Whether she’s hitting the books or pounding the pavement, Handley High School's Jeanette Mathieu seems to find success. So how is this 17 year old seemingly good at just about everything she does. One word-intensity.

"When I practice piano for example or run I may not necessarily have alot of time to do it, but I do it with alot of intensity to make the time count," said Mathieu.

In addition to her gifts in the classroom and as a runner, Mathieu is an accomplished musician. She's played the piano for the past 12 years, and though most people may not see it, Jeanette says there are some pretty important similarities between playing the piano and running a race.

"In both of them you have to have alot of mental stability and stamina, believe it or not. In a piano recital you have to be mentally focused, and I find it's the same way if you're running a race or playing a tennis match or even if you're taking a large test or exam like the SAT's," said Mathieu.

Mathieu relishes her role as a leader on the Judges cross country team, helping younger teammates get better while setting an example that anyone would do well to follow.

"It's important that they also feel like they can look up to someone and see how that other person has gone through their high school career and has been able to do athletics and academics together," said Mathieu.

"Her dedication sets an example for others to follow because she sets a standard for others to try to measure up to," said Handley Cross Country Coach Mike McKiernan.

Congratulations to Handley High School's Jeanette Mathieu TV3 Winchester's Student Athlete of the Week.