Malachi Wilson (11) is a junior at Gig Harbor High School and a devoted athlete, part-time Tacoma Community College (TCC) student, and active community volunteer. Recently hired for his first job, Wilson enjoys bringing smiles to people’s faces with his humor.
As a junior, Wilson is maximizing the benefits of the part-time Running Start program at Tacoma Community College, where he is striving toward earning his associate’s degree. He balances this commitment with a few classes at the high school while traveling to Tacoma for college courses. He values this opportunity for free college and aims to make the most of it. By optimizing his schedule, Wilson has more time to be productive, complete his schoolwork, and still enjoy gaming with friends. “The benefits of Running Start are that by the time I graduate high school, I can earn my AA degree, which saves money on college and reduces my overall class load. It also improves my work ethic, time management, and organizational skills,” Wilson explained.
Wilson has been a multi-sport athlete since childhood, competing in basketball, soccer, baseball, and wrestling before dedicating himself fully to soccer. As a talented goalkeeper, he has thrived in this position and cherishes every moment on the field. Currently, Wilson plays for Harbor Premier, his club team, and represents the school’s varsity soccer team. With a couple of years remaining in high school, he is determined to continue proving himself and building his reputation. “My favorite part of being a keeper is the thrill and adrenaline of making saves and being the backbone of my team,” Wilson shared.
In addition to his athletic prowess, Wilson is also musically gifted, having played the drums for many years. Coming from a musically inclined family, he follows in the footsteps of relatives who are also active in music. Wilson plays drums twice a month at his church in Gig Harbor, using his talents to help lead worship for the congregation. “When playing the drums, I get to share my gifts and talents that God gave me to help others worship,” Wilson stated. He appreciates the supportive community he serves and feels honored to lead in areas where others may not be able to contribute.
Wilson recently started his first job at Kimball’s Hands-On Detailing, where he cleans and details cars. He is eager to learn valuable skills for the workforce and gain insights into what it means to be a dedicated employee. “With my new job,” Wilson remarked, “I hope to learn various aspects of working and professional life, as well as acquire a trade that could be useful in future careers and job opportunities.”
After graduation, Wilson plans to attend college and major in either Christian ministry or a field related to supporting children and teenagers with special needs in schools. He is embracing his current journey, remaining committed to his goals, and preparing for what lies ahead as he begins to envision the next chapter of his life.