This is the second story in Lancer Media’s 2015 Summer Series: Most Likely to…

These feature stories highlight rising seniors who are becoming role models of Lancer Spirit.

From heartfelt John Green novels to dystopian epics by Suzanne Collins, there are many young adult novels to spark a teen’s imagination. More recently, very few authors stray from the path of tales about dystopian, steampunk societies and heart-breakingly romantic stories of love and loss. Class of 2016 member Ryan Stark hopes to break the mold, providing the next generation with quality content to strengthen their minds.

Since his youth, Stark has had the goal of becoming an author. He has spent countless hours reading and writing throughout his life, honing his literary skills. Stark finds inspiration in authors such as Kurt Vonnegut, F. Scott Fitzgerald. and Mark Twain. Once an author, Stark hopes to live in the traditional literary hothouse of New York City.

After a day at school, if he isn’t working a shift at the library, you might find Ryan at mock trial, meeting with the English or Spanish Honor Society, studying to maintain his 4.0 GPA, or journaling. He is the newly-elected president of the English Honor Society, taking office after Isabella Marcellino, former president, graduated.

“He’s a model student. I couldn’t ask for a better student when it comes to participation,” said AP United States History teacher James Hines.

In addition to literature, Stark loves listening to music. Modest Mouse and Neutral Milk Hotel are two of his favorites, but he has an eclectic taste in music, ranging from pop to emo to indie rock. As far as playing music goes, he dabbles in bass, but hasn’t mastered the instrument.

Nearing the end of his high school career, Stark stresses the importance of maintaining calm and focused. “High school is really just a continuation of middle school, only in a different building,” Stark reminds underclassmen.