This week we Take Five with Samantha Czulada, a gymnast for the Highlanders who is really proud to represent her school and her community. She's inspired by her mom and has been on Broadway in a major production. Be sure to go to our Web site, westmilfordmessenger.com, for our bonus five with Samantha.
1) 1) How did you get involved with gymnastics?
I joined the gymnastics team my junior year of high school, but unfortunately I could not compete because I broke my ankle during the summer. This season, I am fortunate enough to compete on floor and I absolutely love it. I have been dancing since I was about two and half and have also taken acro/tumbling classes throughout my years of dance. It has always been an interest of mine to be involved with gymnastics and I am so glad I have been able to be a part of such a phenomenal team.
2) Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is by far my mom, Colleen Czulada. She is the hardest working, most dedicated and accepting woman out there. I know that I can go to her for advice about everything and anything and she will never let me down, which I am so grateful for. My mom is the strongest woman I know and not only is she my mom, but she is my best friend.
3) Who is your favorite teacher of all time and why?
My favorite teacher of all time would have to be Ms. Gennett. I had her for geometry my sophomore year and I loved every moment of her class. She taught me the material so well and I also connected with her really well on a personal level.
4) What does being a Highlander mean to you?
Being a Highlander to me means being proud of the school I go to. I absolutely love getting involved in the high school and attending sporting events because at West Milford High School we have such a supportive group of people that are all proud of where they come from. I also love knowing that I have made friends for a lifetime through being a Highlander.
5) Share something no one knows about you.
I was fortunate enough to be an original Broadway cast member in Billy Elliot the Musical. My role in the show was a swing, meaning I had to know 10 different roles and be prepared to perform any of those roles at any given time.
Acting on Broadway - what an accomplishment Samantha. Having such a wonderful role model like your mom is a huge benefit for you. We're sure she appreciates all you do too. Do you know someone who should be featured here at Take Five? Let us know! Drop us a line at njoffice@strausnews.com and tell us who and why. We want to feature all of the great kids here in Highlander country.
Bonus Five
6) What would most people be surprised to know about gymnastics?
Many people may not know that a dance move can count as much as an extremely difficult tumbling pass in a floor routine.
7) Name three things you would bring with you if you were on a deserted island.
If I were to be on a deserted island I would bring my phone because let’s be real here - we live in the 21st century. I would also bring my nook to keep myself occupied and lastly, gum because I cannot go a day without chewing gum!
8) Share a favorite moment with your group/club/team.
My favorite moment with the gymnastics team would have to be when we had to evacuate the school in the middle of a dual meet because of a small fire last year. It was probably one of the most fun moments because the whole team was outside of the school in the cold, but of course we found ways to enjoy our time and make it memorable. Not only was it an extremely fun and late night but we also scored our highest score all season at that meet.
9) What is your favorite movie, book or character and why?
My favorite movie would have to be 500 Days of Summer because I just love the storyline of it, it captivates me every time I watch it. Also, I just love Joseph Gordon Levitt and his acting ability!
10) What do you do with your time when you are not doing gymnastics?
When I am not at gymnastics practice or we are out of season I like to dance, sing, run, read, spend time with my family and friends, travel, bake and go on unexpected adventures.