Mollie Gill joined journalism because she wanted to try something new. She credits her 4th-grade teacher Janet Hascall for pushing her to do well. English teacher Brandon Baggett and history teacher Trace Petersen taught her that “high school doesn’t have to be a popularity competition.” They both have helped her “just be yourself and watch who you make your friends.”

Gill has been active in taekwondo for seven years, participating through Sanders ATA Martial Arts in Council Bluffs. She has put in “endless hours” developing her skill, sometimes until 9 or 10 p.m. At this time she wears the rank of 2nd-degree Black Belt. Gill credits taekwondo for teaching her “a lot of integrity and perseverance and loyalty and respect.” She is currently working toward her 3rd-degree black belt and hopes to attend Nationals.