Q&A with Stillwater’s Jocelynn Swann – Presented by BancFirst Loyal

VYPE: What grade are you in and what clubs or activities are you involved in?

Jocelynn: I am a senior at Stillwater High School. I am one of the Co-Directors of Stillwater Makes A Change (SMAC), the Beta Club Vice president, a member of the varsity cross country and track teams, the National Honor Society, and a dancer on the Showstoppers Dance Team.

VYPE: What are some things that motivate you?

Jocelynn: My faith, beliefs, opportunities, and support from my family and friends all motivate me to work as hard as I can to create a better future for my generation. Serving and helping others is part of what creates the drive and motivation in me to push for the best. 


VYPE: Who are some of the biggest influences or role models in your life?

Jocelynn: My dad is one of my biggest role models, he is very meticulous, thoughtful, and passionate. He inspires me every day to be the best I can be and supports me in all aspects of life. 


VYPE: What teacher has had the biggest impact on your life?

Jocelynn: Heather Mastin, my cross country coach has been one of the most influential people in my high school career. I joined her team only a year ago and at that time I was a new runner who knew very little. She pushed me, encouraged me, and helped me work through challenges. She is personal and cares about each individual student as her own.  As a person and a coach she is truly one of the best. 


VYPE: Who is your favorite person you follow on social media?

Jocelynn: On Instagram, my favorite follows has been The Yellow Runner, Sally Mcrae. She is an ultra-marathon runner and professional athlete who uses her platform as an outlet to encourage people. She has been a role model that represents you can do more than you could ever believe and doing the work always pays off. 


VYPE: What does it take to balance your school work and the activities you are involved in?

Jocelynn: Balancing a busy life is challenging, for me the most important thing I have learned is prioritizing the right things and working hard even when you’re tired. 


VYPE: What does it mean to you to be a leader in your school?

Jocelynn: Being a leader at Stillwater High School has been a great honor and opportunity to serve the students of Stillwater. To me it represents a way to continue greatness and forwardness in my school. Creating a better place for the next generation and continuing the legacy of Stillwater High School. 


VYPE: Any other info that you think would be good to know.

Jocelynn: This year’s opportunity to be SMAC Co-Director is something I have looked at since I was a kid. And now that I get to serve as a director it is such an amazing opportunity. It is a student-led philanthropic organization that raises money for a local beneficiary each year. This year we are working with Payne County Youth Services to build them a kitchen in their youth shelter to foster community and togetherness. I am so excited to work with Kinley and our team this year!