Menomonee Falls student to compete in Scripps National Spelling Bee: "It's nerve-racking!"

MENOMONEE FALLS -- She's the best speller in Wisconsin and she's getting ready to take her talents to the national stage. A Menomonee Falls seventh grader will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee next week.

Veronica Goveas gets straight As. But advanced Algebra class is not her true talent.

"Pharmacognosy" is Veronica's favorite word. The North Middle School seventh grader has been to the Badger State Spelling Bee Championship three times. This year, she placed first -- which means next week she is headed to Maryland for nationals.

"Even though I am used to performing, it is still really nerve-racking," said Veronica Goveas.

Her dad says it is a dream come true -- but does not think Veronica's spelling skills come from him.

Joseph Goveas is Indian. English was not his first language, but it is Veronica's. He says Veronica's love of reading and her school got her this far.

"She'll say 'do you have more words?' We've given her the words from last year, the year before, where else can I go? Are there online things?" said Sue Lee, K-12 enrichment coordinator.

Veronica has always been passionate about the English language but she doesn't want to make a career out of it. Instead, she wants to follow in her dad's footsteps and be a doctor.

"I find science in general really interesting," said Veronica Goveas.

The spelling bee begins Tuesday, May 24th, so she's staying focused.

"Memorization and repetition is my method," said Veronica Goveas.

Veronica is hoping to bring home the $40,000 cash prize and a first place trophy.

If Veronica makes it to the finals, she would compete for the first place title next Thursday, May 26th.