Phil Campbell senior Noah Williams had one goal in mind throughout his high school career: To become the valedictorian of his class.
Williams was nervous during the release of his high school class rankings, but he knew he would be in the running for it and was confident he would achieve his goal. When the announcements reached the top of the list, Williams’ name was number one.
“It was a truly exciting moment for me, but it was one I was hoping for and expecting for a long time,” Williams said. “I had a feeling I would be in contention for it, and I knew it would be between another classmate and me.”
One of the things that led to Williams’ success, he said, has been the support from people close to him in his life.
“My family pushed me to be the best student I could be, all throughout my high school career,” Williams said. “Also, my teachers helped me tremendously along the way. Whether it was helping me more after class or whatever, they truly helped me get to where I am today.”
Phil Campbell High School principal Gary Odom said he is proud of Williams, calling him “a great student.”
“Noah is a one-of-a-kind student,” Odom said. “He works hard, he’s a great student and he deserves everything he gets.”
One of the things that stood out to Odom was Williams’ work ethic, and he said it truly speaks to how successful he has been as a student.
“If Noah makes a 99 on a test, he’s mad at himself because he knows he could do better,” Odom said. “If he misses a day of class, he’s torn up about it. That kind of student doesn’t come around very often. He’s been this way for the past four years, and it’s been a real joy to watch him work as hard as he has and to be able to see him succeed.”
Williams plans to attend The University of North Alabama for two years and then transfer to Alabama to pursue a degree in engineering.
One message that Williams wants to convey to younger students who hope to one day be the valedictorian of their class is to start early and be consistent.
“For the kids out there that want to be at the top of their class one day, they need to participate and do not be lazy,” Williams said. “Listen to your teachers. It may not seem like it now, but they do know what they’re talking about. If you listen to them and do your work, you can be very successful.”
