Lycoming Valley Teen of the Week: Megan Radspinner

WILLIAMSPORT — Growing up in a musical family, it was only natural that Megan Radspinner would develop a love of song at an early age.

A Williamsport Area High School senior, Radspinner has been selected as Lycoming Valley Teen of the Week.

"Both of my parents are orchestra teachers," Radspinner said. "I'm very grateful for that. It's given me a lot of great opportunities."

She is the daughter of Matthew and Anna Radspinner.

While Megan has been playing violin for 14 years, her main instrument is the viola.

"I also sing a lot," Radspinner said. "I sing in my school choir. I sing in an acappella group."

She has also sung with the Williamsport Chamber Choir and Orchestra.

In addition, Radspinner volunteers at a summer string camp operated by her parents, for students in grades four through eight.

"I teach there," Radspinner said, of her responsibilities at the camp. "I'm a viola teacher. It's one of the best experiences of my life.


"I love working with students," she continued. "I feel as if I'm making a positive influence on their life."


It's a bit difficult for Radspinner to put into words just how much music means to her.


"I love music," she said. "Music has given me such a great outlet to express myself. It has provided me with a good community of people.


"I can't imagine my life without it. I've been doing this since I was 4."


At her high school, Radspinner is also president of the Model UN club. She has been involved with it since 10th grade.


In the club, Radspinner said participants discuss resolutions which could be passed by various countries.


"We go to a convention with a bunch of other schools," she explained. "We debate these topics."


After graduation, Radspinner plans to major in communications — with a focus on journalism and digital content — at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove.


"I've always loved to write, as a child," Radspinner said, while discussing what spurred her future career direction.


"I love to talk to people," she continued. "I was on my school's yearbook staff. I like to write that."


Radspinner also plans to be involved with the music program at Susquehanna, and noted she previously worked with the university's choir director while participating in a regional choral event.


In high school, Radspinner's favorite subject is history. She has been inspired by her history teacher, Craig Niklaus.


"Mr. Niklaus is one of my favorite teachers," Radspinner said. "He gave me this newfound love of history.


"It's fascinating to see the mistakes that were made (in the past), and how we can apply it to our future."