Some students know how to get the most out of school, but Harper Barnhart takes it to a whole different level in the same way she is taking her soccer skills to a whole different level next year. The Woodhaven senior selected Northwood University in Midland based partly on all of those varied high school experiences she has enjoyed over her four years.

“I chose Northwood because the school offers a very good education, and I am very passionate about business and marketing,” she said. “In high school, I have been a part of my school's DECA program (a business and marketing club), where I have seen success during competitions and been very active in helping with the marketing and other business-related events. This has grown my passion, and I know that Northwood will suit this passion.”

Having family on campus also was a factor in her decision.

“My sister, Piper (Woodhaven, Class of 2022), currently goes to Northwood and just finished her senior soccer season, so I have had insight into how much she enjoyed the school and the program as well,” she said.

With still her senior year to play, the attacking midfielder/forward has netted 39 goals along with 22 assists, including a career-high 17 goals last spring, for the Warriors. Her 39 goals are the most by a Woodhaven player over the past three years, and she is a three-time All-District Honors recipient, two time All-Downriver League selection, and was Woodhaven senior recounts high school experiences, looks to future named three times to the All-News Herald second team.

“My three previous years have been very fun and rewarding for me as a player,” she said. “I have seen a lot of success for myself in the attacking end. The team has had highs and lows over the years but my favorite soccer memory with my team was winning districts as a freshman. We start practice in March and I am looking forward to my senior season.”

Barnhart, who started playing soccer when she was just 3 years old, plays club soccer for Detroit City FC (DCFC) West in Canton.

“I enjoy playing club because it puts me in a more competitive environment with players who push me each day to be better,” she said. “I love my club teammates and my coaches, and I have grown a lot as a player there. We have played in a few elite showcases since I have been in high school, which have given me the chance to travel to places like Florida, Chicago and Virginia.”

Barnhart isn’t sitting around waiting for soccer to start. She is busy being the basketball team’s starting point guard, where she has played a key role in helping the Warriors accumulate a 38-3 record in the Downriver League since the 2023-24 school year, including a 9-0 start this year (as of February 1, 2026).

“I have always loved playing basketball,” she said. “It gives me a different look and environment from soccer and has allowed me to grow a lot as an athlete.”

Harper, 17, is the daughter of Matt and Amy Barnhart, and scores a 3.99 GPA in the classroom. Her extensive list of school activities outside of sports includes MHSAA Student Advisory Council, National Honor Society, Student Council, DECA, Unified Sports, Students Against Destructive Decisions/ SADD, Warrior Trade/School Store and Women of Woodhaven.