Presidential Scholars  2004

Records 1 through 50 out of 141

	Ronald K. Anguas Cooper City, FL Dade Christian School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Ronald is a young man who is always seeking out new and challenging experiences. While maintaining academic excellence, he manages to stay involved in music, school clubs, and service organizations within his community. As a fifth-year percussion ensemble member, Ronald has won state-level awards on classical percussion instruments and been named to the Southern Florida Regional Honor Band three years in a row. He has also excelled in the nationally recognized Future Business Leaders of America organization. As District Vice President, Ronald successfully organized activities for over 1,000 members in South Florida while at the same time managing to place 2nd in the state in the club’s Emerging Business Issues competition. Over the last two summers, he has participated in internship programs with U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and U.S. Congressman Peter Deutsch. After completing his undergraduate education, Ronald plans to earn both law and business degrees.
	Vera L. Arias Miami, FL New World School of the Arts College/College Plans: The School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston   Vera is a very talented artist, academically gifted, and an accomplished musician. She is a sensitive, compassionate,and considerate young woman. Her record of community service includes day care, cancer walks, AIDS walks, beach clean-ups, and many mural projects throughout Miami-Dade County. She is Historian of the National Spanish Honor Society and embraces her Hispanic culture by donating goods to needy countries. She is extremely self-disciplined and works hard to understand criticism. Her creativity and dedication are outstanding. Her sketchbooks reflect this personal vision and are some of her finest examples of artistic exploration.
	Erin A. Baggott Manchester, ME Phillips Exeter Academy College/College Plans: Harvard College   I am currently a four-year senior at Phillips Exeter Academy. At Exeter I have become interested in economics, history and Chinese, specifically in the economies of developing Asian countries. During my time at Exeter, I’ve won seven course prizes, have been on highest honors since freshman fall, and was nominated for Early Cum Laude. Writing is one of my great passions, and last year I was one of two students selected by the English Department to attend Middlebury’s Breadloaf Young Writer’s Conference, and also was published for poetry. This term I am writing a novella as a senior project. Combining my passions for writing and Chinese, two years ago I founded Silk Road, a Chinese-English bilingual magazine, with which I continue to work. Athletically, I have rowed for four years, and enjoyed Taekwondo during the summers. I have played piano for ten years and have performed in student concerts.
	Megan L. Baxter Hanover, NH Interlochen Arts Academy College/College Plans: Marlboro College   My name is Megan Baxter. I was born in the "live free or die" state, New Hampshire, in Hanover, the town where Dartmouth is a "voice crying alone in the wilderness." It is hardly a wilderness anymore after nearly three hundred years of human habitation, but the second growth forests are thick and all streams run to the Connecticut like veins to a heart. I attend school in another recovering ecosystem-- northern Michigan where the white pines were hauled out in Hemingway's time. The few tall pines that are left on Interlochen's campus are the victims of lightning and windstorms. After a year off, during which I plan on getting my hands dirty on a farm and perhaps traveling overseas to work with an environmental research team, I will attend Marlboro College in Vermont.
	Adam C. Berg Wasilla, AK Colony High School   Most people describe his constant smile, his positive outlook and self-motivation, his never hesitating to share ideas and knowledge or to lend a hand. At his core, Adam is a veritable learning sponge, forever thirsty for fresh knowledge and experiences. While he possesses a stellar academic record, with a special propensity for mathematics and science, he has pursued numerous interests outside the classroom. He loves to play the piano and saxophone in the many symphonic and jazz groups around his school and community. As an astronomy buff, he volunteers time at a local astronomical observatory. He also organized a bicycle donation drive for children in need. Not discounting the inherent benefits of living in Alaska, Adam enjoys hiking, biking, rock-climbing, and iceclimbing in the unique and sublime beauty of the mountains that surround his home.
	Jonathan P. Berger Haddonfield, NJ Haddonfield Memorial High School College/College Plans: Stevens Institute of Technology   At the age of one and a half, I moved from Philadelphia to the town of Haddonfield. Around this time, I first encountered a strange beast known as the computer. Despite some early skittishness around the beast, I soon became fascinated with computers, so much so that I plan to major in Computer Science in college. In school, I especially enjoyed Math and Science courses. Many people who are skillful in Math also have musical talent. Unfortunately, I am not one of them. In fact, my singing is often compared to the dulcet tones of a dying walrus. I found my artistic outlet instead in the Drama Club in both Middle School and High School. There, I have had roles in such plays – and musicals, astoundingly enough – as “Guys and Dolls,” “The Crucible,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” and “Spoon River Anthology.”
	Meghan A. Bhave Scottsdale, AZ Desert Mountain High School College/College Plans: Northwestern University’s Honors Program in Medical Education   “Shoot for the moon; even if you miss, you will land among the stars” -- Les Brown. This quote not only describes my personal characteristics, but has also provided structure for my life. A commitment to excellence has become my moon, with opportunities for self-growth and leadership as my stars. From these opportunities I have explored my passion for cultural diversity, serving my community, and simply being myself. I am an avid fan of outdoor activities: tennis, volleyball, hiking, and Indian folk dancing. My strong desire to integrate my creativity with my learned knowledge is reflected through research I have engaged in at Mayo Clinic and a student position in Mayo’s Patient Financial Services. I am an active dreamer and achiever, motivator and participant, leader and team player with a commitment to my community and myself. My ‘moon’ therefore continues to shine brightly, as does my resolve to reach the ‘stars’ of wisdom and social contribution.
	Emily M. Bogue Colchester, VT Home School College/College Plans: Wellesley College   I am governed by a desire to fully acquaint myself with the world. I have made every effort to avoid the sheltered, insular world of Vermont high school, striving instead to immerse myself in a community that transcends age and geographical boundaries. I need the intellectual stimulation of college classes, the global possibilities of the Internet, the indispensable cultural education of foreign travel, the creative outlet of improvisation, the economic responsibility of regular employment. I need a good debate, a chance to test my beliefs and question my convictions, an opportunity to learn something new about myself. I need to live life on a scale larger than football games, study halls, proms, and AP classes. I need to refuse the hypnotizing ease of wandering passively through an education, and defy institutional gravity.
	Katherine E. Booth Lake Mary, FL Lake Mary High School College/College Plans: Yale University   I am a 4'11" polar explorer. I spent five days in a tent on the North Pole eating nothing but Ramen noodles and Oreos. Adventure of any sort calls to me; during the 100th Anniversary of the Wright Brothers' flight, I made the first tandem skydive into the Kitty Hawk Memorial. High school, however, is the greatest adventure of all. Despite the length of my stride, I am Captain of the Varsity Cross Country and Track Teams. Contributing to the school literary magazine, I write satirical plays about gender stereotypes. As Vice President of the Astronomy Club, I came up with this year's slogan: "Lake Mary Astronomy… Because you won't find intelligent life on earth." Although this philosophy would suggest a career as a leggy fashion model, I instead plan to study bioengineering at Yale.
	Vivek P. Buch Little Rock, AR Mills University Studies High School College/College Plans: Brown University   “Carpe diem.” This is an old Latin phrase that means, “Seize the day.” Ever since my sister passed away, I have taken on this “seize the day” attitude towards life. Academics have always been a priority for me and I have always strived to be the best; however, I am not the type to just sit around and study all day. I am a very avid athlete and musician, and I love to spend time with my friends. I have played competitive soccer since I was four years old, and am going to play for Brown. I play a variety of musical instruments also, but the main instruments I play are guitar and drums. I plan on studying neurology at Brown and hope to open my own clinic. I am also very interested in politics, and have aspirations of possibly running for President of the United States one day.
	Nick E. Burjek Downers Grove, IL Benet Academy College/College Plans: Vanderbilt University   I enjoy a full day. I am President of Latin Club, Treasurer of National Honors Society, and Student Government Senior Class Representative. I played four years of football and work on the school newspaper. This year I starred in a movie for my school’s film festival, was elected to Homecoming Court, and was a contestant in Benet’s “Mr. Redwing” competition. I also play intramural volleyball and participate in numerous community service projects. When I’m at home, I like to play the guitar. I am a huge music lover, and go to many concerts. Last summer, I worked in a lab at University of Chicago researching Crohn’s Disease and Colitis, and went to football practice on days when I wasn’t at the lab. My future plans include studying biomedical engineering and going on to medical school.
	Nigel R. Campbell Bronx, LaGuardia High School of Music, Art, and Performing Arts College/College Plans: The Juilliard School   There is no doubt in my mind that I want to be a great dancer. I strongly believe that dance can take you to an internal place words cannot reach. It grants a deeper understanding of the soul no language can express. When I perform, the passion takes over me. I forget about everything else and lose myself in the moment. For me, dance is about power, passion and intensity. It’s about life. It’s about telling a story and above all reaching people. If the audience can’t feel my love of what I do when I’m performing, then all the technique and high legs in the world wouldn’t matter. If the audience doesn’t believe it, then to me, it simply doesn’t matter. I set high standards for myself and expect to achieve them. My best yesterday shouldn’t be my best today, and my best today isn’t going to be my best ten years from now. Dance is my voice. It allows me to scream out to the world without making a sound, yet somehow, people always get my point.
	David A. Carpenter Great Neck, NY John L. Miller-Great Neck North High School College/College Plans: Princeton University   David began his studies on the violin at age six and viola at age twelve. He graduated as a double major from the Juilliard School Pre-College Division and has won numerous awards and international competitions including Level I in NFAA’s Arts Recognition and Talent Search for Music/Viola, the Juilliard Concerto Competition, and First Prize in the Verbier Festival Academy in Switzerland. This past March, David made his Carnegie Hall Debut as Soloist with the Great Neck North Symphony Orchestra. In addition to performing, he has been President of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and Chamber Music Society for the past two years. David is an AP Scholar with Distinction and was recently awarded the First Place Dartmouth Award for Excellence in Writing. He has also participated in Princeton Model Congress, and is a peer-leader in academics and music. While David intends on pursuing politics and finance at Princeton University, he will continue his musical training.
	Cari E. Carson Granger, IN Penn High School College/College Plans: Yale University   I am defined by my passions. My main passion lies in helping others realize their potential. Because of this, I volunteer with special needs students and lead the Student of the Month committee, which aims to recognize students' potential. Another of my passions is learning. While this may sound cliché, I truly enjoy debating the themes of a literary work for the sake of exchanging ideas, and learning about neuroscience for the joy of spontaneous learning. During high school, I also developed a passion for music and currently play the violin in two orchestras and a quartet. I believe that passion must be paired with compassion if it is to mature. Regardless of my grandiose plans for playing violin soulfully, learning about (nearly) everything under the sun, and interacting with special needs kids, it is my primary goal to spread the Lord's love in all I do.
	Avery A. Cavanah Honolulu, HI Punahou School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Pouncing on every chance to travel afar, my goal is to develop a truly global perspective. I met the great minds in Greece and Italy with my Latin Club, flew 10 hours Down Under with my water polo team, risked my life on every car ride to our build site in Trinidad with Habitat for Humanity, and camped out in Mexico while building a house with my church. Last summer, I independently studied in Spain for a month, living with a family and walking to classes everyday. Returning to Hawaii I extended a layover at Heathrow into a week at a YMCA and a trip to nearly every museum on the London map. While an intense curriculum has prepared me academically, life experiences have developed my independence, resourcefulness and determination. I plan to follow my interests into a field that will help create educational opportunities at every longitude.
	Max E. Chavez Kensington, MD Albert Einstein High School College/College Plans: Undecided   First of all I want to state that I have a hearing disability. When I was little I developed an ear infection that damaged my ear canals. I remember having to be in DHOH, a deaf and hard of hearing program, throughout elementary school and middle school. I feel as though that put me at a disadvantage in life from the start. Having to deal with wearing special hearing aids was embarrassing for me. I got stared at a lot a school. I felt different most of my life. That is why I always kept to myself. This has really influenced my paintings because I try to make an object that is unnoticed and simple into one that has great impact. I am expressing who I am inside through my paintings. I am also proud to be Hispanic-- proud to be one of the few Hispanics who are recognized in the visual arts. I want to be an example for those Hispanics who aspire to be artists like me.
	Amy Chen Westport, CT Staples High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   An accomplished scholar, Amy is not one to let opportunities pass her by. She has exhausted her high school’s advanced classes and looks forward to the new supply of interesting courses that college will offer. Amy has an eclectic and undiscriminating taste in knowledge, covering everything from the history of the Medieval Ages to string theory to Spanish. She can also be found playing the violin in numerous orchestras and ensembles, volunteering in her community, and planning events as a club president. She has juggled her extracurricular activities with a job and babysitting her one-year-old sister. Although unsure of her career plans, Amy is leaning towards medicine, but can as easily see herself as a professor, physicist, or businesswoman.
	Cynthia A. Chi Sugar Land, TX William P. Clements High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Throughout my life so many different things have interested me and sparked my curiosity. At an early age, I found my love for mathematics by adding and subtracting on my toes. During elementary school, I enjoyed swimming and playing the piano. In middle school I took up playing the cello and also became very involved in mathematics competitions. In high school, I conducted research in various disciplines, including math, microbiology, computer science, and physics. During this time I also started volunteering at a cancer hospital and undertook a project compiling a guide for families with mentally disabled children. All of my experiences and passions have molded me into a caring, friendly, and hardworking person who loves a challenge.
	Kristen L. Chopra Wichita, KS Independent High School College/College Plans: Washington University in St. Louis   After jumping from eighth grade to freshman year in October of 2000, Kristen quickly proved herself the embodiment of her school’s independent spirit. She founded and presided over the Lincoln-Douglas debate team and the National Forensic League chapter, and also co-founded the Latin Club and AP Latin program. She coached all of her debaters to the state tournament all four years. In 2003, she went undefeated to finals, becoming state runner-up as well as an alternate to NFL nationals. She also captained the speech, policy debate, student congress, quiz bowl, Science Olympiad, and math teams, earning many medals and state qualifications. Meanwhile, she managed to independently study four AP courses, earning 4s and 5s on the exams—without a teacher. At seventeen, she looks forwards to continuing leading herself and others as she pursues both a BA and a BFA, with majors in international relations, philosophy, and design.
	Felipe Chor Miami, FL Coral Reef Senior High School College/College Plans: University of Chicago   I wonder if any college offers courses in autobiography. I could use one-- college applications might be finished but someday I will need to write résumés. Now would “An Introduction to Autobiography” be under the English Department or something like History or Psychology? There might be “Autobiography, Alternative Styles of” as an elective in a Creative Writing program, or “Autobiography, Society’s Need and the Subconscious Dread of” in a semester of Psychology… Felipe thoroughly detests writing about himself. He would rather go off on as many tangents as possible than write the simplest of autobiographies. When not tangenting, Felipe does many things he does not particularly enjoy (wake up to go to school, go to school…) and a few things he does enjoy (learn independently outside of school; play saxophone, clarinet, and tennis; make up new words…). In college he plans to study physics and possibly creative writing.
	Spencer S. Chu Overland Park, KS Blue Valley North High School College/College Plans: Princeton University   As a Chinese-born, Egyptian-raised American, Spencer strives to be a multicultural citizen of the world. Raised overseas in Cairo, Egypt, Spencer developed a love for global cultures, from their unique languages, customs, and tastes, and hopes someday to have the opportunity to travel or study abroad. Among his other interests are mathematics, music, and sarcasm. Spencer juggles his time between playing in a string quartet nicknamed “The Indecisives” and the Kansas City Youth Symphony’s Symphony Orchestra, plowing through homework while trying to resist the temptations of online chatter, bantering with friends over ice cream, and napping. At times, Spencer may be a violinist, a procrastinator, an engineer, or a sleeping log, but he will always be a little brother - the youngest of “The 4 Chu Brothers.”
	Hailey H. Clark Cary, NC Cary High School College/College Plans: The University of Maryland   Hailey is a lyric soprano with a passion for singing classical music and a major sweet tooth. She enjoys performing in recitals and musicals and made her operatic debut in Humperdink's Hansel and Gretel. She has been identified by the Opera Company of NC as a "special talent," and was a Level 1 Finalist for the NFAA in 2004. Advancing in singing and arts competitions at the state, regional, and national levels has introduced the extrovert to many talented young artists and mentors. When she's off stage, Hailey enjoys traveling and is looking forward to exploring new places through a career in singing. She served as an officer on her school's Student Council for four years to encourage community involvement within the student body, and has learned some interesting and valuable skills working at a florist’s shop and a retirement home.
	Chase S. Correia Reno, NV Galena High School College/College Plans: Yale University   I have three passions in life. I love sports, I am devoted to helping people, and I am a science geek at heart. I run Cross Country and Track in high school, but my favorite sports are Ultimate Frisbee, Hiking, and Paintball. I volunteer my time at the Veteran's Hospital, the local library, the Reno Youth City Council, and through various mission trips with my church. I "geek it up" in science through the Science Bowl Team, internships in cancer research, and even spending three weeks at a summer science program at Clark University! I have planned to go into the field of orthopedic surgery ever since I had an internship with an orthopedic surgeon and discovered that it combined my three largest passions into one perfectly suited career.
	Matthew J. Craig Cedar Rapids, IA Linn-Mar High School College/College Plans: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill   More than anything else in my life, leadership activities have defined who I am. In my high school, I was involved in student government, drug-free activities, and a diversity group. I also enjoyed being a part of swim team, cross-country, and show choir. I have also been very involved in a video production business that I established. During my senior year, I founded Key Club and co-founded Spanish Club at my high school. My most important activities have been those that allow me to give back. Inspired by an experience in Washington, D.C., I found a unique way to do that. In 2002, I began the Inspirational Magnets Book Project – an effort to raise $40,000 for leadership workshops through the sale of a self-published book. Through attendance at various leadership conferences, I have discovered my passion for helping others. All these experiences together have prepared me for a promising and service-oriented life.
	Yang Dai Little Rock, AR Little Rock Central High School College/College Plans: Princeton University   I've wanted to be good at everything ever since I was very little. I was always told that I wasn't the best or the brightest because I was slow at completing assignments and such, but the tortoise won the race, and I am accomplishing my goals. I've been to national and international competitions for math and science, and even though I haven't placed at them, the experiences have been extremely influential. I'm a complete bookworm when I have the time to cuddle up with good books, and outside of academics, I'm interested in visual art, piano, and dance. I've attended various academic summer camps, like Canada/USA Mathcamp, and I hate having nothing to do. My schedule is always packed with activities, and there's never a dull moment in my life.
	Chanel M. DaSilva Brooklyn, NY LaGuardia High School of Music, Art, and Performing Arts College/College Plans: The Juilliard School   Chanel is a native New Yorker and was born and raised in Brooklyn. Since the age of four, she has always dreamed of becoming a professional dancer. When dance became more than just a hobby for her, she realized it was her destiny to dance. Now, at the age of eighteen, her dreams are quickly becoming a lovely reality. Her training comes from the Creative Outlet Dance Theater of Brooklyn and she owes most of her success to Jamel Gaines. Chanel has also trained at the Ailey School on scholarship. Along with performing for Michael Jackson and Savion Glover, Chanel has performed Alvin Ailey’s “Revelations” with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. “Dance is my love, my heart, and my passion. Life is a journey I can only live once, and dance makes my journey worthwhile!”
	Kelly J. Deutsch Florence, SD Watertown High School College/College Plans: Franciscan University   I have a million interests, dreams, and desires; it is only through some miracle that I will ever be able to sort them out. I want to be everyone and do everything-- I can't decide if I want to be a theoretical astrophysicist or an English teacher. I could be a photographer, where I can immortalize moments in time and in turn allow others to peek undetected into the history of Beauty itself. I want to be a Mother Teresa or maybe simply a trusted friend in whom everyone can confide; I want to restore dignity to those who feel they have none and learn to better serve everyone with my whole heart. I want to be a world traveler, musician, actress, volunteer, lover of life, singer in the shower, curious wonderer, searching wanderer, and student. I want to spend my life uncovering Beauty.
	Jaime O. Diaz San Juan, PR Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola College/College Plans: Massachusetts Institute of Technology   Jaime Oscar Díaz Villamil, born in San Juan in 1986, spent much of his early years with his grandmother, who is, with his mother and sister, one of the most inspiring figures in his life. The product of Catholic teaching, since elementary school he has cultivated Christian values and a successful academic career. The Jesuit teaching system at his high school has shaped his personality, values, and community service. Extracurricular activities include piano (played from age 8 until high school), soccer, baseball (which he has played since age 5), Math Competitions Club, Víspera literary magazine, French Exchange Program, and Science Fair. Honors include participating in the NHS, International Soccer Federation’s School Championship 2001 in Italy, NASA SHARP Plus 2002 Program, and the 2003 and 2004 International Mathematics Olympiads in Tokyo and Athens. Jaime will study Electrical Engineering at MIT, a dream inspired by his sister’s acceptance there three years ago.
	Steven Michael Elliott Edmond, OK Edmond Santa Fe High School College/College Plans: Vanderbilt University   Vanderbilt University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Texas at Austin
	Lisette N. Enumah Columbus, GA Brookstone School College/College Plans: Harvard College   Lisette couldn't tell you where she'll be ten years from now because she enjoys doing so many different things. She has played piano since age four and has always experimented with creative activities. She has also enjoyed involvement in all levels of athletics, from recreation in elementary and middle school to varsity Cross Country, basketball, and track in high school. One major focus throughout her high school career has been in leadership roles. She was president of her class for two years, secretary/treasurer of the student body during her junior year, and president of the student body her senior year. Outside of school, her passion lies in cooking, creative writing, and music (both listening to others and creating her own). She is most interested in pursuing a career in architecture, business, and/or educational administration and looks forward to broadening her educational horizons while studying in the university.
	Matthew Stuart Fasman New Rochelle, NY New Rochelle High School College/College Plans: Undecided   Matthew is an all around person. In addition to being a scholar, he is a musician and athlete, a leader, a researcher and a generous volunteer. As an athlete, Matthew is a member of the Varsity Cross Country, swim and track teams and captained the 2002 regional Water Polo team that won the silver medal at the New York Empire Games. As a member of the high school band and on his own, Matthew has performed with his trumpet at civic ceremonies, in his church, for the community and at high school events. He was an Intel Science Talent Search semifinalist for his research in graphs. His leadership roles have included being an Assistant Scoutmaster, Vice President of the National Honor Society and Captain of the Academic team. He volunteers at his church, with Habitat for Humanity, the Boy Scouts and the New Rochelle Youth Court. Matthew is a member of the French, Science and Math Honor Societies.
	Hayley Jade Fink St. Petersburg, FL St. Petersburg High School Int’l Baccalaureate Program College/College Plans: Princeton University   My goal is to one day become a United States Senator. I was bitten by the political bug several years ago when I was appointed to our Board of County Commissioners’ Youth Advisory Committee. My peers on this committee elected me to serve as their representative to the county Park Board, where I vote on issues that directly affect our park system. I have also traveled to Tallahassee several times with the Youth Advisory Committee to lobby for a bill we authored that mandates voter education in schools in an attempt to fight youth political apathy. Recently I founded a political club at my school to further youth interest in the political process. It is imperative for my generation to take an active role in our democracy and future.
	Margaret M. Fitchet Bethesda, MD Holton Arms School College/College Plans: Dartmouth College   Ever since the beginning of my elementary school days I have had two main passions: a strong intellectual curiosity and a love of athletics. My enjoyment of learning has been reflected in my academic achievements throughout my school career. Besides maintaining a 4.0 GPA, I was elected to the Cum Laude National Honor Society, received the Bausch & Lomb National Science Award, and was named a National Merit Scholar. My favorite hobbies could be considered intellectual as well; I love reading, writing, and making pottery. My favorite sport is tennis, which I started at age 8. By 12, I was competing on the National Junior circuit, which I have continued up to the present day. I have held a USTA Mid-Atlantic Sectional Ranking as high as #1 and a National Ranking of #48. Excelling at a high level in both of these endeavors has been very satisfying to me and I am looking forward to continuing them at Dartmouth.
	Katherine R. Forscey Washington, DC Georgetown Day High School College/College Plans: University of Virginia   I am an energetic and adventurous artist and scholar. Outside of my studies, my favorites of which are English (especially writing), Psychology, and Molecular Biology, I love to create, be it drawings, paintings, or piano music. I spend a great deal of time drawing from life or sketching caricatures of my friends. An outgoing person, I volunteered as a helper and friend to the elderly at IONA Senior Services. I am always working to improve my Spanish, and two summers ago, I spent five weeks in Segovia, where I lived with a family, took classes, and explored the culture. Last summer, I interned for U.S. Senator Wyden of Oregon. I love to sample whatever comes my way, be it scubadiving, carpentry, or cooking classes. I like to spend my free time hiking, bouldering, skiing, and reading, as well as traveling whenever I can. I am looking forward to pursuing a broad liberal arts program at UVA, with a focus on writing and pre-law studies.
	Gabriel M. Fries-Briggs Albuquerque, NM Albuquerque High School College/College Plans: Columbia University   Growing up in a medium-sized town like Albuquerque doesn’t just encourage creativity, it demands it. So while many people mope around on a weekend night, I just have to go consult my list of anti-boredom activities, check one off, and I’ll be occupied for hours. My parents have come to accept seeing me out at night rearranging the marquee at McDonald’s or rock climbing the city’s water tank (harness and all)—because really, it’s all about not growing up too fast and enjoying yourself. One way in which I try hard to accomplish both of these goals is by turning all of my childhood passions into slightly more complicated adult versions of the same activity. For example, when I was a little kid I couldn’t keep myself out of the kitchen. The only think I liked more than eating was cooking, so I’m now a full time line chef in one of Albuquerque’s best restaurants. Again, when I was young I always hated having my picture taken, so now I’m an avid photographer, always on the right side of the camera. Also, as a kid I loved to climb trees…no wait, I still do that.
	Bronwyn N. Fullard Hoover, AL Hoover High School College/College Plans: University of Notre Dame or Greyfriars Hall, Oxford University   Strong faith, commitment to others, and love of learning drive me. Faith defines my choices and life, leading me to join retreat teams, perform onstage for 6,000 people, and spend Christmas break helping at a Carmelite Retreat House. I love traveling and immersing myself in the culture and history of other regions. I abhor feeling nonproductive, and multitask when possible: while rolling silverware at Outback Steakhouse, I read an article; while exercising, I write music. Sports are another outlet: I play volleyball and soccer, sometimes running 8 miles after practice. As the only female in my flag football league, I've taught the guys that females can play hard too. People find my random knowledge and quirky behaviors intriguing, which allows me to spread joy. While work, sports, and travel provide adventure, nothing fulfills me more than serving others, touching hearts, sparking faith, and building trust. The world may not remember me, but it will not remain unchanged.
	Megan E. Galbreth Chattanooga, TN Girls Preparatory School College/College Plans: Harvard College   I thrive on challenges. Although I’m not planning on entering a technical field, I’m an avid student of math; I take advanced calculus courses and lead my school’s math contest team simply because I like the challenge of solving complex problems and understanding abstract concepts. I find a completely different kind of challenge in my work as the editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, where I’m always trying to make the paper a more effective and more powerful voice for the student body. As a cellist, I am constantly challenged to improve my skills, but technical ability is not my sole focus. I truly enjoy the connection that music brings between me, my fellow musicians, and the audience, so I’m always striving to communicate my passion for music through my playing. I seek challenges because they show me what I’m capable of, and I love the satisfaction that comes from achieving my full potential.
	Joseph C. Garand Pasadena, CA Polytechnic High School College/College Plans: Harvey Mudd College or Duke University   I was adopted at birth into a wonderful, loving family. Despite the efforts of my Type A parents to the contrary, I have become far more laid back than most of my peers, always taking life as it comes, rarely stressing about anything. As the wise sage Mickey Rivers once said, “Ain't no sense worrying about the things you got control over 'cause if you got control over 'em, ain't no sense worrying. Ain't no sense worrying about the things you got no control over 'cause if you got no control over 'em, ain't no sense worrying.” Certainly, I’ve done my share of impressive things. From academics, to tutoring, to lifeguarding, to swimming, to working with computers, I have always put forth my best effort and have been quite successful while still maintaining a balanced life and trying to have fun along the way. After all, you’re only young once.
	Amaryllis C. Gonzalez Trujillo Alto, PR Baldwin School of Puerto Rico College/College Plans: Carnegie Mellon University   Growing up as the daughter of an army officer, many things could change quickly. My home, school, location--even country-- could change from one year to the next. I learned to adapt quickly and to care for people independent of age, race, or gender, without exceptions. I also learned to be strong. All these are qualities that together have made me who I am today. I have always been deeply interested in biology and have never doubted that my future lay within this field. I have strived to develop and tone my interest, particularly in the field of genetics, as much as possible. I get along well with most people and have developed a strong character that has helped me define myself. Living in Puerto Rico for the past ten years has helped me develop my language and culture while at the same time giving me a great love for my people and my country.
	Joseph D. Goodell Boise, Centennial High School College/College Plans: University of Pennsylvania   I've always been interested in learning new things. My problem was, practically everything seemed interesting to me. From black holes to ancient Egypt, from Latin to calculus, I liked learning. When I reached high school I found an activity that would help me continue to study a wide variety of topics. I joined our school's Academic Decathlon team. We must study 7 subjects and give a speech and interview, as well as write an essay. My junior year I was co-captain and helped lead our team to win state and compete at Nationals. This year we also won state, and Nationals were in my hometown of Boise. I won two medals and was high scorer for Idaho. I also enjoy sports. I play tennis competitively, snow ski and study martial arts. As an Eagle Scout I participate in camping and rock-climbing. I am a lifeguard at my YMCA.
	Nathan R. Goodell Bangor, ME Bangor High School College/College Plans: Cornell University   I am considered an intelligent person who excels in academic competitions. My SAT score, a 1600, was the only perfect score in the state of Maine last year. My academic interests are in engineering and physics. I am also highly competitive in soccer and in track. Some of the academic teams I have competed on this year include: The Science Bowl Team (1st in state); Math Team (1st in state); Academic Decathlon (3rd in state); and TEAMS (1st in state, national results pending). I was Captain of both my math team and my Junior Engineering & Technology team. In soccer I have been selected for the national Olympic Development Program for four years as a Maine representative. In track I advanced to competition in the New England Indoor Track and Field competition. My previous employment includes work in a university Mechanical Engineering laboratory.
	Arielle R. Gorin Eagle, ID The Micah Home School College/College Plans: Kenyon College or Princeton University   Mystics were disdained in 2104, but Elleira visited the old woman anyway. She had to know. "Tell me if the legends are true," she hissed. The clairvoyant closed her eyes. "I see a dark bedroom, lit by a single lamp. A redhaired young woman, reading a dog-eared copy of Pride and Prejudice. The image is fading...now she's sitting on a porch swing, lost in thought...wait! She has a notebook-- she's writing, scribbling furiously. I can't read her handwriting; it's terrible. The girl is surrounded by a stack of books now. Dark outside. She's punching numbers into her calculator and muttering. Ah, I can read her lips: 'Test tomorrow. Why'd I wait so long?'" "That's it!" cried Elleira; then the horror of it struck her. "So the legends are true," she murmured. "I can't believe it. My ancestor, Arielle Gorin, the writer, thinker, political theorist was…" --she could hardly bring herself to say it-- "a procrastinator!"
	Gregory R. Gysberg Great Falls, MT Charles M. Russell High School College/College Plans: University of Nebraska – Lincoln   Greg excels at everything he puts his mind to. Greg is a National Merit Finalist. His greatest love in school is math. He intends to pursue a career in actuarial science. His basketball team won the state championship. Greg was co-captain and won the “Most Inspirational” award. He also played in the state tennis championships two years in a row. Greg sings bass in the school’s top choir and plays piano for fun. Greg has been involved in student government throughout high school and is the senior class president. He is a board member for the National Honor Society. Greg loves working with youth, whether as a coach for basketball camps, a mentor for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, or helping in his church’s AWANA program. He is also active in KEY Club, church youth group, and Montana Behavioral Initiative. In his spare time he enjoys reading, hiking, and running.
	Bradford S. Hargreaves Shreveport, LA Caddo Parish Magnet High School College/College Plans: Yale University   Philosophy, science, and an intense love of learning play large roles in Brad’s life. He is also extremely involved in academic competitions. Last year, Brad was awarded a medal at the USA Biology Olympiad, placing him in the top 12 biology students in the country. He has also won four medals at National Academic Decathlon and won National Academic Decathlon Speech Showcase. Brad has completed research on prostate cancer and become a Siemens Westinghouse Semifinalist for his efforts. He has several prominent leadership roles in school and community organizations, such as Philosophy Club and Key Club. Brad enjoys reading, writing, looking at maps, and engaging in deep philosophical conversations.
	Nicole M. Hartfield Tigard, OR Tigard High School College/College Plans: Stanford University   Nicole is the president of the Tigard Awareness Coalition, a liberal activism group. She has played with the Tigard High Ultimate Frisbee team for two years. She is a member of National Honor Society and secretary of Future Business Leaders of America. She organized a backpack drive for the local homeless shelter and a red ribbon sale for a local AIDS organization. This year she won a Tigard High School Human Rights Award and was a National Merit Finalist. She plans to attend Stanford University next year and major in mathematics and Spanish and perhaps will study abroad.
	Sarah A. Hennagin Casper, WY Natrona County High School College/College Plans: Whitworth College   "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." -1 Corinthians 13:13. This verse (my senior quote) explains a lot about me, since these three values motivate me in every aspect of my life. My faith in Jesus Christ is what gets me through each day and gives me a positive attitude. My hope for the future is what encourages me to be involved in my school and my community through music, academics, athletics, and service. Love for life in general has given me a sense of humor and an enjoyment of everything I do, and love for other people, especially young people, is driving me now to pursue my dream of becoming a youth minister.
	James C. Hill Spokane, WA Saint George's School College/College Plans: Massachusetts Institute of Technology   Since I was young, I have always longed to learn the deepest secrets of the universe around me. In particular, my outlook on the world was significantly enlightened in eighth grade when I read Hyperspace, an exploration of modern theoretical physics. This book provoked me to pursue the fields of physics and mathematics, and to broaden my knowledge of the world as a whole. Accomplishing these goals led to many accolades, including three consecutive state Knowledge Bowl championships, first place in the statewide “Math is Cool Masters” competition, nine published solutions in the School Science and Mathematics Journal, and two articles currently pending editorial review at The College Mathematics Journal. Nevertheless, I still believe that my journey is only just beginning, and I am anxious to truly explore the universe’s most profound mysteries in the coming years as a Physics major at MIT.
	Miriam R. Hinman Seattle, WA James A. Garfield High School College/College Plans: Harvard College   People often ask me why I push myself so hard. What they fail to understand is that I am simply pouring energy into pursuits I love. Those who look at me askance for spending free time on math and Latin competition have not experienced the excitement of challenging the mind to think harder. Those who view a summer spent working as a chemistry lab intern as a summer wasted on school do not realize that in fact it is a precious opportunity to probe questions that are never answered at school. My passions have led me to spend delightful hours learning just for fun and competing in numerous academic competitions, but I also find joy in non-academic pursuits. I play harp in my school’s award winning orchestra, as well as actively pursuing Jewish studies and participating in my school’s chapter of Amnesty International. My dream is to become an archaeologist.
	Kimberly Nhu-Mai Hoang Palm Bay, FL Palm Bay High School College/College Plans: University of Miami Honors Program in Medicine   If the Energizer Bunny and James Bond were to selectively breed, I would be their progeny. I delight in a highpaced life, freeing my schedule only to manage one breath of success between being a scholar, tennis athlete, and violin player. I am no stranger to the needy or to the intellectually disadvantaged. I inspire others in the midst of canned food drives, park clean-ups, and election campaigns. Before school I mentor third graders in reading. After school I wait tables to save for college expenses. Volunteering at the hospital furnishes my desire to pursue a career in medicine. Yet, my numerous leadership positions and national chemistry awards do not deter me from my two passions: scrapbooking and spending time with family.
	Destin L. Hodges Bedford, WY Star Valley High School College/College Plans: New York University   For me, it is all about the rest of the world. Everything I have done for the last couple of years and everything I do now has been so that I may better experience the rest of the world and partake of its many offerings. To better integrate into the global community, I have studied Spanish, French, German, and Russian, and I have plans to continue my language learning into college. One day I aim to work as a translator, interpreter, or diplomat for the United Nations. Besides focusing on the global, I like to take time for myself. I especially love to paint and have done a number of oil paintings. I might not have a gift worthy of much praise, but I love the opportunities that painting provides to unwind and express myself.

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