Bulldog Profile: Sydney Hanson

Maintaining excellence in academics, athletics, and extracurriculars can be very difficult, but sophomore Sydney Hanson would not have it any other way.

At the high school, Hanson takes difficult courses to challenge herself and further her academic journey. Two of her most difficult courses are Honors English 10 and Honors Earth and Space.

Outside of school hours, Hanson is involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), diving, the musicals, and plays the harp.

Starting her Wednesdays with FCA, Hanson grows in her skills of leadership and strengthens her faith. Through her consistent commitment and participation, Hanson is thought of highly by her FCA peers.

“Sydney is a hard-working, caring individual who is passionate about everything that she is involved in,” FCA member Aidan Goerdt said.

Across from the FCA meeting room lies the pool, where Hanson dives with the swim team. Hanson has found great success in the pool, making it to state in her first year.

Although Hanson is well known for her excellence in the pool, arguably her greatest achievement comes in the music department. Hanson is the only student at Bettendorf who plays the harp, an uncommon and old instrument. Her mastery of the harp has been utilized in Bettendorf’s musicals; for example, Hanson’s harp could be heard in the 2018 production “The Sound of Music.”

“Sydney plays the harp with such fluidity. You can tell that she knows what she is doing,” orchestra member Natalie Zanella said.

Her involvement within the school helps Hanson to share her vision for Bettendorf and inspire fellow students.

“I look forward to setting a strong example for future Bulldogs,” Hanson said.