While some vacationed and tanned until their skin turned a lovely color of bright red this summer, senior Michael Thomas represented North Cobb in the art program at Governor’s Honor Program in Valdosta for four weeks.

“Art is a subject that I enjoy and like to do. It’s a good way to express yourself,” Thomas said. With numerous trophies and medals for his artwork, it is no surprise that the State chose him as an art major for such a rigorous program.

“It’s not easy to get into GHP, you have to show versatility. You have to be different, and you need to have a good portfolio. At the interviews, you basically have to sell yourself pretty well.” Thomas said. He competed with art students all over Georgia to earn his major.

GHP allowed students to select a major and a minor. Michael majored in art, as expected, but his minor proved surprising.

“My major was art and my minor was fitness. My art teacher told me that I should make my minor something that interests me or that I don’t have much knowledge on it. And I liked it, it was very fun,” Thomas said.

Several warriors applied for the GHP program; however, few were selected. Thomas represented North Cobb in prestigious fashion, making everyone proud.

“It was nice to represent North Cobb. A few North Cobb students were chosen, but none that majored in art.” Thomas said about representing the Warrior nation.

GHP consists of students from all over Georgia who possess extra eagerness to learn. The month-long program provided learning about a major and minor while also bonding with other GHP attendees.

“One of my favorite parts about GHP were the people. They were great. I got along well with them, even though I wasn’t the typical artist. I also had a lot of fun sculpting, it was one of my favorite parts about my major,” Thomas said.