Elizabeth Vu, an Austin High School senior, was chosen as this month’s Noon Kiwanis Student of the Month.

Vu has been a member of the Kiwanis Key Club, an organization that provides students with opportunities to serve, build character and develop leadership, since her sophomore year. She was recently selected as the recipient of a $1,000 scholarship by the Minnesota-Dakotas District of Kiwanis International, which partially funded by the Austin Kiwanis Club.

“While attending Austin High School, I have taken a wide variety of classes, many of which have been AP/Honors/Accelerated classes,” Vu said. “In taking these courses, it has both prepared and challenged me in many ways.”

Aside from her academic achievements, Vu has been heavily involved in clubs such as orchestra, science olympiad, knowledge bowl, Link Crew, tennis and Kiwanis Key Club. She has also volunteered at the Mower County Humane Society and her church.

For post-secondary plans, Vu is planning to attend the University of Minnesota and pursue a biology degree so that she can enter the medical field.

For inspiration, Vu turns to her older sister as a mentor and role model.

“Throughout my life, I have always looked up to my older sister,” she said. “We have always been close. She has definitely played a huge role in who I am today. Through both positive and negative experiences, her character has definitely influenced me, in more ways than I can even count.”