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Valedictorian Set For Another Challenge

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By LOIS KINDLE

The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 21, 2008

GIBSONTON - When East Bay High School's commencement takes place May 28, Kristen Zemina will address her classmates and encourage them to make their marks in the world.

Zemina, 18, this year's valedictorian, finished her four years at East Bay with a 6.12 weighted grade-point average.

"We're so proud of her," said Kayzie Weaver, guidance resource specialist. "She's worked so hard and deserves every best wish for her success."

The daughter of John and Cheryl Zemina was born in Tampa and moved to Riverview when she was 5. She entered kindergarten at Summerfield Elementary School and then attended Eisenhower Middle School before going to East Bay. Her brother, Bryan, 21, attends Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Ind.

In addition to her academic honors, which include membership in the National Honor Society, Zemina has been a cheerleader for four years, vice president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and member of the Senior Steering Committee.

She has taken ballet classes since she was 3, dances 20 hours per week at the Dance Center in Brandon and plans to continue dancing throughout college.

In the fall, Zemina will begin her studies in chemistry at the University of Florida, with the goal of becoming a physician. Right now, she thinks she may specialize in cardiology or pathology, but that could change.

"I've always known I wanted to be a doctor," Zemina said. "I really want to help people."

She's excited about going off to Gainesville, where she will room with her best friend, Crystal Zipperer. She said she's always been a Gator fan and thinks UF is the best school in the state.

"I want to be far enough away to be independent but close enough to my family to come home for special occasions," she said.

Zemina credits her parents for the success she has had in school.

"My parents have always guided and encouraged me to try everything I've shown interest in," she said.

"Leaving East Bay is so bittersweet," she continued. "I've loved everything about it. But I'm looking forward to college and the next stage of my life."

GET TO KNOW

WHO: Kristen Zemina

AGE: 18

WHAT: East Bay High School valedictorian

GPA: 6.12

PARENTS: John and Cheryl Zemina

LIVES: Riverview

Reporter Lois Kindle can be reached at (813) 865-1553 or lkindle@tampatrib.com.

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