Student teaches swimming to fund college program

Sisters High School junior Joseph Schlatter has been accepted to attend a three-week pre-college summer academy at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. To earn money for his endeavor, Schlatter, a certified swimming instructor, will teach spring swimming lessons at Sisters Athletic

Club.

"It is a privilege to be accepted to this prestigious program," Schlatter said. "I am very glad to have the opportunity to experience a highly regarded university."

Schlatter has been swimming for more than five years and has earned varsity letters on the high school swim team. He has experience teaching swimming lessons to young people at a variety of skill

levels.

"I am excited to help more young swimmers that are just beginning or need advanced skills," he said. "Spring is a great time to take lessons and get ready for summer fun." Individual or group lessons can be scheduled by calling Sisters Athletic Club at 541-549-6878 and requesting lessons with Schlatter.

Schlatter will study a course at Vanderbilt in world religions, with the goal to better understand people of different faiths. He expects the class will be a vital tool personally and professionally, especially with society's increasingly global interactions. The 4.1-GPA student expects to enhance his critical-

thinking abilities within a rigorous academic environment.

"My career interests include research on emerging technologies such as brain-computer interfaces," he said. "I plan to earn a degree in neuroscience to eventually apply my knowledge in designing technologies that will cure blindness. Vanderbilt offers a premier neuroscience program, and my time there this summer will offer opportunities to explore and prepare for college in 2011."

Schlatter has also sought sponsorships from local service organizations. "I am very thankful for the support of the Lions Club of Sisters," he said. "They responded quickly to my request and are big believers in the vision needs of people around the world."

The program and travel costs are about $4,000. He has raised more than half of that already, much of it from working the past few years.

"I plan to continue earning money providing swim lessons and also hope to generate other local support that will help make my summer goal a reality," he said.