Two students qualify for UIL academic state meet

Ozona—Ozona High School students Sammy Martinez and Grace Upham have qualified for the UIL academic state meet, earning recognition for their performances in two challenging events.

Junior Grace Upham qualified in number sense, while freshman Sammy Martinez advanced in current events and issues. The state competition is scheduled for May 18.

Martinez said he selected current events and issues because it matched his strengths and interests.

“I chose that event because I thought it'd be something I'm good at,” Martinez said. “You have got to remember stuff. I prepare by finding topics online and writing essays about them, and I have Miss Perner print out packets to answer questions and check myself.” 

Upham said she has enjoyed math since elementary school.

“I've been doing numbers since elementary school, and I've just always done it,” Upham said. “You have to be able to do math in your head without writing anything down. [To study] I usually look over a notebook with all the tricks that I have.” 

UIL academics differs from many other extracurricular activities because of the level of independent preparation required. 

“It's different because you really have to focus on your topic, and you have to put time into it because if you don't, you're not going to get it,” Martinez said.

Upham said success often depends on practice completed outside the classroom.

“I feel like it's more self-paced. You have to do it all on your own and practice outside of school,” Upham said.