Aven Osborne: Inspiring Balance Through Academics, Athletics, and Service

Aven Osborne, a 10th-grade student from Lee’s Summit, Missouri, is the embodiment of a modern-day role model. At Summit Christian Academy, she excels as a multi-sport athlete. Alongside her athletic pursuits, Aven is deeply committed to academics and community service. Her philanthropic efforts include supporting animal welfare organizations like Furry Kids Refuge and Wayside Waifs and volunteering at her church. Known for her resilience, discipline, and ability to balance a packed schedule, Aven brings inspiration to her peers and a fresh perspective on what it means to lead a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

What motivates you to maintain such a busy schedule balancing sports, school, and service?
I thrive on the idea of growth. Every sport, academic challenge, or community project gives me an opportunity to learn and improve myself. I’m motivated by the thought that every effort I put in today will prepare me for something greater tomorrow. My family, faith, and personal values keep me grounded and remind me why I’m doing it all. The feeling of accomplishment when I cross a finish line, ace a test, or see the impact of a fundraiser makes all the hard work worthwhile.

How has your involvement in multiple sports shaped your perspective on teamwork?
Playing so many sports has taught me that teamwork is more than just working together—it’s about trusting and supporting each other. In soccer, for example, it’s not about how skilled one player is; it’s about how the team communicates and executes plays. Even in more individual sports like track, your team still pushes you to perform your best. I’ve learned that being a good teammate means lifting others up, sharing successes, and finding ways to grow together.

What inspired you to dedicate so much of your time to community service?
Giving back has always been important to me. It started with my love for animals—I saw the need to help shelters like Furry Kids Refuge and Wayside Waifs, and I couldn’t just stand by. Volunteering at my church added another layer of fulfillment because it reminded me that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. I’ve come to realize that community service isn’t just about helping others; it’s about connecting with people and making a positive impact, no matter how small.

What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned through your athletic journey, and how did it shape you?
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that improvement takes time, and success doesn’t happen overnight. In track, there were moments when I felt frustrated because I wasn’t running the times I wanted or wasn’t improving as quickly as I hoped. It was tough to put in the effort day after day without immediately seeing the results.

Over time, I realized that progress is a journey, not a destination. Each practice, each run, and even each setback contributed to building my endurance and strength. It taught me the value of patience and consistency. That experience shaped how I approach challenges—not just in sports but in all areas of life. Now, I focus on the process and celebrate small wins along the way, knowing that persistence will eventually lead to growth and success.

How do you stay motivated during times of stress or when things don’t go as planned?
When I’m stressed or things feel overwhelming, I remind myself of my “why.” Whether it’s my love for sports, my commitment to my education, or my desire to give back, I focus on the bigger picture. I also take short breaks—going for a run, stretching, or even spending a few quiet moments with my thoughts. Those moments of clarity help me reset and refocus on what really matters.

What advice would you give to other students who want to balance school, extracurriculars, and service?
Start by understanding your priorities and setting realistic goals. You don’t have to do everything at once—focus on what’s most important to you and build from there. Staying organized is essential; a planner or calendar can help you keep track of your commitments. Also, don’t forget to make time for yourself. Even on your busiest days, a little self-care goes a long way in keeping you motivated and balanced.

What’s been your proudest moment so far, and why?
One of my proudest moments was organizing a fundraiser for a local animal shelter. Seeing the funds we raised and knowing that it would directly help animals in need was incredibly fulfilling. It showed me that even as a teenager, I could make a difference in my community. It reinforced my belief that every small effort matters and can lead to something meaningful.

What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
I hope to continue growing as a student, athlete, and community member. I also want to keep giving back to my community, whether that’s through volunteering or starting new initiatives. Ultimately, I want to live a life that inspires others to find their own balance and pursue their passions.

Key Takeaways from the Interview:

• Resilience and perseverance are essential for overcoming setbacks and achieving growth.
• Community service is about connection and creating a positive impact, no matter the size of the effort.
• Balance comes from prioritizing, staying organized, and remembering your “why.”

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