High school senior Eric White checks on his Advanced Placement art portfolio May 23 in the hallway of Rangeley Lakes Regional School in Rangeley. White plans to continue his education at Berklee College of Music in Boston to concentrate on music performance. Daryn Slover/Sun Journal
RANGELEY — Rangeley Lakes Regional School senior Eric White, 17, is one of the most notable music and theater talents, music teacher Erin Smith has had come across her stage.
He was selected to be profiled by Principal Seth Laliberte.
“Eric stands out as one of the most gifted music and theater students I’ve ever had the honor of teaching,” Smith said. He is committed to his craft, memorizing lines, songs and choreography, and punctual to every rehearsal, she said.
His gifts extend from the stage to the classroom, with strong academics and leadership skills to boot.
Attending a school with 200 students from prekindergarten to grade 12 is a unique experience, which White said he is glad about because it allowed him to form tight bonds with his high school teachers. It allowed his experience to be individualized.
Best part of each day?
The best part of each day was finding time to hide in the music room. Most of my days were spent hiding in there and playing all the different instruments or just talking with the music teacher. I’ve taken away so many different lessons from that time spent alone.
Worst part of each day?
Eric White builds a rat May 23 in his art class at Rangeley Lakes Regional School in Rangeley. The rat plans to be fixed to the top of White’s graduation cap. “I have a bunch of rats at home,” he said. “They are one of the sweetest animals that you will ever meet.” Daryn Slover/Sun Journal
As much as I love science class, that was always the most draining part of the day. This year, I took two science classes that I had interests in chemistry and anatomy and physiology. While both topics were amazing to hear about, the classes were often note-heavy.
Favorite class or subject? Why?
Anything music-related has been my favorite subject throughout the entirety of my high school career. That was my way of finding myself again and figuring out something that I truly enjoyed doing.
Favorite teacher or school staff member? Why?
My favorite teacher is Erin Smith, the music teacher. I found myself through music and with her help, and I would not be the person I am today without her pushing me through the rough times. My love for music started in the sixth grade when I participated in the school musical and Erin helped to cater that love.
What was the hardest part of high school and how did you find your way through it?
The hardest part of high school was finding myself. After the pandemic, I lost my connection to others and had to regain the social abilities lost within those two years. I learned that through music and participating in theater, as I had before the pandemic, I could connect with people without having one-on-one conversations, but also form bonds with the people who shared the same interest.
How do you think you’ll be remembered by the members of your class?
I think the members of my class would remember me for the countless musicals and music festivals I’ve been in. If not that, then probably because of my immaculate love for any type of animal, rodents and dogs especially.
Rangeley Lakes Regional School senior Eric White, right, and classmate Alex Hathaway chat May 23 with their teacher, Sonja Johnson, during art class in Rangeley. White plans to continue his education at Berklee College of Music in Boston to concentrate on music performance. Daryn Slover/Sun Journal
Something you wish teachers and administrators understood about students today?
Students learn differently. As someone who has struggled with focus and auditory processing, learning can be difficult when teachers all have different ways of going about their lessons. It can be hard to adjust to the different techniques to thrive in each class.
Advice to all those eighth graders entering high school next year?
High school is not as scary as it sounds. Let yourself make mistakes. Improvement is made through mistakes and reaching your dreams will not happen if you allow yourself to stay stuck with what you know.
What is next for you after graduation?
I plan to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston. My goal is to improve my vocal abilities and possibly learn some more instruments in the process. I cannot wait to step out of my comfort zone and meet people who share my passion for music. I will also be participating in the Rangeley Friends of the Arts’ summer production of “Newsies” as Jack Kelly, a dream role.
This is the 14th article in a series featuring a high school senior, chosen by their principal, from each of the 18 high schools in the Sun Journal’s coverage area.
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