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Aubrey Burdis has been called an exceptional student, who is committed to excellence.

The junior at Tekoa Accelerated Studies T-STEM School in Port Arthur is a member of the National Honor Society and is a dual-credit student.

“My main focus is being a therapist,” Burdis said, adding she would like to one day open her own clinic to help others.

Other options would be as a nurse or perhaps in day care or pre-kindergarten working with young children.

Her first career choice — therapist — would allow her a way to listen to people who may have mental health issues and offer advice.

Burdis’ dedication has impressed teachers and administrators.

Andonnia Lowe, campus administrator, said Burdis is an insightful, sensitive and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore medicine, technology and aviation.

“Her caring nature and personality allows her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others’ opinions,” Lowe said. “Aubrey demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings and perspectives of others. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 18 years of employment here at Tekoa. I am certain that Aubrey is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future.”

Social studies teacher Rose Ann M. Gabud has worked with Burdis for two years. She describes her as diligent, dependable and truly dedicated to her academics.

“She has a positive attitude towards her fellow classmates and is well loved by educators,” Gabud said. “She is committed to excellence and achievement both in academics and towards her goals in life.”

English teacher Kristofer Cuizon said Burdis sets an example of excellence in behavior, cooperation, confidence and perseverance when facing challenges and difficulties. She is known to ask questions and try her best.

The soft-spoken student enjoys Tekoa because of the opportunities and dual-credit courses. Another plus is the mini learning expeditions students take part in.

She most recently was part of a group that visited Rising Aviation High School in Addison, Texas.

She had a passion for aviation years ago because she wants to travel the world. A job as a flight attendant would let her do this should she change career paths, Burdis said.

When not studying, she enjoys listening to music and watching anime.

When it comes to music, she enjoys En Vogue, the Jackson 5 and singers Beyoncé

and Rhianna. Classic R&B and soul are her favorite genres, along with hip-hop.

As for anime, she recently began watching Black Clover, she said.

After graduation she would like to attend Lamar University or Louisiana State University.