifer Greupner. "In fact, I think they appreciate him and his need to help others and interest in helping others."
Matt's musical ability helped Harding become region champions, and runner-up at the 2009 State Music Listening Competition. The captain of the Knights cross country team, Matt is also an Eagle Scout, who says that scouting played a big part in his personal development.
"You're actually learning how to be a decent person and how to conduct yourself in the presence of others", says Matt. "But, you don't realize you're learning that until after you have the gift of hindsight, and you can look back and say, 'well ok, this is what it was really all about."
Matt carries a weighted 4.81 GPA, a 34 on his ACT, and a #2 ranking in Harding's senior class. And, just for the record, instead of talking, Matt Howard would rather let his actions speak for themselves.
"You can make someone else's world a better place", says Matt. "And, it's about the small things that you do. And, it's about trying to be the best you can be, and being the best you can be. Not necessarily just trying."
(Copyright 2009 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)
