The student: Lauren Grove, 16

School: Mount Hebron High

Special achievement: Lauren was one of 400 students nationwide selected for a National Youth Leadership Forum on Defense, Intelligence and Diplomacy, held Oct. 22-27 in Washington. During the six-day program, she participated in sem- inars with government leaders involved in international relations.

What was it like? "I had an amazing time. We were going pretty much all day, from about 6:30 in the morning until about a quarter to 11 at night."

What was the best part? "I attended a short seminar with a small group of people on intelligence, and that was really interesting."

Career goals: Lauren is interested in government, but she says it is too soon to choose a career track. However, she said, "My eyes were opened to many new options in the government."

Other activities: Lauren plays saxophone in two high school music groups, the Symphonic Winds and the Marching Unit. She also runs track, serves on the class board and is a member of the Viking Service Club, which does community service. In addition, she is active with her church, Glen Mar United Methodist.