During the month of May, The Faces of Woodstock highlights local students, giving them time to shine at the end of their academic year affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. First up, we’d like to introduce you to high school senior, Savannah Little. Savannah has been raised in Woodstock since birth, by her parents John and Katie Little. She is 17 years old and turns 18 in July. Savannah played soccer for over 12 years, just recently ending her career as the goalkeeper for River Ridge High School’s varsity team. Aside from soccer, Savannah has also always had a love for art. After a tough time figuring out what to do with her future, she has decided to pursue a career as a tattoo artist once she graduates this year. Savannah has several tattoos of her own and got her first when she was 16 years old to honor her late friend, Maddi Phillips. Savannah owes her success in the past year to her girlfriend Emilie, who has been supporting her during quite an interesting senior year. She says, “Although things haven’t turned out the way I thought they would, I’m still excited for what the future holds for me and my family.”
Tell us a little bit about your family.
My mom, dad, and my sister are three of the most important people in my life.
How long have you lived in Woodstock?
17 years.
How has your school experience changed since shelter-in-place went into effect? Are there any aspects you like better? What is the hardest part?
School pretty much ended for me when shelter-in-place started, even before that. The only thing I like better is getting to take a break from the stresses that come with school. However, I definitely miss my high school soccer season. I wish I got to finish my final year.
What are your current plans after high school and what inspired you to choose this path?
I want to be a tattoo artist. I have tattoos myself and I’ve always loved art.
Savannah Little with her family.
What is your favorite activity outside of school?
Hanging out with my closest friends and finding cool new spots to hike to.
Who is the most interesting person, teacher, or coach you’ve met here in Woodstock? Why did you choose them?
Mr. Strasser! He was my senior year literature teacher and I could talk to him about anything. He made my senior year a lot easier.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Hawaii. I’ve always wanted to go because it’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It’s almost like Florida but 10x’s better.
Savannah was the goalkeeper for River Ridge High School’s varsity soccer team.
What’s the best advice you ever received from a teacher? Who was the teacher?
I don’t quite remember any advice, but it probably would have been from Mr. Strasser.
If you could choose anyone alive today, and not a relative: with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where, locally, would you meet for lunch?
Chris Brown because he’s my favorite music artist. He’s really artistic like me and I’d love to hear new music he’s making. People look down on him but he’s a great person, artist, and father.
What is your favorite thing or something unique you love about Woodstock?
Downtown Woodstock is a unique place. There are lots of places to eat and shop with friends and family and it’s nice getting to live here. It’s simply a fun community.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself living in a cute apartment with my girlfriend Emilie and my dog Fynn!
Savannah’s first tattoo dedicated to her late friend, Maddi Phillips.
Who/what inspires you to be better?
Definitely my girlfriend. She’s my backbone and she supports me in everything.
If you could go back over your entire school career, what is something you would do differently?
I’d choose to associate myself with different people. I wish I stayed out of high school drama because none of it was ever worth my time.
Who or what do you miss the most right now?
I miss soccer. I wish I got to experience my senior season to its full ability.
What’s the first thing you want to do when this quarantine is over?
I want to go to the beach and enjoy a real vacation.
Emilie, Savannah and Fynn.
What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
Life is meant to be difficult, however, you are meant to be great. Choose the right paths. Associate yourself with loyalty and positivity. Stay out of trouble, but have fun and try new things. Your destiny is as great as you make it out to be.
