My name is Samad Zair Pridgen, and I’m a junior at the Greater Nanticoke Area High School. I moved to Nanticoke in the 6th grade, and it was a culture shock entering the middle school from my old elementary school, but thanks to the accommodating and welcoming staff, I acclimated quickly. I play on our varsity football team, I march with our band, and I’m hoping to do volleyball when the boys’ season starts. I enjoy the extracurriculars here at Nanticoke, and I believe every sport or activity should be supported. Outside of school, I enjoy reading and volunteering. I host games at the Mill Memorial Library on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings. I also enjoy spending time with my friends, finding time to play video games or hanging out with them. I’ve also begun to bake more, it’s something I did a lot when I was younger and I’m happy to be returning to it. After I graduate from GNA in 2026, I plan to attend Moravian University to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, and after that, I hope to return to the district and educate students on music. I also hope to eventually become a band director for Nanticoke if the position becomes available.