Teen Spotlight: Jake Yohn
stats: 18, Senior at Saint James School
notable:
- National Honor Society
- STJ Government Award
- Boys State Delegate
- Co-founder of Students for Katie Britt
quotable: “If you don’t like the way the table is set for you, then turn over the table.”
his story: Jake shared that he loves attending Saint James School because “I have been given many opportunities to try new things and join different groups.” He is very involved, from Alabama Youth in Government, Student Ambassadors, FCA, and SGA to Basketball and Football. Jake was elected to statewide office twice in Alabama Youth in Government (ALYIG) and currently holds the office of the Chief Justice. In addition to his many school-related extracurriculars, Jake plays the drums at his church, Heritage Baptist, every Sunday. Jake advises others to “put yourself out there. Try new things. You’ll never know if you are good at them if you don’t try first.” He wants to be remembered as someone that made a lasting change in our society and someone who glorified Jesus while doing it.
what’s next: Jake wants to pursue a career in law and run for public office. When asked what drew him to this field, Jake shared, “My time in the Youth in Government program has sparked my interest in politics. I also had the opportunity to work for a law firm this summer.”
PG (parental guidance) rating: Jake shared “I am proud of my family because we always stand true to who we are. No matter how crazy the world gets, I know I can count on my family to support me. Both my parents and my brother go above and beyond in what they do.”
parent-to-parent: Jake’s parents, Nicole and David, shared, “Jake has always been bold and courageous. We have never had to worry about him being shy, or not speaking his mind. We love his ‘go get ‘em’ attitude and fearless drive to be the best he can be. Jake has never been afraid to try new things. He is the bravest person we know.”
Nicole and David had this advice for other parents, “Always be ready to listen and encourage them to be the best they can be. Let them know it is ok to fail. To quote Winston Churchill – ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.’”
