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Taking Center Stage with Shawn Roberts II — Faith and family

Roberts II leans on Jesus as guiding light

Shawn Roberts II has packed his high school career with activities, but his driving force has been his faith and family.

Roberts, a senior at Fort Dodge Senior High School, has enjoyed playing in the band, singing and acting, but using his faith as a guiding force has been his power.

“Whether it’s serving at the food pantry or helping out with Vacation Bible School, I am very honored to be a servant just like Jesus,” Roberts said. “It’s rewarding because it’s an opportunity to show God’s love while helping others.

“This is how I remember 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NLT), ‘So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.'”

Roberts has also leaned on his family for support.

“Some of my big influences are my father, mother and brother for their unconditional love and support,” Roberts said.

Being a part of Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been a true love.

“When I first heard that Fort Dodge was allowing the club Fellowship of Christians Athletes (FCA) to be a part of the school, I was ecstatic to be surrounded by individuals who share the same values as me,” Roberts said. “This club meets every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. in the library where we are taught how to be the light and salt in the classroom and on the field.”

Roberts has been involved in marching band, pep band, jazz band, wind ensemble and symphonic band. He has played numerous instruments, including the euphonium and trombone, and recently picked up the baritone saxophone.

“I like the marching band because of the different formations as we perform as one unit,” Roberts said. “I enjoy pep band because I can dance to the upbeat music. Jazz band is enjoyable because I get to play the trombone and showcase my smooth style. During the wind ensemble, I play the baritone Christmas music and classical marches depending on the season. “Last but not least is the symphonic band in which I’m learning how to play the baritone saxophone. My favorite instrument is the euphonium because I have been playing it since sixth grade.”

Being a part of the marching band has become a new family for Roberts, and he has been a choir member to be with his brother.

“Marching band is like a family in a sense, where it requires patience, forgiveness and hard work,” Roberts said. “Everyone has a role and a part to play which makes them important and valuable in obtaining the ultimate goal of performing as one.

“Honestly it (being in choir) was family influenced, mainly my little brother (Simeon), because I wanted to keep him in check and I developed a passion for it.”

Roberts has also been involved in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), which has helped him explore different health careers.

“Health Occupations Students of America — it’s a medical club that’s offered in the high school and allows students to explore different health careers,” Roberts said. “This year we are going to Des Moines to participate in a knowledge/skills base competition against other students who are interested in the health care field.”

Roberts has also participated in athletics as part of Fort Dodge’s soccer team.

“Soccer is my favorite sport because it’s a fast-paced, highly skilled game that requires teamwork and good communication,” Roberts said. “I have enjoyed being a part of the Fort Dodge soccer team because of the long road trips, lasting friendships and the fun memories that were made. “For example, singing “Baby” by Justin Bieber on our way to the game.”

Now in his final year at Fort Dodge, Roberts can’t believe how quickly the time has gone by.

“Being a senior now, I can say that these past four years have flown by,” Roberts said. “Other than singing the Fort Dodge Fight Song at the top of my lungs down the halls on Fridays, I will miss the relationships with teachers and students that I have built.”

Roberts plans on extending his education at Iowa Central Community College.

“I’m looking forward to my new endeavor at Iowa Central Community College,” Roberts said. “Building new relationships and pursuing my education.”

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