* Personal: Age 17; daughter of Dr. Patrick and Cheryl Hamilton of Kihei; enjoys reading, writing, swimming, scuba diving.
* At School: Student body vice president, Maui District Student Council Organization representative, honor roll, advanced placement classes, varsity swimming, air riflery, National Honor Society, Secondary Student Council, LIFE (Living in Faith Experience), Relay For Life, yearbook staff, marching band, Science Club, soil conservation awareness competition.
* Off Campus: Girl Scouts, altar server and Eucharistic minister at St. Theresa Church, Rotary Youth Leadership Award Camp, Hawai'i Writers Conference.
Article Photos
Malia Hamilton
* Beyond High School: Plans to attend either Columbia University or the University of Texas, then would like to attend graduate school and begin a career in international relations. "In my spare time, I would like to be a writer and published author."
* Who is your personal hero and why? "Maria Garetti, known today as St. Maria, was 12 years old when her neighbor attempted to rape her. She said she would rather die than submit to him, so he began to stab her with a knife. Later, as she lay dying in the hospital, she forgave him. After serving 30 years in prison, he emerged a changed man. He received forgiveness from Maria's mother and he was present at St. Peter's Basilica in 1950 when Maria was canonized as a saint. The life of St. Maria exemplifies how forgiveness is always possible and can be life-changing. Her story challenges me to free myself of grudges and to focus on compassion and forgiveness."
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The students in this weekly feature are selected by officials at their respective high schools. "Student Spotlight" recognizes students of good character who are involved in school or community activities such as athletics, clubs, student government and volunteer work.
