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Becoming valedictorian was not a goal Lakeland High School graduate Alexis Perkins had in mind.

In an interview this week, Perkins said she believes her focus on working hard and being dedicated to her studies helped her earn this honor.

She said she believes the advanced placement classes she took at LHS helped her grade point average.

“It was a lot of work and a lot of studying,” Perkins said. “I would stay up multiple nights in a row to make sure all my assignments were done.”

She explained that it was draining on her through the school year. But she always tried to keep a positive mindset regardless.

“Looking back, I am extremely proud of all the work I put in to be able to have the recognition of being valedictorian,” Perkins said.

Looking back on graduation day, she recalls being extremely nervous knowing she would be delivering the valedictorian address. But when she got on that stage, Perkins said all her nerves disappeared.

“I was looking into the eyes of my classmates, some of whom I’ve known since elementary school,” she said. “I was easily able to speak clearly and deliver my speech with no nerves involved. I felt very relieved once it was all over though.”

With high school behind her, Perkins said she is now looking ahead to beginning her college studies at Radford University.

“I chose this college because I fell in love with the campus and the environment seemed very positive and uplifting. I felt like a perfect fit at that school,” she said. “I also fell in love with Radford’s nursing program and decided that that’s what I wanted to commit to.”

Perkins’ goal for college is to earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

“Once that is acquired I want to either specialize in pediatrics or become an emergency pediatric travel nurse,” she said. “I do also want to go back to school afterwards to become a nurse practitioner.”

Perkins said she hopes becoming a nurse will allow her to make a difference by saving lives.

“I want to be able to have connections with my patients to give them the best care and to make them feel safe and welcomed,” Perkins expressed. “I hope to also inspire my younger patients to want to make a change in the world as well.”