Whiz Kid of the Week: Sophia Oddi

Each week San Marino Patch names a Whiz Kid of the Week. This can be a kid, teen, sports team, Girl Scout troop, etc. from San Marino who is amazing in some way.

We are asking for your nominations for Whiz Kid of the Week, so suggest a special San Marino kid, teen or youth group in the comment box below! Read more about nominations .

This week's San Marino Whiz Kid is Sophia Oddi. Since the age of three, Sophia has been dancing and expressing her artistic elements with a modest passion. Sophia's parents are John and Shauna Barger who are a lawyer/entrepreneur and choreographer respectively. She also has a brother named Christ Oddi who is a sophmore at . Sophia has said that she would like to pursue a career in dance or business.

• Whiz Kid’s Name: Sophia Oddi
• Whiz Kid’s Age: 14
• Whiz Kid’s School: Los Angeles County High School of Arts
• Whiz Kid’s Accomplishment: Sophia has been dancing since she was three years of age and has won two international dance competitions. She has also performed various shows in a number of venues. Sophia was born in Rome, Italy and lived in France for 10 years so it is only natural that she has experienced a wide variety of culture. Among English, Sophia can also speak Italian and French.
• Whiz Kid’s Key to Awesomeness: The key to Sophia’s awesomeness is not only her perceptive and receptive appreciation for art, but the overwhelming passion for her craft.  Even from an early age, Sophia composed songs, created innovative dance routines and explored the interplay of dance and music within her artistic expression.
  
  What truly sets Sophia apart goes beyond her artistic aptitude, but into the drive and dedication that she applies to every facet of her life. She motivates herself to get up for “zero period” to attend school choir, strives to constantly self-improve her dance and musical performance, and disciplines herself to stay focused regardless of the situation.
  
  Talents aside, however, the aspect I find most admirable about this bright young teenager is the humility she shows despite her success as well as the compassion and concern she displays for her friends, family, and even new acquaintances. She routinely puts the needs of others before her own and is the type of individual who is willing to go out of her way to help those she cares about. Between her talent, excellent personality and work ethic and compassionate heart, Sophia is an authentically amazing person who is bound for great things.

Bonus Whiz Kid Info:

Favorite food: Sushi

Last Book Read for Pleasure: The Art of Racing in the Rain

If you had power to change one thing and make the world a better place, what would that be?: I would strive to create a world without gossip.