Kyla Borders has pursued a variety of disciplines while she’s been in high school, and she’s distinguished herself in the sciences. She said a major highlight was when she presented a scientific research paper at international conferences that scientists, researchers and students attended.

With the help of her mother, a science teacher, Borders researched the number and frequency of novae in the Andromeda Galaxy. She presented the findings in Boston, Washington, D.C., Italy and Germany. She also was the first high-school recipient of the Chambliss honorable mention award.

Borders plans to follow her interest in science in college, where she plans to study biology. She eventually wants to become an emergency room doctor.

“I didn’t want to have a desk job,” Borders said. “I’ve always been interested in medicine and in helping people.”

Borders has participated in several sports but enjoyed golf the most. She first got involved at Canterwood Golf & Country Club, and she’s been on the Peninsula High School team for two years and. Currently, she’s a co-captain.

“Kyla is an extremely busy and involved individual who has displayed to me an incredible work ethic in her golf participation and exceptional leadership skills as a participant and captain of the golf team,” said Jim Gillies, a PGA golf pro at Canterwood and a golf coach for PHS. “The other team members, especially the younger ones, follow her because of the example that she sets and her pleasant and encouraging demeanor.”

As the ASB president, Borders has focused much of her time on trying to unite the student body and increasing participation by making everyone feel important.

“Kyla is motivated to help make her school a positive and welcoming environment for all students,” said ASB adviser Danielle O’Leary, a PHS English teacher. “She is innovative with her ideas, she doesn’t procrastinate, and she puts her ideas into action.”

Borders’ volunteer commitments have included the Salvation Army, S.A.V.E. Thrift Store, Interact Club, Honor Society and KPMS Family Night. She was co-president of Winterfest, a major fundraiser for the school.

“She understands that serving her community is not only about helping others but also building her own character,” O’Leary said.

Borders also has maintained a high emphasis on academics, doing extra work when needed, to better understand material. She’s taken nine AP and honors courses.

“I’ve always worked at challenging myself,” she said. “I’m really competitive, and I want to be at the top.”