09/14/2026
🌟 Saints on the Rise Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Talia Strong, a 12th-grade virtual student whose determination, discipline, and commitment to her future truly exemplify what it means to be a Saint on the Rise.
In her free time, Talia enjoys crocheting, spending time with her family, and playing softball and volleyball for Selma High School. She shares an especially close relationship with her six-year-old brother, whom she affectionately describes as her “twin,” despite their ten-year age difference.
Talia’s favorite area of study is mathematics because she enjoys solving problems and applying formulas. She values the flexibility of virtual learning, which allows her to balance her education with work, athletics, family responsibilities, and preparations for her future.
Currently participating in the United States Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, Talia is preparing to serve her country while also pursuing her academic goals. She is working toward earning her associate degree from Wallace Community College and plans to become an aerospace engineer. Within the next five years, she envisions herself having completed her undergraduate degree, continuing her education, and proudly serving her country.
Talia credits her parents as her greatest sources of inspiration and support. She admires their strong work ethic and hopes to follow their example. Their encouragement continually reminds her to remain focused on the goals she is working to achieve.
A quote that encourages Talia is, “Everything is temporary.” It reminds her that difficult seasons will not last forever and that life’s challenges help us appreciate its blessings. As she explains, without the rain, we would not fully appreciate the sunshine.
Her advice to other students is: “Do not quit. Things will get hard, and life is hard, but anything worth having is worth fighting for.”
Talia is determined to be successful, make her family proud, further her education, and serve her country. We are honored to recognize Talia Strong as one of our Saints on the Rise! 💙💛 Selma City Schools
