May 2001

  George Mason High School 

Lasso - OnLine - Features

LINKS
Current Edition
Archive Index

15 MINUTES OF FAME

By Julia Bradshaw

Next year’s SCA President, Mikhail Samsonov, known to most as Misha, can be seen roaming the hallways in a suit and tie every day (baggy pants and long shirts are not his style). After being elected by his peers as President, Misha feels that he want everybody in the school to know who he is: Mr. President. Misha came from St. Petersburg, Russia four years ago, and became interested in the SCA in his sophomore year. As a TA representative, he worked hard and attended SCA meetings weekly, something that most TA reps can’t boast. Junior year, Misha became secretary of the SCA, becoming the first in Mason history to create a written agenda, in addition to starting two clubs: ATM and Ballroom Dancing. This year he has achieved one of his most sought after goals: President of the George Mason SCA.

One of the most interesting things about Misha is his nationality. Coming from Russia, he is able to compare the two school systems, and feels that moving to this country has affected his education in a positive way.

"In Russia, just like all other immigrants would say, there is no future for students like me. But this country has all possible ways to success. I’ve seen it from the first second I stepped out of the plane," said Misha. Indeed, Misha does have a special drive for success. 

"I always knew I would make it to the top. Becoming a president for such a short period of time is a really big milestone in my life but it isn’t the end. I am planning to go even higher, no matter what the circumstances are," said Mr. President.

Being an SCA officer takes much time and dedication, two things which Misha has acquired over the years. Besides the SCA, Misha has been involved in the Chess and International clubs. This year he boasts being in the top three of the chess ladder. With a GPA of 3.5 and a tough schedule next year, consisting of IB Math Methods, IBH II Computer Science, and World History, among several other classes, Misha will have to balance being SCA President, his clubs, schoolwork, and of course his social life. However, Misha is not going to let anything take time away from his job as El Presidente.

"Next year I am going to work hard in coordinating student activities effectively for you," said Misha.