Click here to read Gerty’s review of The Shallows
——————————-
Worldly, Curious, Accomplished: Gerty.
By Mikala Whitaker
She does random Google searching at 3 a.m. She enjoys losing herself in the foreign countries where she has been lucky enough to visit. A true adventurer, Gertrude “Gerty” Joseph uses her curiosity to take her far beyond the average high school student.
“For whatever reason I feel like I have no fear,” said Gerty.
In spite of a lack of writing opportunities in her school, Springfield Central High School, Gerty has found other opportunities. In Springfield, Mass., she writes for her local newspaper, the Republican. Gerty, 17, also works as a contributor for The Huffington Post.
“I was already [writing] on a local level, so I figured I’d do it at a national level,” said Gerty. “Why not?”
This fearless explorer wants to be involved in more than just national affairs. She wants to travel the world before she turns 30.
“I want to grace every continent. I just really want to see the world. I think journalism is the best vehicle for that,” said Gerty.
Gerty’s love for traveling and writing drew her to the field of journalism. Eventually, she hopes to become an investigative journalist for CNN or Frontline.
Her brother, a student at Amherst College, greatly influenced her because he frequently watches the news. He also encouraged her to write for The Huffington Post.
“He was a catalyst in a way,” said Gerty.
Like her brother, Gerty also enjoys helping and encouraging others to be their best. She is a mentor for elementary students and tutors other students in her high school.
“If I can offer my services to help others believe in themselves, then I’m all for that,” said Gerty.
Gerty would not have had these same opportunities if she had not changed schools. Although moving from Christian to public school proved a challenge, Gerty’s adventurous nature helped her overcome it and make her the person she is today.
“I’ve made some mistakes, but I don’t think I regret anything. All those things have shaped me. I’m so glad I’ve had a part in that [helping others],” said Gerty.
Her adventurous side has helped her to connect with people she may not have connected with otherwise. While in Italy, Gerty spent a lot of time with people who she did not originally connect with. However, Gerty later found connections and grew close to many of them.
“At 12 o’clock at night, the group and I had this idea to go to the beach,” said Gerty. “We never ended up at the beach. We just spent five hours getting lost in Sorrento, Italy.
With her adventurous spirit, Gerty wants to do more than travel. She longs to experience different parts of the country while staying true to her New England roots.
“[In fourth-grade] I did a project on North Carolina, and ever since then, I’ve pictured myself going to either UNC or Duke,” said Gerty.
“I love going to new areas and not knowing what’s going to happen. Adventure is in my bones; it’s in my DNA.”