Jessica Piper
Jessica Piper

Jessica Piper's Senior Division paper took first place in June at the National History Day competition in Maryland.

Piper researched and wrote a detailed account of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877, in keeping with the theme "Turning Points in History."

Along with medals and prizes, Piper's accomplishment distinguishes her as a National Endowment for the Humanities Scholar, a sought-after title awarded to only a relative handful of researchers each year.

Why did you choose that subject for your National History Day project?

It was just something I found really interesting. I was interested in labor history and this one kind of struck me when I was doing research. I found a lot of interesting stuff, a lot of old documents and newspaper articles.

Why did you enter the competition?

It's required in 10th grade, but I decided to put in a lot of extra effort. I got pretty passionate about my topic. The national competition was a really good experience.

What advice do you have for students who are entering this year?

If you're willing to put in a lot of work, you can do really well with your project.

What are you most looking forward to about your junior year?

I'm taking a lot of classes that I'm really excited about this year.

What are not looking forward to?

Junior year is supposed to be a lot of work.

What's your favorite class?

Economics -- I really like that my teacher is super engaging. It's about understanding what's going on in the world and all the things you see in the news.

What extracurricular activities do you do?

I run cross country. I'm captain of the speech and debate team. I'm in charge of teaching speech and debate stuff to other kids and coordinating things. You have to be willing to practice a lot and work really hard. You go to tournaments every weekend.

What's your favorite book?

I like "Harry Potter" and "Hunger Games."

What do you like to do for fun?

I play the piano and volunteer a lot. I volunteer at the Louisville Library. I coordinate a program for early elementary school readers.

What's your dream job?

I'm not really sure yet. Maybe something with journalism.

-- Amy Bounds